West Elmira, NY
Population 4,691 · New York
About West Elmira, NY
West Elmira is a small town located in New York with a population of 4,691 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $107,359 per year, which is 43% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46.2 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 Elmira features a median home value of $192,900, which is 21% below the national median of $244,900. This positions West Elmira in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,435, 23% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,082 total housing units, 89% are owner-occupied (1,783 units) and 11% are renter-occupied (231 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Elmira shows an unemployment rate of 3.7%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 4.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in West Elmira have an average one-way commute time of 19.1 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
52.0% of West Elmira residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.6% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 3.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Elmira, NY
Compared to national averages, West Elmira has a median household income of $107,359 (43% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $192,900, which is 21% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,435 is 23% above the US average of $1,163. Within New York, West Elmira's income is 11% above the state average of $96,987, and home values are 50% below the state median of $387,181.
Why Live in West Elmira, NY?
West Elmira offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $107,359, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $192,900, below the US average of $244,900, and a well-educated community where 52.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 4.1%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 19.1 minutes.
West Elmira has a population of 4,691 with a median age of 46.2 years. Compare West Elmira with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New York.
Similar Cities Near West Elmira
Cities in New York with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manlius | 4,657 | $66,714 | $233,500 | Compare |
| Dansville | 4,731 | $57,500 | $105,800 | Compare |
| Montebello | 4,649 | $150,882 | $714,600 | Compare |
| Alfred | 4,632 | $45,357 | $169,100 | Compare |
| Blue Point | 4,622 | $148,684 | $607,300 | Compare |
| Noyack | 4,601 | $109,881 | $974,300 | Compare |
| Waterloo | 4,600 | $52,404 | $111,300 | Compare |
| Searingtown | 4,786 | $215,817 | $1,073,000 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in New York
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare West Elmira With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Elmira
What is the population of West Elmira, NY?
The population of West Elmira, NY is 4,691 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in New York.
What is the median household income in West Elmira?
The median household income in West Elmira, NY is $107,359 per year, which is 43% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Elmira?
The median home value in West Elmira, NY is $192,900, which is 21% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Elmira?
The median monthly rent in West Elmira, NY is $1,435, which is 23% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Elmira?
The unemployment rate in West Elmira, NY is 3.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Elmira, NY a good place to live?
West Elmira offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,691 and a median age of 46.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is West Elmira, NY?
52.0% of residents in West Elmira 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 Elmira?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Elmira, NY: median home value is $192,900 (21% below national), median rent is $1,435/month, and median household income is $107,359. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Elmira?
The poverty rate in West Elmira, NY is 4.1%, 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 Elmira, NY?
West Elmira's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.6% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 1.0% two or more races. 3.3% of residents are foreign-born.