Chester, WV
Population 2,302 · West Virginia
About Chester, WV
Chester is a small community in West Virginia with a population of 2,302 residents. The median household income is $63,750 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Chester is 55.4 years.
Housing in Chester has a median home value of $110,600 and median monthly rent of $686. Of the 1,332 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 967 owner-occupied and 221 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Chester is 11.8% and the poverty rate is 10.1%. 26.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 29.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Chester, WV
Compared to national averages, Chester has a median household income of $63,750 (15% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $110,600, which is 55% below the national median. Monthly rent at $686 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Chester's income is 18% above the state average of $54,014, and home values are 14% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Chester, WV?
Chester offers affordable housing with a median home value of $110,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $686/month, and a low poverty rate of 10.1%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,750) that falls below the national average. However, Chester’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Chester has a population of 2,302 with a median age of 55.4 years. Compare Chester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Chester
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluewell | 2,281 | $35,599 | $137,800 | Compare |
| Stonewood | 2,273 | $44,967 | $149,400 | Compare |
| Mullens | 2,267 | $65,625 | $77,900 | Compare |
| Wellsburg | 2,364 | $40,948 | $97,200 | Compare |
| Falling Waters | 2,384 | $87,632 | $207,200 | Compare |
| Shinnston | 2,198 | $63,750 | $135,500 | Compare |
| Hinton | 2,413 | $42,852 | $92,400 | Compare |
| St. Marys | 2,178 | $59,315 | $129,400 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in West 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, WV?
The population of Chester, WV is 2,302 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Chester?
The median household income in Chester, WV is $63,750 per year.
What is the median home value in Chester?
The median home value in Chester, WV is $110,600.
What is the average rent in Chester?
The median monthly rent in Chester, WV is $686.
What is the unemployment rate in Chester?
The unemployment rate in Chester, WV is 11.8%.