Lester, WV
Population 492 · West Virginia
About Lester, WV
Lester is a small community in West Virginia with a population of 492 residents. The median household income is $30,000 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Lester is 50.4 years.
Housing in Lester has a median home value of $81,500 and median monthly rent of $834. Of the 201 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 135 owner-occupied and 43 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Lester is 4.2% and the poverty rate is 50.8%. 12.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 48.3 minutes.
Cost of Living in Lester, WV
Compared to national averages, Lester has a median household income of $30,000 (60% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $81,500, which is 67% below the national median. Monthly rent at $834 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Lester's income is 44% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 36% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Lester, WV?
Lester offers affordable housing with a median home value of $81,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $834/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($30,000) that falls below the national average. However, Lester’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Lester has a population of 492 with a median age of 50.4 years. Compare Lester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Lester
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burnsville | 493 | $83,095 | $109,900 | Compare |
| Masontown | 490 | $50,938 | $128,200 | Compare |
| Boomer | 488 | $27,875 | $92,800 | Compare |
| Big Chimney | 497 | $72,740 | $216,500 | Compare |
| Clay | 485 | $0 | $58,800 | Compare |
| Springfield | 485 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Meadow Bridge | 504 | $40,089 | $108,000 | Compare |
| Clearview | 505 | $73,750 | $214,700 | 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 Lester
What is the population of Lester, WV?
The population of Lester, WV is 492 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Lester?
The median household income in Lester, WV is $30,000 per year.
What is the median home value in Lester?
The median home value in Lester, WV is $81,500.
What is the average rent in Lester?
The median monthly rent in Lester, WV is $834.
What is the unemployment rate in Lester?
The unemployment rate in Lester, WV is 4.2%.