Wells River, VT
Population 339 · Vermont
About Wells River, VT
Wells River is a small community located in Vermont with a population of 339 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $40,556 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 52.4 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 Wells River features a median home value of $160,800, which is 34% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Wells River in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $755, 35% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 213 total housing units, 52% are owner-occupied (87 units) and 48% are renter-occupied (81 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wells River shows an unemployment rate of 10.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 29.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Wells River have an average one-way commute time of 32.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.4% of Wells River 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 3.8% White, 6.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 5.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Wells River Ranks in Vermont
Cost of Living in Wells River, VT
Compared to national averages, Wells River has a median household income of $40,556 (46% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $160,800, which is 34% below the national median. Monthly rent at $755 is 35% below the US average of $1,163. Within Vermont, Wells River's income is 44% below the state average of $72,974, and home values are 37% below the state median of $255,863.
Why Live in Wells River, VT?
Wells River offers affordable housing with a median home value of $160,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $755/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($40,556) that falls below the national average. However, Wells River’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wells River has a population of 339 with a median age of 52.4 years. Compare Wells River with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Vermont.
Similar Cities Near Wells River
Cities in Vermont with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lyndon Center | 337 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Rochester | 335 | $36,932 | $251,500 | Compare |
| North Pownal | 345 | $71,250 | $196,400 | Compare |
| North Hyde Park | 346 | $59,458 | $177,600 | Compare |
| Dorset | 349 | $148,385 | $482,400 | Compare |
| Danville | 359 | $0 | $252,900 | Compare |
| Cavendish | 316 | $117,500 | $246,200 | Compare |
| Graniteville | 362 | $36,349 | $140,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Vermont
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Wells River With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Wells River
What is the population of Wells River, VT?
The population of Wells River, VT is 339 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Vermont.
What is the median household income in Wells River?
The median household income in Wells River, VT is $40,556 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wells River?
The median home value in Wells River, VT is $160,800, which is 34% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Wells River?
The median monthly rent in Wells River, VT is $755, which is 35% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wells River?
The unemployment rate in Wells River, VT is 10.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Wells River, VT a good place to live?
Wells River offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 339 and a median age of 52.4, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Wells River, VT?
15.4% of residents in Wells River 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 Wells River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wells River, VT: median home value is $160,800 (34% below national), median rent is $755/month, and median household income is $40,556. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.0x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Wells River?
The poverty rate in Wells River, VT is 29.2%, 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 Wells River, VT?
Wells River's population is 3.8% White, 6.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 5.9% of residents are foreign-born.