West Van Lear, KY
Population 1,224 · Kentucky
About West Van Lear, KY
West Van Lear is a small town located in Kentucky with a population of 1,224 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $78,625 per year, which is 5% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29.8 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 Van Lear features a median home value of $131,100, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. This makes West Van Lear one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 512 total housing units, 96% are owner-occupied (450 units) and 4% are renter-occupied (17 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Van Lear shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 2.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in West Van Lear have an average one-way commute time of 27.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.1% of West Van Lear 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, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 2.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Van Lear, KY
Compared to national averages, West Van Lear has a median household income of $78,625 (5% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $131,100, which is 46% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kentucky, West Van Lear's income is 19% above the state average of $66,273, and home values are 28% below the state median of $182,504.
Why Live in West Van Lear, KY?
West Van Lear offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $78,625, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $131,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%, and a low poverty rate of 2.9%, better than the national average.
West Van Lear has a population of 1,224 with a median age of 29.8 years. Compare West Van Lear with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kentucky.
Similar Cities Near West Van Lear
Cities in Kentucky with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawesville | 1,221 | $51,898 | $151,100 | Compare |
| Barbourmeade | 1,208 | $109,800 | $360,700 | Compare |
| Clinton | 1,246 | $32,991 | $48,700 | Compare |
| Bellefonte | 1,251 | $114,063 | $278,800 | Compare |
| Verona | 1,196 | $121,250 | $331,100 | Compare |
| Wurtland | 1,257 | $56,250 | $84,100 | Compare |
| Hebron Estates | 1,262 | $57,375 | $268,800 | Compare |
| Cloverport | 1,264 | $34,688 | $84,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Kentucky
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare West Van Lear With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Van Lear
What is the population of West Van Lear, KY?
The population of West Van Lear, KY is 1,224 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Kentucky.
What is the median household income in West Van Lear?
The median household income in West Van Lear, KY is $78,625 per year, which is 5% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Van Lear?
The median home value in West Van Lear, KY is $131,100, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Van Lear?
The median monthly rent in West Van Lear, KY is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Van Lear?
The unemployment rate in West Van Lear, KY is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is West Van Lear, KY a good place to live?
West Van Lear offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,224 and a median age of 29.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is West Van Lear, KY?
20.1% of residents in West Van Lear 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 Van Lear?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Van Lear, KY: median home value is $131,100 (46% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $78,625. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Van Lear?
The poverty rate in West Van Lear, KY is 2.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is West Van Lear, KY?
West Van Lear's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.2% of residents are foreign-born.