Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Haven, CT
Considering a move to West Haven, CT? With a population of 54,525, West Haven offers affordable housing—median home prices are around $256,000 and average rents at $1,380. The city features moderate living costs, a short average commute of 25.7 minutes, and access to top healthcare and education options like the University of New Haven. While property crime is slightly above average, West Haven’s mix of coastal living, community amenities, and proximity to New Haven make it an appealing choice for many.
Demographics - West Haven, CT
Demographics - West Haven, CT
West Haven is home to about 54,525 residents, featuring a diverse community where the median age is 36.7 and nearly 18% of the population speaks a language other than English. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a blend of ethnic backgrounds, offering a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. Its moderate population density supports both urban amenities and neighborhood charm.
Population:
54,525
Density:
4,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.7
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
17.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
56.2%
Black:
18.7%
Asian:
4.3%
Others:
20.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Haven, CT?
West Haven offers a cost of living slightly above the national average, with median home values around $256,000 and average rent at $1,380 per month. Utilities and transportation tend to be a bit higher, but housing costs remain comparatively reasonable for the region. State income taxes range from 3% to 6.99%, making it important for new residents to budget accordingly.
Median House Value:
$256,000
Gross Rent:
$1,380
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,450
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$690
State Taxes:
Low:
3%
|
High:
6.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
111.3
Grocery:
108.5
Housing:
99.2
Utilities:
120.1
Transportation:
109.1
Health Care:
106.8
Miscellaneous:
105.0
Crime
Is West Haven, CT a safe place to live?
The city experiences a property crime rate above the national average, with a 1 in 50 chance of being affected, while violent crime remains relatively low at 232 incidents per 100,000 people. Residents generally feel safe, but it’s wise to take standard precautions, especially in certain neighborhoods. Overall, crime rates are manageable and typical for a city of its size.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
232
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,010
Crime Index:
2,242
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 431
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in West Haven, CT year-round?
West Haven enjoys all four seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 83°F and winters dipping to lows of 23°F. The city receives about 49 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 54% of the year, making for a pleasant climate overall. Seasonal changes offer residents a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Residents of West Haven benefit from a community-oriented atmosphere, with a median household income of $67,706 and a poverty rate of 12.5%. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is just under 26 minutes, supporting a balanced lifestyle. Public transportation is available, though most prefer driving for daily travel.
Median Income:
$37,800
Household Income:
$67,706
Family Income:
$78,300
Per Capita Income:
$32,150
Income Male:
$44,000
Income Female:
$36,500
Poverty Rate:
12.5%
Non English Speakers:
17.5%
Rent:
$1,380
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
4.1%
Commute Time:
25.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.7%
Bachelors or More:
28.1%
Education
How are the schools in West Haven, CT?
West Haven boasts strong educational resources, including public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and private school options. The city is also home to the University of New Haven, and Yale University is just a few miles away, expanding higher education opportunities. Families benefit from quality schooling and proximity to renowned colleges.
Public Schools
Name:
West Haven High School
Street:
1 McDonough Plaza
Phone:
203-937-4360
Students:
1,500
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Bailey Middle School
Street:
106 Morgan Ln
Phone:
203-937-4380
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.8
Private Schools
Name:
Notre Dame High School
Street:
1 Notre Dame Way
Phone:
203-933-1673
Students:
480
Colleges
Name:
University of New Haven
City:
West Haven
State:
CT
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
7,500
Name:
Yale University
City:
New Haven
State:
CT
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
14,500
Healthcare
West Haven offers quality healthcare access, anchored by nearby Yale New Haven Hospital and the VA Connecticut Healthcare System, both providing emergency services. With 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 93% health insurance coverage, locals have reliable medical support. The healthcare infrastructure is robust, meeting a wide range of needs for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Yale New Haven Hospital
Address:
20 York St, New Haven, CT 06510
Phone:
(203) 688-4242
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
VA Connecticut Healthcare System
Address:
950 Campbell Ave, West Haven, CT 06516
Phone:
(203) 932-5711
Type:
Veterans Medical Center
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
76.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Haven, CT?
The local housing market is stable, with a median home price of $256,000 and a homeownership rate of 54%. Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,380, and home values have appreciated by 5.2% over the past year. Moderate vacancy and low foreclosure rates indicate a healthy, active market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$256,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,380
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
West Haven residents access vehicle services through the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, located in Wethersfield. The DMV provides a full range of services, including licensing and registration, and can be reached by phone or via their official website. Convenient online resources make managing vehicle needs straightforward for locals.
State:
Connecticut
Department:
Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
60 State St, Wethersfield, CT 06161
Phone:
1-860-263-5700
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.