West Ocean City, MD
Population 5,124 · Maryland
About West Ocean City, MD
West Ocean City is a small town located in Maryland with a population of 5,124 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $93,776 per year, which is 25% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49.3 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in West Ocean City features a median home value of $418,700, which is 71% above the national median of $244,900. This places West Ocean City in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,546, 33% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,144 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (1,691 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (544 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Ocean City shows an unemployment rate of 9.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 8.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in West Ocean City have an average one-way commute time of 18.8 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
35.1% of West Ocean City residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 1.7% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 3.6% Asian residents, with 5.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Ocean City, MD
Compared to national averages, West Ocean City has a median household income of $93,776 (25% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $418,700, which is 71% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,546 is 33% above the US average of $1,163. Within Maryland, West Ocean City's income is 13% below the state average of $107,956, and home values are 4% above the state median of $402,447.
Why Live in West Ocean City, MD?
West Ocean City offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $93,776, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 35.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 8.8%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 18.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $418,700. However, West Ocean City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Ocean City has a population of 5,124 with a median age of 49.3 years. Compare West Ocean City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Maryland.
Similar Cities Near West Ocean City
Cities in Maryland with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hampton | 5,138 | $171,969 | $592,700 | Compare |
| Middletown | 5,108 | $159,342 | $545,100 | Compare |
| Berlin | 5,161 | $78,883 | $345,100 | Compare |
| Silver Hill | 5,068 | $61,566 | $283,900 | Compare |
| Deale | 5,182 | $123,176 | $407,400 | Compare |
| Cresaptown | 5,238 | $53,804 | $148,400 | Compare |
| Peppermill Village | 5,268 | $89,375 | $331,400 | Compare |
| Hillandale | 4,901 | $159,118 | $509,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Maryland
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare West Ocean City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Ocean City
What is the population of West Ocean City, MD?
The population of West Ocean City, MD is 5,124 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Maryland.
What is the median household income in West Ocean City?
The median household income in West Ocean City, MD is $93,776 per year, which is 25% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Ocean City?
The median home value in West Ocean City, MD is $418,700, which is 71% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Ocean City?
The median monthly rent in West Ocean City, MD is $1,546, which is 33% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Ocean City?
The unemployment rate in West Ocean City, MD is 9.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Ocean City, MD a good place to live?
West Ocean City offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 5,124 and a median age of 49.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is West Ocean City, MD?
35.1% of residents in West Ocean City aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in West Ocean City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Ocean City, MD: median home value is $418,700 (71% above national), median rent is $1,546/month, and median household income is $93,776. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in West Ocean City?
The poverty rate in West Ocean City, MD is 8.8%, 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 Ocean City, MD?
West Ocean City's population is 1.7% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 3.6% Asian, and 4.6% two or more races. 5.0% of residents are foreign-born.