West Chester, PA
Population 19,235 · Pennsylvania
About West Chester, PA
West Chester is a mid-sized city located in Pennsylvania with a population of 19,235 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $81,492 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 24.8 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 Chester features a median home value of $481,300, which is 97% above the national median of $244,900. This places West Chester in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,661, 43% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 7,371 total housing units, 35% are owner-occupied (2,440 units) and 65% are renter-occupied (4,561 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Chester shows an unemployment rate of 7.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 18.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in West Chester have an average one-way commute time of 21.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
60.1% of West Chester 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 4.1% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 5.0% Black or African American, and 1.9% Asian residents, with 5.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How West Chester Ranks in Pennsylvania
Cost of Living in West Chester, PA
Compared to national averages, West Chester has a median household income of $81,492 (8% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $481,300, which is 97% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,661 is 43% above the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, West Chester's income is 11% above the state average of $73,376, and home values are 152% above the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in West Chester, PA?
West Chester offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,492, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 60.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 21.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $481,300. However, West Chester’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Chester has a population of 19,235 with a median age of 24.8 years. Compare West Chester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near West Chester
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Mifflin | 19,338 | $70,335 | $131,400 | Compare |
| Phoenixville | 19,062 | $94,411 | $348,200 | Compare |
| Lansdale | 18,865 | $86,460 | $319,000 | Compare |
| Johnstown | 18,245 | $34,784 | $42,100 | Compare |
| Colonial Park | 18,125 | $69,804 | $223,800 | Compare |
| Murrysville | 20,839 | $120,685 | $316,400 | Compare |
| McKeesport | 17,520 | $31,854 | $69,800 | Compare |
| Baldwin | 21,159 | $77,882 | $191,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Pennsylvania
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, PA?
The population of West Chester, PA is 19,235 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Pennsylvania.
What is the median household income in West Chester?
The median household income in West Chester, PA is $81,492 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Chester?
The median home value in West Chester, PA is $481,300, which is 97% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in West Chester?
The median monthly rent in West Chester, PA is $1,661, which is 43% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Chester?
The unemployment rate in West Chester, PA is 7.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Chester, PA a good place to live?
West Chester offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 19,235 and a median age of 24.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is West Chester, PA?
60.1% of residents in West Chester 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 Chester?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Chester, PA: median home value is $481,300 (97% above national), median rent is $1,661/month, and median household income is $81,492. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.9x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in West Chester?
The poverty rate in West Chester, PA is 18.3%, 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, PA?
West Chester's population is 4.1% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 5.0% Black or African American, 1.9% Asian, and 12.4% two or more races. 5.4% of residents are foreign-born.