Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Vail, CO
Thinking of moving to West Vail, CO? With a population of about 2,100, this scenic mountain community offers stunning alpine weather (average highs of 75°F in summer), a high median home price of $1.12M, and a relaxed, outdoors-focused lifestyle. Crime rates remain low, with just 185 violent crimes per 100K, and most residents enjoy a quick 14-minute average commute. West Vail is known for its excellent schools and easy access to world-class skiing, making it ideal for families and adventure lovers alike.
Demographics - West Vail, CO
Demographics - West Vail, CO
West Vail is a close-knit community of around 2,100 residents, with a median age of 38.1 years and a slightly higher proportion of males to females. The population is predominantly White (78.5%), with a significant Hispanic presence, and about 14.5% speak a language other than English at home. The area’s moderate population density creates a comfortable small-town feel with a diverse yet welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
2,100
Density:
1,050 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.1
Gender Ratio:
107 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
14.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
78.5%
Asian:
2.1%
Others:
2.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Vail, CO?
Living in West Vail comes with a high cost of living, reflected in the median home value of $1,120,000 and median rent of $2,700 per month. The overall cost of living index is 168.3, largely driven by substantial housing expenses, while utilities and groceries remain closer to national averages. Residents should be prepared for higher-than-average expenses, especially when it comes to housing and transportation.
Median House Value:
$1,120,000
Gross Rent:
$2,700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$950
State Taxes:
Low:
4.4%
|
High:
4.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
168.3
Grocery:
112.0
Housing:
254.0
Utilities:
103.5
Transportation:
120.0
Health Care:
108.0
Miscellaneous:
105.0
Crime
Is West Vail, CO a safe place to live?
West Vail is considered a safe community, with just 185 violent crimes and 1,180 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is relatively low at 1 in 540, making the area appealing for families and individuals seeking peace of mind. Overall, the city maintains a low crime index compared to urban centers.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
185
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,180
Crime Index:
1,365
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 540
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 85
Weather
What is the weather like in West Vail, CO year-round?
West Vail features classic alpine weather with crisp winters where lows dip to 8°F, pleasantly warm summers reaching highs of 75°F, and plentiful sunshine on 63% of days. The area receives around 23.7 inches of rainfall annually, supporting outdoor recreation year-round. Residents enjoy distinct seasons, ideal for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.

Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
31°F

Spring
Min:
23°F
Max:
48°F

Summer
Min:
40°F
Max:
75°F

Fall
Min:
25°F
Max:
55°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
23.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Residents of West Vail benefit from a strong community with a median household income of $92,200 and a low unemployment rate of 2.9%. Educational attainment is high, with 94.8% holding a high school diploma and over half with a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average commute is just over 14 minutes, contributing to a relaxed mountain lifestyle.
Median Income:
$44,800
Household Income:
$92,200
Family Income:
$108,000
Per Capita Income:
$48,900
Income Male:
$54,800
Income Female:
$42,400
Poverty Rate:
7.1%
Non English Speakers:
14.5%
Rent:
$2,700
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
3.5%
Commute Time:
14.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
94.8%
Bachelors or More:
56.3%
Education
How are the schools in West Vail, CO?
Families in West Vail have access to quality education, with well-rated public schools like Red Sandstone Elementary and Battle Mountain High School offering favorable student-teacher ratios. Private options such as Vail Mountain School and nearby Colorado Mountain College provide additional opportunities for K–12 and higher education. The community values educational attainment, making it an excellent choice for households with children.

Public Schools
Name:
Red Sandstone Elementary School
Street:
551 N Frontage Rd W
Phone:
970-328-2910
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
12:1
Name:
Battle Mountain High School
Street:
151 Miller Ranch Rd, Edwards, CO 81632
Phone:
970-328-2930
Students:
930
Student Teacher Ratio:
15:1

Private Schools
Name:
Vail Mountain School
Street:
3000 Booth Falls Rd
Phone:
970-476-3850
Students:
425

Colleges
Name:
Colorado Mountain College - Vail Valley
City:
Edwards
State:
CO
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
West Vail residents have access to quality healthcare, anchored by Vail Health Hospital, which provides comprehensive emergency and general services. The area boasts a high physician-to-population ratio (3.5 per 1,000) and over 91% of residents are covered by health insurance. Healthcare resources are robust, supporting the well-being of this small community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Vail Health Hospital
Address:
180 S Frontage Rd W, Vail, CO 81657
Phone:
(970) 476-2451
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Vail, CO?
The local housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $1,120,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $2,700. About 52% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen a healthy annual home appreciation rate of 7.2%. With a low foreclosure rate and moderate rental vacancy, West Vail attracts both buyers and renters seeking alpine living.
Median Home Price:
$1,120,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,700
Owner Occupied Rate:
52.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
West Vail’s DMV services are provided by the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in town. Residents can access vehicle registration, licensing, and other essential services both in-person and online. The DMV offers helpful resources for newcomers and long-term residents alike.
State:
Colorado
Department:
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
328 Hanson Ranch Rd, Vail, CO 81657
Phone:
(303) 205-5600
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.