West Hempstead, NY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,648
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$164,127/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,311
0.5% year-over-year change

West Hempstead population

How many people live in West Hempstead

West Hempstead is home to 20,648 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of West Hempstead locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
20,648
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
10,206
Female
50.6%
10,442
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,206 49.4% 0.8%
Female 10,442 50.6% -1.8%
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 Hempstead is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.5% are children under 15, then 13.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.3% of the population, while another 24.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.5%
15 to 24
13.6%
25 to 44
24.3%
45 to 64
24.2%
Over 65
16.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,431 21.5% 3.9%
15 to 24 2,818 13.6% -4.9%
25 to 44 5,012 24.3% -0.7%
45 to 64 4,996 24.2% -6.0%
Over 65 3,391 16.4% 6.9%
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 Hempstead, 77.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 16.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 59.4% of locals are Caucasian, 10.8% are African American and 6.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
16.2%
Non-citizens
6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,074 77.8% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,338 16.2% -1.3%
Non-citizens 1,236 6% 4.6%
Racial breakdown
White
59.4%
Black or African American
10.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
6.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.6%
Other
13.2%
Value Percent
White 12,262 59.4%
Black or African American 2,219 10.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 103 0.5%
Asian 1,367 6.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 3 0%
Two or more races 1,978 9.6%
Other 2,716 13.2%

Households in West Hempstead

A peek inside West Hempstead households

West Hempstead has 6,121 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 82.7% are families, while the remaining 17.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,121
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,059
Family households
5,062
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,059 17.3% 11.0%
Family households 5,062 82.7% -0.7%
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 Hempstead

The housing landscape of West Hempstead

West Hempstead's housing consists of 6,311 units, with 92% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,311
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,804 92%
1 unit, attached 47 0.7%
2 units 184 2.9%
3 or 4 units 6 0.1%
5 to 9 units 98 1.6%
10 to 19 units 18 0.3%
20 to 49 units 20 0.3%
50 or more units 117 1.8%
Mobile home 17 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
18
-14.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Hempstead

In West Hempstead, the median construction year is 1952. About 23.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 18.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 1.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,493 23.7% -0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,176 18.6% 4.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,522 40% -1.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 603 9.6% 11.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 261 4.1% 27.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 28 0.4% -72.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 38 0.6% 35.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 73 1.2% 2.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 99 1.6% -20.2%
Built in 2020 or later 18 0.3% -14.3%
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 Hempstead occupancy rates

Out of the 6,121 occupied housing units in West Hempstead, 90.6% are owner-occupied, while 9.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,121
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
577
Owner occupied
5,544
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 577 9.4% 8.9%
Owner occupied 5,544 90.6% 0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
3.0%
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 Hempstead housing costs

Housing costs in West Hempstead come to a median of $2,959 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,967.

Median housing costs per month
$2,959/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 Hempstead
$2,967/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 Hempstead

West Hempstead education at a glance

About 24.9% of the population in West Hempstead went to high school, while 16.3% pursued college studies. Another 7.3% earned an associate degree and 25.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 21.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 698 4.5% 1.9%
High school diploma 3,834 24.9% -1.0%
College diploma 2,505 16.3% -8.9%
Associate degree 1,116 7.3% 3.0%
Bachelor's degree 3,927 25.5% 0.4%
Graduate degree 3,295 21.4% -2.0%
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 Hempstead

How much people earn in West Hempstead

The average annual household income in West Hempstead was $176,137 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $164,127, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Hempstead
$176,137/year
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Hempstead
$164,127/year
2.4% year-over-year change

West Hempstead income by age

In West Hempstead, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $183,880. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $175,929 overall. Overall, 95.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $183,880 3.3%
45 - 64 $175,929 -0.6%
Over 65 $93,483 3.2%
Above poverty level
19,514
Below poverty level
935
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 19,514 95.4% -0.9%
Below poverty level 935 4.6% 12.8%

Average renter income in West Hempstead

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in West Hempstead, their median household income was $114,788 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$114,788
Rent-to-income ratio
31%
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 Hempstead

Workforce and job types in West Hempstead

The job market in West Hempstead is powered by 9,449 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 62.8% are employed by private companies, and 16.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,449
-1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
8,148
Blue collar
1,301
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,148 86.2% -1.9%
Blue collar 1,301 13.8% 3.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
62.8%
Governmental workers
16.4%
Not for profit companies
13.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 722 7.6% -3.1%
Private companies 5,934 62.8% -3.2%
Governmental workers 1,554 16.4% -1.5%
Not for profit companies 1,239 13.1% 11.4%
Unemployment rate
5.5%
-6.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in West Hempstead stands at 5.5%, 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 Hempstead

How people get around in West Hempstead

In West Hempstead, the average commute time is 36 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 70.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
36 min
-4.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,552 70.6% -1.0%
Taxicab 80 0.9% 27.0%
Bus or trolleybus 232 2.5% 13.2%
Subway or elevated 170 1.8% N/A
Railroad 381 4.1% -24.9%
Bicycle 13 0.1% 8.3%
Walk 180 1.9% 13.2%
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 Hempstead by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
11552 25,174 7,469 $155,154 $171,231

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FAQs about West Hempstead demographics 

What is the total population of West Hempstead?

West Hempstead has a total population of 20,648 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Hempstead?

The gender ratio in West Hempstead is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (10,206 residents)
  • 50.6% females (10,442 residents)

What is the median age in West Hempstead?

The median age in West Hempstead is 37.5.

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

The age distribution in West Hempstead is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.5% (4,431 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.6% (2,818 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.3% (5,012 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.2% (4,996 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.4% (3,391 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of West Hempstead?

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Hempstead is as follows:
  • White: 59.4% (12,262 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.8% (2,219 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (103 residents)
  • Asian: 6.6% (1,367 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (3 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.6% (1,978 residents)
  • Other: 13.2% (2,716 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.8% of the population in West Hempstead.

How many housing units are there in West Hempstead?

There are 6,311 housing units in West Hempstead, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

West Hempstead has a total of 6,121 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Hempstead?

West Hempstead has a median household income of $164,127, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.5% in West Hempstead, with a workforce of 9,449 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.2% (8,148 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.8% (1,301 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (722 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.8% (5,934 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.4% (1,554 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.1% (1,239 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