West Reading, PA
Population 4,537 · Pennsylvania
About West Reading, PA
West Reading is a small town located in Pennsylvania with a population of 4,537 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $61,974 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.9 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 Reading features a median home value of $159,700, which is 35% below the national median of $244,900. This positions West Reading in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,159, 0% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,743 total housing units, 54% are owner-occupied (907 units) and 46% are renter-occupied (759 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Reading shows an unemployment rate of 4.6%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 17.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in West Reading have an average one-way commute time of 22.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
33.3% of West Reading 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 6.4% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 21.8% Black or African American, and 4.3% Asian residents, with 4.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Reading, PA
Compared to national averages, West Reading has a median household income of $61,974 (18% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $159,700, which is 35% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,159 is 0% below the US average of $1,163. Within Pennsylvania, West Reading's income is 16% below the state average of $73,376, and home values are 16% below the state median of $190,903.
Why Live in West Reading, PA?
West Reading offers affordable housing with a median home value of $159,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,159/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($61,974) that falls below the national average. However, West Reading’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Reading has a population of 4,537 with a median age of 34.9 years. Compare West Reading with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Pennsylvania.
Similar Cities Near West Reading
Cities in Pennsylvania with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Donora | 4,536 | $42,851 | $57,700 | Compare |
| Jim Thorpe | 4,534 | $70,625 | $177,400 | Compare |
| Paxtonia | 4,530 | $100,573 | $240,400 | Compare |
| Sellersville | 4,545 | $88,516 | $304,700 | Compare |
| Hummelstown | 4,526 | $53,148 | $240,200 | Compare |
| Jessup | 4,506 | $61,174 | $170,000 | Compare |
| East Petersburg | 4,575 | $86,614 | $248,100 | Compare |
| Narberth | 4,482 | $119,863 | $671,100 | 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 Reading With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Reading
What is the population of West Reading, PA?
The population of West Reading, PA is 4,537 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Pennsylvania.
What is the median household income in West Reading?
The median household income in West Reading, PA is $61,974 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Reading?
The median home value in West Reading, PA is $159,700, which is 35% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Reading?
The median monthly rent in West Reading, PA is $1,159, which is 0% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Reading?
The unemployment rate in West Reading, PA is 4.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Reading, PA a good place to live?
West Reading offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,537 and a median age of 34.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is West Reading, PA?
33.3% of residents in West Reading 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 Reading?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Reading, PA: median home value is $159,700 (35% below national), median rent is $1,159/month, and median household income is $61,974. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Reading?
The poverty rate in West Reading, PA is 17.9%, 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 Reading, PA?
West Reading's population is 6.4% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 21.8% Black or African American, 4.3% Asian, and 4.6% two or more races. 4.5% of residents are foreign-born.