West Odessa, TX
Population 31,985 · Texas
About West Odessa, TX
West Odessa is a mid-sized city located in Texas with a population of 31,985 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,782 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.4 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 Odessa features a median home value of $134,100, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. This makes West Odessa one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $974, 16% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 12,855 total housing units, 75% are owner-occupied (8,977 units) and 25% are renter-occupied (2,914 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Odessa shows an unemployment rate of 6.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in West Odessa have an average one-way commute time of 36 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
16.5% of West Odessa residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 61.6% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 4.7% Asian residents, with 26.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Odessa, TX
Compared to national averages, West Odessa has a median household income of $65,782 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $134,100, which is 45% below the national median. Monthly rent at $974 is 16% below the US average of $1,163. Within Texas, West Odessa's income is 10% below the state average of $72,726, and home values are 37% below the state median of $211,769.
Why Live in West Odessa, TX?
West Odessa offers affordable housing with a median home value of $134,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $974/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,782) that falls below the national average. However, West Odessa’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Odessa has a population of 31,985 with a median age of 33.4 years. Compare West Odessa with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Texas.
Similar Cities Near West Odessa
Cities in Texas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nacogdoches | 32,104 | $38,855 | $173,200 | Compare |
| Seguin | 31,789 | $61,896 | $227,000 | Compare |
| Hutto | 32,188 | $115,149 | $315,800 | Compare |
| Canyon Lake | 32,924 | $93,114 | $337,200 | Compare |
| Southlake | 31,044 | $250,001 | $957,500 | Compare |
| Cleburne | 32,966 | $66,324 | $200,900 | Compare |
| Harker Heights | 33,595 | $82,685 | $269,000 | Compare |
| Deer Park | 33,823 | $95,233 | $238,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Texas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare West Odessa With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Odessa
What is the population of West Odessa, TX?
The population of West Odessa, TX is 31,985 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Texas.
What is the median household income in West Odessa?
The median household income in West Odessa, TX is $65,782 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Odessa?
The median home value in West Odessa, TX is $134,100, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Odessa?
The median monthly rent in West Odessa, TX is $974, which is 16% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Odessa?
The unemployment rate in West Odessa, TX is 6.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Odessa, TX a good place to live?
West Odessa offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 31,985 and a median age of 33.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is West Odessa, TX?
16.5% of residents in West Odessa 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 Odessa?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Odessa, TX: median home value is $134,100 (45% below national), median rent is $974/month, and median household income is $65,782. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Odessa?
The poverty rate in West Odessa, TX is 17.8%, 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 Odessa, TX?
West Odessa's population is 61.6% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 4.7% Asian, and 1.7% two or more races. 26.5% of residents are foreign-born.