Wells River, VT demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
340
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$38,688/yr
-4.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
198
-7.0% year-over-year change

Wells River population

How many people live in Wells River

Wells River is home to 340 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 56.8% of Wells River locals are male, and 43.2% are female.

Total population
340
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
56.8%
193
Female
43.2%
147
Value Percent YoY change
Male 193 56.8% 3.2%
Female 147 43.2% -3.3%
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 Wells River is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 15% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 30% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
15%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
30%
Over 65
19.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 51 15% 8.5%
15 to 24 38 11.2% 46.1%
25 to 44 83 24.4% 29.7%
45 to 64 102 30% -7.3%
Over 65 66 19.4% -28.3%
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 Wells River, 92.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.6% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 5.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5%
Non-citizens
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 314 92.4% 0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 17 5% 54.5%
Non-citizens 9 2.6% -35.7%
Racial breakdown
White
82.9%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.9%
Asian
4.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.6%
Other
4.1%
Value Percent
White 282 82.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 10 2.9%
Asian 15 4.4%
Two or more races 19 5.6%
Other 14 4.1%

Households in Wells River

A peek inside Wells River households

Wells River has 163 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 40.5% are families, while the remaining 59.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
163
-3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
97
Family households
66
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 97 59.5% -3.0%
Family households 66 40.5% -2.9%
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 Wells River

The housing landscape of Wells River

Wells River's housing consists of 198 units, with 57.1% 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 2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
198
-7.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 113 57.1%
2 units 20 10.1%
3 or 4 units 19 9.6%
5 to 9 units 21 10.6%
10 to 19 units 21 10.6%
Mobile home 4 2%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wells River

In Wells River, the median construction year is 1938. About 68.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% 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 136 68.7% 0.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5 2.5% -16.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4 2% -50.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4 2% -20.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 13 6.6% -18.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 14 7.1% 75.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11 5.6% -42.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 11 5.6% -15.4%
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.

Wells River occupancy rates

Out of the 163 occupied housing units in Wells River, 47.8% are owner-occupied, while 52.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
163
-3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
85
Owner occupied
78
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 85 52.2% 4.9%
Owner occupied 78 47.8% -10.3%
Unoccupied housing units
17.7%
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.

Wells River housing costs

Housing costs in Wells River come to a median of $1,110 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $900.

Median housing costs per month
$1,110/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 Wells River
$900/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 Wells River

Wells River education at a glance

About 60.3% of the population in Wells River went to high school, while 11.4% pursued college studies. Another 3.6% earned an associate degree and 13.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 1.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 29 10.3% -3.3%
High school diploma 170 60.3% 9.7%
College diploma 32 11.4% -33.3%
Associate degree 10 3.6% 25.0%
Bachelor's degree 38 13.5% 8.6%
Graduate degree 3 1.1% -50.0%
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 Wells River

How much people earn in Wells River

The average annual household income in Wells River was $50,183 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -7.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $38,688, reflecting a -4.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wells River
$50,183/year
-7.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wells River
$38,688/year
-4.6% year-over-year change

Wells River income by age

In Wells River, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $43,125. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $45,833 overall. Overall, 61.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $43,125 -18.8%
45 - 64 $45,833 2.8%
Over 65 $30,250 -4.2%
Above poverty level
208
Below poverty level
132
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 208 61.2% -13.3%
Below poverty level 132 38.8% 33.3%

Average renter income in Wells River

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Wells River, their median household income was $21,719 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 49.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$21,719
Rent-to-income ratio
49.7%
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 Wells River

Workforce and job types in Wells River

The job market in Wells River is powered by 118 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 16.1% run their own businesses, 50.8% are employed by private companies, and 22% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
118
-8.5% year-over-year change
White collar
76
Blue collar
42
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 76 64.4% -12.6%
Blue collar 42 35.6% 0.0%
Employer type
Self employees
16.1%
Private companies
50.8%
Governmental workers
22%
Not for profit companies
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 19 16.1% -29.6%
Private companies 60 50.8% -4.8%
Governmental workers 26 22% 18.2%
Not for profit companies 13 11% -23.5%
Unemployment rate
9.2%
-20.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wells River stands at 9.2%, 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 Wells River

How people get around in Wells River

Commuting methods vary: 81.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.8% 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 95 81.9% -13.6%
Bus or trolleybus 6 5.2% 100.0%
Walk 9 7.8% 28.6%
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 Wells River by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
05081 842 393 $55,804 $65,834

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FAQs about Wells River demographics 

What is the total population of Wells River?

Wells River has a total population of 340 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wells River?

The gender ratio in Wells River is as follows:
  • 56.8% males (193 residents)
  • 43.2% females (147 residents)

What is the median age in Wells River?

The median age in Wells River is 42.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wells River?

The age distribution in Wells River is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15% (51 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (38 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (83 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30% (102 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.4% (66 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wells River?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wells River is as follows:
  • White: 82.9% (282 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.9% (10 residents)
  • Asian: 4.4% (15 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.6% (19 residents)
  • Other: 4.1% (14 residents)

What percentage of the population in Wells River are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.4% of the population in Wells River.

How many housing units are there in Wells River?

There are 198 housing units in Wells River, reflecting a -7.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Wells River and what is the average household size?

Wells River has a total of 163 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wells River?

Wells River has a median household income of $38,688, representing a -4.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Wells River?

The employment rate is 90.8% in Wells River, with a workforce of 118 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.4% (76 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.6% (42 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 16.1% (19 residents)
  • Private companies: 50.8% (60 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22% (26 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11% (13 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