West Chester, IA
Population 168 · Iowa
About West Chester, IA
West Chester is a small community located in Iowa with a population of 168 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,750 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 28.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in West Chester features a median home value of $73,800, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. This makes West Chester one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $718, 38% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 67 total housing units, 87% are owner-occupied (58 units) and 13% are renter-occupied (9 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Chester shows an unemployment rate of 17.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 28.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in West Chester have an average one-way commute time of 22.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.7% of West Chester residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 8.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 0.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Chester, IA
Compared to national averages, West Chester has a median household income of $49,750 (34% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $73,800, which is 70% below the national median. Monthly rent at $718 is 38% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, West Chester's income is 27% below the state average of $67,947, and home values are 44% below the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in West Chester, IA?
West Chester offers affordable housing with a median home value of $73,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $718/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,750) that falls below the national average. However, West Chester’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Chester has a population of 168 with a median age of 28.5 years. Compare West Chester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near West Chester
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare West Chester With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Chester
What is the population of West Chester, IA?
The population of West Chester, IA is 168 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Iowa.
What is the median household income in West Chester?
The median household income in West Chester, IA is $49,750 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Chester?
The median home value in West Chester, IA is $73,800, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Chester?
The median monthly rent in West Chester, IA is $718, which is 38% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Chester?
The unemployment rate in West Chester, IA is 17.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Chester, IA a good place to live?
West Chester offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 168 and a median age of 28.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is West Chester, IA?
14.7% of residents in West Chester aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in West Chester?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Chester, IA: median home value is $73,800 (70% below national), median rent is $718/month, and median household income is $49,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Chester?
The poverty rate in West Chester, IA is 28.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is West Chester, IA?
West Chester's population is 0.0% White, 8.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.6% of residents are foreign-born.