Median Income
$38,173
49% lower than US avg
Home Value
$90,600
68% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
607/100K
60% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
3.1%
91% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$1,053
9% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
31.9%
1% lower than US avg
Unemployment
5.0%
39% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
37.2%
200% higher than US avg
How West Decatur Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population624
Median Age35.9 yrs
Density446/mi²
Male / Female47% / 53%
Largest GroupWhite 94%
Veterans4.6%
Economy
C
Median Income$38,173
Per Capita$19,834
Unemployment5.0%
Poverty37.2%
County GDP$8,000M
Commute29 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$90,600
Rent$1,053
Ownership70.6%
Zillow$154,751
Housing Units237
Rent Burden51.0%
Crime
F
Violent607/100K
Property2,906/100K
Climate
Avg Temp47°F (8°C)
AQI40 (Good)
Rain42.0 in/yr
Sunny Days275/yr
Elevation1,539 ft (469 m)
Education
F
Bachelor's+3.1%
High School+84.0%
Graduate+1.1%
School Score5.95
Community
2024 VoteR 71% / D 28%
Commute29 min
Broadband86.5%
EV Stations1
Libraries8
Is West Decatur a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, West Decatur receives an overall livability score of 2.3 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C. Key strengths include affordable housing, abundant sunshine, high health insurance coverage. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, an elevated poverty rate, below-average incomes. West Decatur has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in West Decatur is $38,173, 49% below the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 5.0% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. The poverty rate of 37.2% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 29 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in West Decatur is $90,600, 68% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $1,053 per month. At just 2.4x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Safety & Crime
With 607 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, public safety is a notable concern / this is significantly above the national average of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 2,906 per 100,000, 48% above the national average.
Education
3.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 84.0% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.9/10.
Climate & Weather
West Decatur experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 47°F. Winters average 24°F in January while summers reach 68°F in July. With 275 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 42.0 inches, including 50.0 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 40.
West Decatur has a population of 624 with a density of 446 people per square mile, spread across 1.4 square miles. The median age is 35.9 years, 8% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 53.2% female and 46.8% male. The city is predominantly White (94.4%), with 1.3% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 98% of residents. 4.6% of the population are veterans, below the national rate of 6.0%. 11.8% of residents have a disability. 96.1% have health insurance coverage.
Population
35.9yrs
Median Age
8% below US avg
Race & Ethnicity
West Decatur vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
98.0%
25% above US avg
Spanish
2.0%
85% below US avg
Social Characteristics
West Decatur vs U.S. Average
The median household income in West Decatur is $38,173, which is 49% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $19,834 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $1,024, 28% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 5.0% (above the 3.6% US average). 37.2% of residents live below the poverty line, higher than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 3,430 business establishments, including 305 restaurants. The cost of living index is 97.6, roughly in line with the national average. Workers commute an average of 29 minutes. 4.1% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: West Decatur vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $38,173 |
| 49% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $19,834 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $1,024 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $66,997 |
| Gini Index | 0.445 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 5.0% |
| 39% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 37.2% |
| 200% above US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 3,430 |
| County GDP | $8,000M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 305 |
| Healthcare | 462 |
| Retail | 495 |
| Manufacturing | 128 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $4,849 |
| 39% above US avg |
| Cost of Living | 97.60 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 5.35% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 29.0 min |
| Drive Alone | 85.6% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 4.1% |
The median home value in West Decatur is $90,600, 68% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $154,751, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $1,053 (9% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $996 for a one-bedroom to $1,225 for a two-bedroom apartment. 70.6% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 237 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1950. The average annual property tax is $4,849 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 51.0% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing, indicating a significant affordability challenge for renters. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.4x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $90,600 |
| 68% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $154,751 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $1,053 |
| 9% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 51.0% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $900 |
| 1 Bedroom | $996 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,225 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,744 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 70.6% |
| Owner-Occupied | 70.6% |
| Renter-Occupied | 29.4% |
| Housing Units | 237 |
| Median Year Built | 1950 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $4,849 |
| 39% above US avg |
| Effective Rate | 5.35% |
In West Decatur, 31.9% of adults are obese, below the national rate of 32.1%. The primary care physician ratio is 1:1,295. The dentist ratio is 1:1,552. 75.5% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 8.1 out of 10.
Health Metrics: West Decatur vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 31.9% |
| 1% below US avg |
Behaviors & Mental Health
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 96.1% |
| |
| Primary Care | 1:1,295 |
| Dentists | 1:1,552 |
| Mental Health | 1:329 |
| Dental Visits | 62.5% |
| Premature Death | 10,059/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 8.1/10 |
| Exercise Access | 75.5% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 462 |
West Decatur has a violent crime rate of 607 per 100,000 residents, 60% above the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 2,906 per 100,000, 48% above the U.S. average. The county recorded 12 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, West Decatur receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: West Decatur vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 607.5/100K |
| 60% above US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 2,905.9/100K |
| 48% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 12 |
| Traffic Accidents | 160 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.1 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
West Decatur experiences four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of 47°F (8°C). Winters average 24°F in January while summers reach 68°F in July. The area gets 275 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 42.0 inches. The area receives 50.0 inches of snow annually, making winter weather a significant factor for residents. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 40. The city sits at an elevation of 1,539 feet.
