Chester, VA
Population 23,519 · Virginia
About Chester, VA
Chester is a mid-sized city in Virginia with a population of 23,519 residents. The median household income is $88,455 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Chester is 41.2 years.
Housing in Chester has a median home value of $290,600 and median monthly rent of $1,463. Of the 9,697 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 6,710 owner-occupied and 2,493 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Chester is 3.4% and the poverty rate is 7.8%. 32.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 28.5 minutes.
How Chester Ranks in Virginia
Cost of Living in Chester, VA
Compared to national averages, Chester has a median household income of $88,455 (18% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $290,600, which is 19% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,463 is 26% above the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Chester's income is 1% above the state average of $87,957, and home values are 11% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Chester, VA?
Chester offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $88,455, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.4%, and a low poverty rate of 7.8%, better than the national average.
Chester has a population of 23,519 with a median age of 41.2 years. Compare Chester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Chester
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry Hill | 23,443 | $119,474 | $470,400 | Compare |
| Chantilly | 23,744 | $143,786 | $633,900 | Compare |
| Brambleton | 23,999 | $250,001 | $833,000 | Compare |
| Hopewell | 22,944 | $48,681 | $165,100 | Compare |
| West Springfield | 22,905 | $157,800 | $612,200 | Compare |
| Leesylvania | 22,848 | $137,460 | $508,800 | Compare |
| Christiansburg | 22,820 | $75,451 | $242,900 | Compare |
| Waynesboro | 22,574 | $56,364 | $236,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Virginia
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Chester
What is the population of Chester, VA?
The population of Chester, VA is 23,519 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Chester?
The median household income in Chester, VA is $88,455 per year.
What is the median home value in Chester?
The median home value in Chester, VA is $290,600.
What is the average rent in Chester?
The median monthly rent in Chester, VA is $1,463.
What is the unemployment rate in Chester?
The unemployment rate in Chester, VA is 3.4%.