West Brookfield, MA
Population 1,518 · Massachusetts
About West Brookfield, MA
West Brookfield is a small town located in Massachusetts with a population of 1,518 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $59,734 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 58.7 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 Brookfield features a median home value of $282,900, which is 16% above the national median of $244,900. This positions West Brookfield in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,081, 7% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 744 total housing units, 61% are owner-occupied (378 units) and 39% are renter-occupied (244 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Brookfield shows an unemployment rate of 9.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in West Brookfield have an average one-way commute time of 38.5 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
25.8% of West Brookfield 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 0.0% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.6% Black or African American, and 1.4% Asian residents, with 0.6% of the population being foreign-born.
How West Brookfield Ranks in Massachusetts
Cost of Living in West Brookfield, MA
Compared to national averages, West Brookfield has a median household income of $59,734 (21% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $282,900, which is 16% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,081 is 7% below the US average of $1,163. Within Massachusetts, West Brookfield's income is 43% below the state average of $105,630, and home values are 50% below the state median of $561,296.
Why Live in West Brookfield, MA?
West Brookfield offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,081/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,734) that falls below the national average. However, West Brookfield’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Brookfield has a population of 1,518 with a median age of 58.7 years. Compare West Brookfield with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Massachusetts.
Similar Cities Near West Brookfield
Cities in Massachusetts with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lee | 1,522 | $70,306 | $265,900 | Compare |
| Onset | 1,561 | $0 | $415,500 | Compare |
| Groton | 1,571 | $0 | $736,800 | Compare |
| Rowley | 1,576 | $106,250 | $615,500 | Compare |
| Chatham | 1,614 | $82,269 | $1,550,000 | Compare |
| Orleans | 1,618 | $76,768 | $542,500 | Compare |
| Duxbury | 1,620 | $126,750 | $1,386,200 | Compare |
| Harwich Center | 1,620 | $76,944 | $546,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Massachusetts
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare West Brookfield With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Brookfield
What is the population of West Brookfield, MA?
The population of West Brookfield, MA is 1,518 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Massachusetts.
What is the median household income in West Brookfield?
The median household income in West Brookfield, MA is $59,734 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Brookfield?
The median home value in West Brookfield, MA is $282,900, which is 16% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Brookfield?
The median monthly rent in West Brookfield, MA is $1,081, which is 7% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Brookfield?
The unemployment rate in West Brookfield, MA is 9.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Brookfield, MA a good place to live?
West Brookfield offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,518 and a median age of 58.7, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is West Brookfield, MA?
25.8% of residents in West Brookfield 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 Brookfield?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Brookfield, MA: median home value is $282,900 (16% above national), median rent is $1,081/month, and median household income is $59,734. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in West Brookfield?
The poverty rate in West Brookfield, MA is 14.5%, 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 Brookfield, MA?
West Brookfield's population is 0.0% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.6% Black or African American, 1.4% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.6% of residents are foreign-born.