Pennsylvania / County

Moving to West Chester, PA

Thinking of making a move to West Chester, PA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Chester, PA

Considering a move to West Chester, PA? This welcoming community of 20,039 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $460,000 and average rents near $1,650. Commute times average 24 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (54% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore West Chester's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - West Chester, PA

West Chester has a population of 20,039 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 25 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 81% White, 10% Black, and 3% Asian residents, and over 12% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

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 around $460,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,650. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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 is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 148 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 65. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Pennsylvania.

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?

West Chester experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 86°F and cold winters dipping to 25°F. The area receives about 47 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 54% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
25°F
Max
40°F

Summer

Min
65°F
Max
86°F

Spring

Min
44°F
Max
67°F

Fall

Min
47°F
Max
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
54%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $73,900 and a low poverty rate of 18.1%. Over 95% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 53% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 24 minutes, and almost 8% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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 quality education options, with public schools like Henderson High School and West Chester East High School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including West Chester University of Pennsylvania. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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

West Chester residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Chester County Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.6 per 1,000 people and 92.0% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

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

Healthcare Access

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 local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $460,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 42%. The market has seen a 6.3% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 4.4%. West Chester offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both 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

Residents of West Chester handle vehicle services through the PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Services, conveniently located in West Chester. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Pennsylvania
Department
PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Services
Address
938 Thornton Road, West Chester, PA 19380
Phone
1-800-932-4600

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.

FAQs About Moving to West Chester, PA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to West Chester, review the core fields on this page: population 20,039, median home value $460,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,650, commute time 24.2 minutes, and sunny days percentage 54%.

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