Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Chester, PA
Considering a move to West Chester, PA? This vibrant college town of 20,000 boasts a lively atmosphere, with median home prices around $460,000 and average rents at $1,650. Residents enjoy a walkable downtown, strong public schools, and a crime rate well below national averages. With a typical commute of just 24 minutes, over half of adults holding bachelor's degrees, and four-season weather, West Chester offers an appealing mix of small-town charm and urban convenience—perfect for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - West Chester, PA
Demographics - West Chester, PA
West Chester is home to about 20,000 residents with a youthful median age of 24.5, reflecting its college town atmosphere. The city is predominantly White, with a notable presence of Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups, and around 12% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its high population density creates a lively, connected community feel.
Population:
20,039
Density:
9,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
24.5
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
81.2%
Black:
9.8%
Asian:
3.1%
Others:
5.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Chester, PA?
The cost of living in West Chester is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 127.4. Median home values are approximately $460,000, and average monthly rents are $1,650, making housing the largest expense for most residents. Utilities and groceries are also slightly above average, but Pennsylvania’s flat income tax rate of 3.07% helps offset some costs.
Median House Value:
$460,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$820
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.07%
Cost Of Living Index:
127.4
Grocery:
110.2
Housing:
145.3
Utilities:
108.1
Transportation:
104.8
Health Care:
105.6
Miscellaneous:
101.0
Crime
Is West Chester, PA a safe place to live?
West Chester boasts a lower-than-average crime rate, with just 148 violent crimes and 1,527 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The odds of experiencing violent crime are about 1 in 676, contributing to the city's reputation as a safe place to live and raise a family. Most residents feel secure in their neighborhoods and downtown areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
148
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,527
Crime Index:
1,675
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 676
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 65
Weather
What is the weather like in West Chester, PA year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with winter lows around 25°F and summer highs reaching 86°F. The city receives about 46.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 54% of days, creating a balanced climate for year-round outdoor activities. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant weather for exploring the area.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
40°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
West Chester’s community features a median household income of $73,900 and a family income nearing $100,000, though about 18% of residents live below the poverty line. Over half of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and the average commute is a manageable 24 minutes. Public transportation is used by around 8% of residents, reflecting both accessibility and local convenience.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$73,900
Family Income:
$98,100
Per Capita Income:
$36,300
Income Male:
$44,700
Income Female:
$40,200
Poverty Rate:
18.1%
Non English Speakers:
11.6%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
7.8%
Commute Time:
24.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.4%
Bachelors or More:
53.2%
Education
How are the schools in West Chester, PA?
West Chester offers strong educational opportunities, including well-rated public schools like Henderson and East High School, each with manageable class sizes. The area is also home to West Chester University of Pennsylvania, a major institution with nearly 18,000 students, bringing diverse educational and cultural benefits. Families also have access to private school options, making the city attractive for learners of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Henderson High School
Street:
400 Montgomery Ave
Phone:
484-266-3300
Students:
1,320
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
West Chester East High School
Street:
450 Ellis Ln
Phone:
484-266-3800
Students:
1,230
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Private Schools
Name:
St. Agnes School
Street:
211 W Gay St
Phone:
610-696-1260
Students:
420
Colleges
Name:
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
City:
West Chester
State:
PA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
17,700
Healthcare
Healthcare in West Chester is highly accessible, anchored by Chester County Hospital, which offers comprehensive general and emergency services. With 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and a 92% health insurance coverage rate, residents enjoy solid healthcare resources. The city’s healthcare index of 75.9 indicates good quality and availability of care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Chester County Hospital
Address:
701 E Marshall St, West Chester, PA 19380
Phone:
(610) 431-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.0%
Health Care Index:
75.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Chester, PA?
The West Chester housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $460,000 and typical rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,650. Owner-occupied homes make up about 42% of the market, and home values have appreciated by over 6% in the past year. The area sees low foreclosure and rental vacancy rates, suggesting a stable and desirable market for buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$460,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
41.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle and driver services in West Chester are provided by PennDOT at their local office on Thornton Road. Residents can access licensing, registration, and title services both in person and online through the state’s DMV website. The office serves as a convenient resource for all motor vehicle needs.
State:
Pennsylvania
Department:
PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Services
Address:
938 Thornton Road, West Chester, PA 19380
Phone:
1-800-932-4600
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.