Temperature
24°F Jan (-5°C)
68°F Jul (20°C)
| Annual Average | 46.6°F |
| 14% below US avg |
| January Average | 24°F (-5°C) |
| July Average | 68°F (20°C) |
| Sunny Days | 275 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 1,539 ft (469 m) |
| Area | 1.4 sq mi (3.6 km²) |
| Population Density | 446/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 40.9291°N, 78.2817°W |
| Timezone | America/New_York |
| County | Blair County County |
| Nearest Airport | State College Regional (SCE)
25 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
42.0"
11% above US avg
Wettest Month (Jun)
4.45"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 40.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Air Pollutants (EPA 2023)
| Ozone (O₃) | 0.0428 ppm |
| SO₂ (Sulfur Dioxide) | 0.47 ppb |
| PM2.5 (Fine Particles) | 8.8 μg/m³ |
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Relatively Low |
| Risk Score | 77.7 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 57.6 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 94.1 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Relatively Low |
| Hurricane |
Relatively Low |
| Earthquake |
Relatively Low |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
Relatively Moderate |
| Hail |
Relatively Low |
| Strong Wind |
Relatively Moderate |
| Heat Wave |
Relatively Low |
| Winter Weather |
Relatively High |
| Lightning |
Relatively Moderate |
| Ice Storm |
Very Low |
| Drought |
No Rating |
| Cold Wave |
Relatively Low |
| Landslide |
Relatively Low |
| Avalanche |
Very Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
4 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.4. Most recent: M3.4 on Jun 13, 2019.
| Jun 13, 2019 |
9 km N of Blain, Pennsylvania |
M3.4 |
86 km |
| Jun 3, 2010 |
4 km ENE of Franklintown, Pennsylvania |
M3.1 |
145 km |
| Apr 24, 2009 |
1 km S of Franklintown, Pennsylvania |
M2.9 |
143 km |
| Oct 25, 2009 |
4 km ENE of Franklintown, Pennsylvania |
M2.8 |
144 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
157 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 12 fatalities, 151 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| May 31, 1985 |
EF4 |
100 km |
4 |
| May 31, 1985 |
EF4 |
43 km |
0 |
| May 31, 1985 |
EF3 |
99 km |
6 |
| Jul 29, 1976 |
EF3 |
90 km |
0 |
| Sep 3, 1963 |
EF3 |
66 km |
0 |
| Mar 31, 2022 |
EF2 |
92 km |
0 |
| Apr 19, 2019 |
EF2 |
72 km |
0 |
| Oct 2, 2018 |
EF2 |
78 km |
0 |
| May 23, 2011 |
EF2 |
97 km |
0 |
| Apr 28, 2002 |
EF2 |
89 km |
0 |
| Jul 19, 1996 |
EF2 |
89 km |
0 |
| Jul 19, 1996 |
EF2 |
58 km |
0 |
| Jul 19, 1996 |
EF2 |
56 km |
0 |
| Sep 26, 1994 |
EF2 |
38 km |
0 |
| Sep 18, 1991 |
EF2 |
48 km |
0 |
| Nov 20, 1989 |
EF2 |
52 km |
0 |
| Jun 20, 1989 |
EF2 |
91 km |
0 |
| Sep 23, 1986 |
EF2 |
97 km |
0 |
| May 31, 1985 |
EF2 |
91 km |
0 |
| Jul 26, 1981 |
EF2 |
89 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Wildfire History
5 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: BULL RUN (2,003 ac, 2008).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2008 |
BULL RUN |
2,003 |
100 km |
| 2018 |
FIELDS RUN |
711 |
40 km |
| 2006 |
FIVE MILE FIRE |
658 |
56 km |
| 2006 |
OKOME ROAD |
573 |
91 km |
| 2006 |
BEAR TRAP |
561 |
53 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
24°F (-5°C) |
2.6 in |
Coldest, Driest |
| February |
26°F (-3°C) |
2.7 in |
|
| March |
35°F (2°C) |
3.5 in |
|
| April |
46°F (8°C) |
3.3 in |
|
| May |
57°F (14°C) |
4.1 in |
|
| June |
65°F (18°C) |
4.5 in |
Wettest |
| July |
68°F (20°C) |
4.0 in |
Warmest |
| August |
68°F (20°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| September |
61°F (16°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| October |
50°F (10°C) |
3.0 in |
|
| November |
40°F (4°C) |
3.5 in |
|
| December |
29°F (-2°C) |
3.0 in |
|
West Decatur has a seasonal temperature swing of 45°F / from 24°F in January to 68°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 41.3 inches, with June being the wettest month (4.5") and January the driest (2.6").
