West Chester is a borough located in Chester County, Pennsylvania, United States. It sits at the intersection of Market and High Streets and has a mailing population of 108,696 (485% higher than its recorded population of 18,592). West Chester University of Pennsylvania North Campus and the Chester County government are both located within the borough.
West Chester’s climate is humid continental and humid subtropical. Summers are hot and humid while winters are cold but variable. Rainfall per year averages 46.7 inches and snowfall 27.7 inches.
West Chester offers a great place to escape into nature or explore its vibrant downtown area full of shops, restaurants, galleries, historic buildings, and markets filled with local produce throughout the year.
Population
As of 2021, the American Community Survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau reported that it had a population of 18,592 inhabitants. The key demographic data points are:
Age
Philadelphia is a young city compared to the rest of Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington metro area. With a median age of 24.6, it is almost five years younger than its metro area, which has a median age of 29.7, and over two years younger than Pennsylvania’s population, which has an average median age of 26.9.
Density
The population density in Greater Reading, PA is 10,070.3 people per square mile – a rate about half of that of the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington Metro Area (5.6%), and two-fifths the rate of Pennsylvania overall (6.9%). This makes it one of the most densely populated areas in the region.
Racial Makeup
West Chester has a 76.5% White population, 8.5% Black or African-American population, 0.3% American Indian and Alaska Native population, 9.9% Asian population, 0.1% Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander population, 3.0% from two or more races, and 8.8% Hispanic or Latino of any race according to the QuickFacts data from the census bureau in 2020.
History
Founded in 1762 by Phineas Eachus and Chest Weaterson, West Chester was officially incorporated in 1799. It served as an important center for transportation developments: the first railroad was built here in 1832, and Philadelphia was connected to West Chester by trolley.
Several notable buildings were constructed in West Chester over time. The prominent Thomas U. Walter-designed courthouse was completed in 1847. The Bank of Chester County, the Chester County Courthouse, and the components of the West Chester State College Quadrangle Historic District are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Quality of Life
West Chester has plenty to offer when it comes to housing, jobs, and amenities. The SnackAbility score of 7 out of 10 is made up of a high rating of 9 for housing and a lower rating of 6 for jobs.
The area has plenty to do with a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, stores, and other amenities nearby. Dining options range from T’ever Cafe and Cathey’s Coffee Bar to Dunkin Donuts. Local grocery stores include Giant Eagle, Snyder’s Of Hanover, and GIANT Food Stores.
When it comes to internet connection options various providers offer wireline, ADSL, terrestrial fixed wireless, Asymmetrical xDSL, satellite, and fiber connections.
The Public Safety and Quality of Life Committee looks after West Chester’s safety as well as security by suggesting measures to further enhance its quality of life.
Healthcare
Over 93% of the West Chester population has some form of health care. Of this percentage, about 57.2% come from employee plans, 12.5% from Medicaid plans, 7% from Medicare plans, 15% from non-group plans, and 0.9% from military or VA insurance plans.
Education
The West Chester Area School District manages the public school system for the borough. It administers three high schools, three middle schools, and several elementary schools.
The U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey showed that 53.8% of West Chester residents 25 or older had a bachelor’s degree or higher in 2015-2019. That’s compared to 32.6% in Pennsylvania and 32.0% in the US overall. Residents here have significantly higher levels of educational attainment than across the state and country as a whole.
Transport
West Chester Pike is the main east-west road to West Chester, just outside of Philadelphia. The route begins in Upper Darby and is part of PA Route 3. High Street is the main north-south road in West Chester. State routes such as PA 162, 842, and 52 offer additional access to the area.
The West Chester Transportation Center serves as a parking garage for the courthouse and bus terminal. Three SEPTA buses provide access to different locations – King of Prussia Transit Center (Route 92), West Chester University and 69th Street Transportation Center (Route 104), and Exton, Downingtown, and Coatesville (Route 135). The SCCOOT Transport Management Association also provides service to Kennett Square and Oxford. A heritage railroad runs on a rail line into West Chester.
Points of Interest
West Chester, Pennsylvania is a historic small town filled with charming possibilities. There are a lot of places for visitors to see including:
- Philips Memorial Building, located at University and S. High Street, is home to the university and a sight to behold.
- William Everhart Buildings, resting on 28 W. Market Street, built in 1833 by Congressman William Everhart features an iconic Federal style of architecture, where Abraham Lincoln’s first biography was printed in 1860.
- Downtown West Chester offers wonders around every corner with 83 shops and 59 restaurants dotting the streets such as live music venues and street fairs like the infamous farmers market. It’s also the place where Abraham Lincoln and Samuel Barber began their quests for excellence by visiting this historical area.
- Experience history itself at Sandy Hollow: A 16-point landmark that offers a walk-through history on a re-enactment of The Battle of Brandywine.
- West Chester Railroad — one of America’s oldest railroads — for a stunning 90-minute train ride along Chester Creek Valley offering up an incredible window into many moments from the past!
- Callowhill Archery, located downtown in Philly, is for those looking to test their marksmanship skills as you check your aim over an archery base course.
- Brandywine Valley is also a must-visit, with lush countryside and rambling rivers. If you’re looking for a scenic adventure, this is for you.
- Try their famous Restaurants Festival held each year in West Chester.
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