West Haven, CT demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
55,351
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,382/yr
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,973
0.4% year-over-year change

West Haven population

How many people live in West Haven

West Haven is home to 55,351 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of West Haven locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
55,351
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
26,849
Female
51.5%
28,502
Value Percent YoY change
Male 26,849 48.5% 1.1%
Female 28,502 51.5% -0.3%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in West Haven is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.7% are children under 15, then 18.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.8% of the population, while another 23% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.7%
15 to 24
18.6%
25 to 44
25.8%
45 to 64
23%
Over 65
16%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,224 16.7% -5.5%
15 to 24 10,288 18.6% 7.5%
25 to 44 14,265 25.8% -1.6%
45 to 64 12,735 23% -1.6%
Over 65 8,839 16% 5.6%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In West Haven, 74.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 14.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 47.2% of locals are Caucasian, 20.9% are African American and 5.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 14.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
74.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
14.5%
Non-citizens
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 41,433 74.9% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 8,019 14.5% 7.6%
Non-citizens 5,899 10.7% 1.6%
Racial breakdown
White
47.2%
Black or African American
20.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
5.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
11.7%
Other
14.1%
Value Percent
White 26,121 47.2%
Black or African American 11,566 20.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 159 0.3%
Asian 3,091 5.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 156 0.3%
Two or more races 6,452 11.7%
Other 7,806 14.1%

Households in West Haven

A peek inside West Haven households

West Haven has 20,938 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.4% are families, while the remaining 39.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
20,938
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,293
Family households
12,645
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,293 39.6% 7.0%
Family households 12,645 60.4% -2.6%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in West Haven

The housing landscape of West Haven

West Haven's housing consists of 21,973 units, with 46.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,973
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,149 46.2%
1 unit, attached 833 3.8%
2 units 2,604 11.8%
3 or 4 units 2,340 10.6%
5 to 9 units 1,002 4.6%
10 to 19 units 1,226 5.6%
20 to 49 units 1,501 6.8%
50 or more units 2,196 10%
Mobile home 122 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
19
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Haven

In West Haven, the median construction year is 1959. About 26% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,718 26% 10.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,408 6.4% -8.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,092 18.6% 4.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,689 12.2% -8.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,746 17% 7.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,157 9.8% -11.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 935 4.3% -13.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 703 3.2% -13.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 506 2.3% 0.4%
Built in 2020 or later 19 0.1% N/A
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

West Haven occupancy rates

Out of the 20,938 occupied housing units in West Haven, 50.6% are owner-occupied, while 49.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
20,938
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
10,348
Owner occupied
10,590
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 10,348 49.4% 2.0%
Owner occupied 10,590 50.6% 0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
4.7%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

West Haven housing costs

Housing costs in West Haven come to a median of $1,562 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,442.

Median housing costs per month
$1,562/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in West Haven
$1,442/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in West Haven

West Haven education at a glance

About 38.6% of the population in West Haven went to high school, while 22.7% pursued college studies. Another 5.7% earned an associate degree and 16.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,513 5.7% 5.9%
High school diploma 17,057 38.6% 2.4%
College diploma 10,007 22.7% -2.9%
Associate degree 2,513 5.7% -5.4%
Bachelor's degree 7,089 16.1% 2.9%
Graduate degree 4,961 11.2% 12.7%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in West Haven

How much people earn in West Haven

The average annual household income in West Haven was $93,406 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,382, reflecting a +1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Haven
$93,406/year
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Haven
$74,382/year
1.1% year-over-year change

West Haven income by age

In West Haven, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,004. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $93,140 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,625, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,430 in earnings. Overall, 86.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,625 -1.6%
25 - 44 $73,004 2.7%
45 - 64 $93,140 -1.2%
Over 65 $60,430 -9.8%
Above poverty level
43,725
Below poverty level
6,976
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 43,725 86.2% -2.8%
Below poverty level 6,976 13.8% 10.3%

Average renter income in West Haven

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in West Haven, their median household income was $47,685 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,685
Rent-to-income ratio
36.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in West Haven

Workforce and job types in West Haven

The job market in West Haven is powered by 27,004 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.7% run their own businesses, 67.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
27,004
0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
21,038
Blue collar
5,966
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 21,038 77.9% 0.3%
Blue collar 5,966 22.1% 3.0%
Employer type
Self employees
6.7%
Private companies
67.7%
Governmental workers
12.4%
Not for profit companies
13.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,798 6.7% 10.7%
Private companies 18,289 67.7% -0.5%
Governmental workers 3,334 12.4% -1.9%
Not for profit companies 3,583 13.3% 6.9%
Unemployment rate
7.3%
11.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in West Haven stands at 7.3%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in West Haven

How people get around in West Haven

Commuting methods vary: 84.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 22,160 84.6% 1.4%
Taxicab 72 0.3% -30.1%
Bus or trolleybus 658 2.5% -13.7%
Subway or elevated 24 0.1% N/A
Railroad 112 0.4% 38.3%
Bicycle 7 0% -69.6%
Walk 673 2.6% 6.2%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in West Haven by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
06516 55,351 20,938 $74,382 $93,406

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FAQs about West Haven demographics 

What is the total population of West Haven?

West Haven has a total population of 55,351 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Haven?

The gender ratio in West Haven is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (26,849 residents)
  • 51.5% females (28,502 residents)

What is the median age in West Haven?

The median age in West Haven is 35.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in West Haven?

The age distribution in West Haven is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.7% (9,224 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.6% (10,288 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.8% (14,265 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23% (12,735 residents)
  • Over 65: 16% (8,839 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of West Haven?

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Haven is as follows:
  • White: 47.2% (26,121 residents)
  • Black or African American: 20.9% (11,566 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (159 residents)
  • Asian: 5.6% (3,091 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (156 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.7% (6,452 residents)
  • Other: 14.1% (7,806 residents)

What percentage of the population in West Haven are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 74.9% of the population in West Haven.

How many housing units are there in West Haven?

There are 21,973 housing units in West Haven, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in West Haven and what is the average household size?

West Haven has a total of 20,938 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Haven?

West Haven has a median household income of $74,382, representing a +1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for West Haven?

The employment rate is 92.7% in West Haven, with a workforce of 27,004 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.9% (21,038 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.1% (5,966 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.7% (1,798 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.7% (18,289 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.4% (3,334 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.3% (3,583 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025