Average costs for common services in West Decatur. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$244 ($146–$390) |
| Specialist Visit |
$342 ($195–$537) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$195 ($98–$342) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$2,147 ($781–$4,880) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$127 ($73–$195) |
| Dental Filling |
$244 ($146–$390) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$44 ($24–$73) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$73 ($49–$117) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$293 ($146–$488) |
| Tire Rotation |
$39 ($20–$73) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$586 ($390–$976) |
| Battery Replacement |
$195 ($98–$342) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$98 ($59–$146) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$88 ($49–$137) |
| HVAC Repair |
$390 ($146–$781) |
| HVAC System Install |
$6,832 ($3,904–$11,712) |
| Roof Repair |
$976 ($390–$1,952) |
| Roof Replacement |
$8,784 ($5,368–$14,640) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,464 ($488–$3,416) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$14,640 ($4,880–$29,280) |
| DUI Defense |
$4,880 ($1,952–$9,760) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,464 ($781–$2,928) |
| Will Preparation |
$488 ($195–$976) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,440 ($976–$4,880) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$24 ($15–$44) |
| Women's Haircut |
$54 ($29–$98) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$146 ($73–$244) |
| Manicure |
$24 ($15–$44) |
| Pedicure |
$39 ($24–$63) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$78 ($49–$127) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$4.00 ($2.93–$5.37) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.42 ($2.44–$4.88) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.71 ($2.44–$5.37) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$4.39 ($2.93–$6.34) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$5.37 ($3.90–$7.32) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$0.98 ($0.59–$1.76) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$137 ($78–$244) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$68 ($29–$146) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$68 ($39–$117) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$68 ($39–$98) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$63 ($29–$98) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$83 ($49–$146) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$195 ($73–$488) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$1,952 ($1,171–$3,416) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$68 ($29–$127) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$15 ($7.81–$24) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$98 ($29–$244) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$29 ($15–$73) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,171 ($586–$2,440) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$976 ($488–$1,952) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$390 ($195–$683) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$49 ($24–$98) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$976 ($390–$2,440) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$12,200 ($4,880–$29,280) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$59 ($29–$98) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$98 ($49–$195) |
| Dog Grooming |
$59 ($29–$98) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$39 ($20–$73) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$293 ($146–$488) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$195 ($98–$390) |
View all 9 services
Frequently Asked Questions About West Decatur
What is the population of West Decatur?
West Decatur has a population of 624 residents and is located in Pennsylvania. The population density is 446 people per square mile, spread across 1.4 square miles. The median age of residents is 35.9 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 53.2% female and 46.8% male.
Is West Decatur expensive to live in?
West Decatur has a cost of living roughly in line with the national average, with an index of 97.6 (baseline: 100). The median household income is $38,173, 49% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $90,600 (68% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $1,053 per month. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is West Decatur safe?
Public safety is a concern in West Decatur, with a violent crime rate of 607 per 100,000 / significantly above the national average of 380. However, crime tends to concentrate in certain areas, and many neighborhoods remain relatively safe. Property crime occurs at a rate of 2,906 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, West Decatur receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in West Decatur?
West Decatur has a four-season climate with an average annual temperature of 47°F (8°C). Winter temperatures average 24°F in January, while summers reach an average of 68°F in July. The area receives 275 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 42.0 inches, with 50.0 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 40.
How is the job market in West Decatur?
The unemployment rate in West Decatur is 5.0%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average weekly wage is $1,024. There are 3,430 business establishments in the area, including 305 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 29 minutes, and 4.1% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in West Decatur?
The median home value in West Decatur is $90,600. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $154,751. For renters, the median monthly rent is $1,053. Fair market rent is $996 for a 1-bedroom and $1,225 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 70.6%. The average annual property tax is $4,849.
How are the schools in West Decatur?
Schools in West Decatur score 5.9 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 3.1% of adults in West Decatur hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 84.0% have completed high school. 1.1% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is West Decatur?
The obesity rate in West Decatur is 31.9% (below the national rate of 32.1%). 75.5% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:1,295.
What is transportation like in West Decatur?
The average commute in West Decatur is 29 minutes. 85.6% of workers drive alone to work, and 4.1% work from home.
What are the demographics of West Decatur?
The racial and ethnic makeup of West Decatur is 94.4% White, 1.3% Black or African American. 98% of residents speak only English at home. 4.6% of the population are military veterans. 11.8% of residents have a disability. 96.1% have health insurance coverage.
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