Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Lancaster, PA
Thinking of calling West Lancaster, PA home? With a population of around 18,000, this friendly community offers affordable living—median home prices are $220,000 and average rents are $1,150. Residents enjoy a reasonable cost of living, short 24-minute average commutes, and access to reputable schools like Hempfield High. Crime rates are moderate, and the area boasts a pleasant climate with 55% sunny days each year. West Lancaster is perfect for those seeking small-city comforts, good schools, and a manageable cost of living.
Demographics - West Lancaster, PA
Demographics - West Lancaster, PA
West Lancaster is home to about 18,000 residents, featuring a balanced mix of ages with a median age of 39.1. The community is diverse, with a majority White population and notable Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups, and around 14% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. This creates a welcoming, multicultural environment ideal for families and newcomers alike.
Population:
18,000
Density:
2,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
14.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
62.0%
Black:
13.5%
Asian:
4.1%
Others:
20.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Lancaster, PA?
West Lancaster offers an affordable lifestyle, with median home values at $220,000 and average rents around $1,150 per month. The cost of living index is below the national average, and utility, grocery, and transportation costs are generally reasonable for the region. State income taxes remain modest, making the area attractive for both homeowners and renters.
Median House Value:
$220,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,480
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$525
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
93.7
Grocery:
98.4
Housing:
85.3
Utilities:
102.8
Transportation:
95.6
Health Care:
99.1
Miscellaneous:
97.2
Crime
Is West Lancaster, PA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in West Lancaster are moderate, with violent crime remaining below national averages and property crime occurring at a rate of 1 in 59. Residents generally experience a sense of safety, though it’s wise to take standard precautions. The overall crime index reflects a community that balances small-city living with attentive public safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
209
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,690
Crime Index:
1,899
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 478
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 59
Weather
What is the weather like in West Lancaster, PA year-round?
Residents of West Lancaster enjoy four distinct seasons, including mild summers with highs near 85°F and cold winters averaging lows of 23°F. The area receives about 43.5 inches of annual rainfall and has roughly 55% sunny days each year, making it ideal for outdoor activities throughout the year. Spring and fall offer especially comfortable temperatures for enjoying local parks and events.

Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
55%
Neighbors
The community has a median household income of about $59,500, with most residents employed locally or in nearby cities. Educational attainment is strong, with nearly 87% having at least a high school diploma and 27% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. West Lancaster’s friendly atmosphere and manageable 24-minute average commute foster a close-knit, welcoming neighborhood vibe.
Median Income:
$41,000
Household Income:
$59,500
Family Income:
$68,500
Per Capita Income:
$28,900
Income Male:
$42,800
Income Female:
$34,500
Poverty Rate:
12.2%
Non English Speakers:
14.2%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
23.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
86.9%
Bachelors or More:
27.3%
Education
How are the schools in West Lancaster, PA?
Families in West Lancaster have access to quality public and private schools, including Hempfield High School and Lancaster Catholic High School. The area also offers proximity to respected colleges such as Franklin & Marshall College and Millersville University, making it a strong choice for lifelong learning. Student-to-teacher ratios support personalized education for local students.

Public Schools
Name:
Hempfield High School
Street:
200 Stanley Ave
Phone:
717-898-5555
Students:
2,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.9
Name:
Landisville Middle School
Street:
340 Mumma Dr
Phone:
717-898-5575
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8

Private Schools
Name:
Lancaster Catholic High School
Street:
650 Juliette Ave
Phone:
717-509-0315
Students:
620

Colleges
Name:
Franklin & Marshall College
City:
Lancaster
State:
PA
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
2,350
Name:
Millersville University
City:
Millersville
State:
PA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
7,800
Healthcare
West Lancaster residents benefit from convenient access to quality healthcare, including major hospitals like Lancaster General and UPMC Lititz. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% of residents covered by health insurance, the area provides strong medical support. Emergency and specialized care are readily available within a short drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Lancaster General Hospital
Address:
555 N Duke St, Lancaster, PA 17602
Phone:
(717) 544-5511
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
UPMC Lititz
Address:
1500 Highlands Dr, Lititz, PA 17543
Phone:
(717) 625-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Lancaster, PA?
The local housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $220,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 64%. Rental options are available and affordable, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,150 and a low vacancy rate. Home values have appreciated nearly 5% in the past year, reflecting steady growth and investment potential.
Median Home Price:
$220,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
West Lancaster residents are served by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), offering a full range of DMV services. The nearest main office is located in Harrisburg and provides convenient online and in-person support for licenses, vehicle registration, and more. Comprehensive information is available on the state DMV website.
State:
Pennsylvania
Department:
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)
Address:
1101 S. Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104
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.