West Chester, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
178
6.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$49,375/yr
-0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
69
3.0% year-over-year change

West Chester population

How many people live in West Chester

West Chester is home to 178 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.4% of West Chester locals are male, and 55.6% are female.

Total population
178
6.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.4%
79
Female
55.6%
99
Value Percent YoY change
Male 79 44.4% 1.3%
Female 99 55.6% 10.0%
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 Chester is 29, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 23.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 23% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
28.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
23.6%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
23%
Over 65
11.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 30 16.8% 7.1%
15 to 24 42 23.6% -6.7%
25 to 44 44 24.7% -6.4%
45 to 64 41 23% 28.1%
Over 65 21 11.8% 31.2%
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

At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 9.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 177 99.4% 6.0%
Non-citizens 1 0.6% 0.0%
Racial breakdown
White
89.9%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.6%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 160 89.9%
Two or more races 17 9.6%
Other 1 0.6%

Households in West Chester

A peek inside West Chester households

West Chester has 68 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.7% are families, while the remaining 35.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
68
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
24
Family households
44
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 24 35.3% -7.7%
Family households 44 64.7% 7.3%
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 Chester

The housing landscape of West Chester

West Chester's housing consists of 69 units, with 78.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 21.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
69
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 54 78.3%
Mobile home 15 21.7%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Chester

In West Chester, the median construction year is 1938. About 59.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 13% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 41 59.4% 2.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 9 13% 12.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2 2.9% 100.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1 1.4% N/A
Built between 1980 and 1989 1 1.4% 0.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 7 10.1% 0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7 10.1% -22.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1 1.4% 0.0%
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 Chester occupancy rates

Out of the 68 occupied housing units in West Chester, 89.7% are owner-occupied, while 10.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 1.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
68
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7
Owner occupied
61
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7 10.3% -22.2%
Owner occupied 61 89.7% 5.2%
Unoccupied housing units
1.4%
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 Chester housing costs

Housing costs in West Chester come to a median of $644 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $756.

Median housing costs per month
$644/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 Chester
$756/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 Chester

West Chester education at a glance

About 62.3% of the population in West Chester went to high school, while 10% pursued college studies. Another 13.1% earned an associate degree and 10.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 1.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3 2.3% N/A
High school diploma 81 62.3% 2.5%
College diploma 13 10% -13.3%
Associate degree 17 13.1% 0.0%
Bachelor's degree 14 10.8% 16.7%
Graduate degree 2 1.5% 0.0%
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 Chester

How much people earn in West Chester

The average annual household income in West Chester was $52,331 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $49,375, reflecting a -0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Chester
$52,331/year
6.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Chester
$49,375/year
-0.8% year-over-year change

West Chester income by age

In West Chester, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $47,813. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,464 overall. Overall, 75.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $47,813 -1.3%
45 - 64 $69,464 3.2%
Over 65 $29,375 0.0%
Above poverty level
134
Below poverty level
43
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 134 75.7% 11.7%
Below poverty level 43 24.3% -8.5%

Employment in West Chester

Workforce and job types in West Chester

The job market in West Chester is powered by 67 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs.

Workforce demographics

Working population
67
9.8% year-over-year change
White collar
47
Blue collar
20
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 47 70.2% 2.2%
Blue collar 20 29.8% 33.3%
Employer type
Self employees
0%
Private companies
83.6%
Governmental workers
14.9%
Not for profit companies
1.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Private companies 56 83.6% 7.7%
Governmental workers 10 14.9% 42.9%
Not for profit companies 1 1.5% -50.0%
Unemployment rate
14.1%
-15.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in West Chester stands at 14.1%, 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 Chester

How people get around in West Chester

In West Chester, the average commute time is 22 minutes.

Commute time
22 min
-5.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 65 97% 10.2%
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 Chester by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
52359 308 108 $67,727 $71,628

Explore more communities

FAQs about West Chester demographics 

What is the total population of West Chester?

West Chester has a total population of 178 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 +6.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Chester?

The gender ratio in West Chester is as follows:
  • 44.4% males (79 residents)
  • 55.6% females (99 residents)

What is the median age in West Chester?

The median age in West Chester is 28.8.

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

The age distribution in West Chester is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (30 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 23.6% (42 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (44 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23% (41 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.8% (21 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of West Chester?

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Chester is as follows:
  • White: 89.9% (160 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.6% (17 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (1 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.4% of the population in West Chester.

How many housing units are there in West Chester?

There are 69 housing units in West Chester, reflecting a +3.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

West Chester has a total of 68 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Chester?

West Chester has a median household income of $49,375, representing a -0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 85.9% in West Chester, with a workforce of 67 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.2% (47 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.8% (20 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 0% (0 residents)
  • Private companies: 83.6% (56 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.9% (10 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 1.5% (1 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