Is West St. Paul a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, West St. Paul receives an overall livability score of 3.7 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B+. Key strengths include above-average household incomes, abundant sunshine, a low poverty rate. Areas to be aware of include high housing costs, above-average unemployment. West St. Paul offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in West St. Paul is $123,000, which is significantly higher than the national average — 64% above $75,149. This places West St. Paul among higher-income communities. The unemployment rate of 6.5% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. Only 4.5% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 26 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in West St. Paul is $500,000, making it a premium housing market at 77% above the U.S. median of $281,900. Renters pay a median of $1,720 per month, significantly above the national average of $1,163. A price-to-income ratio of 4.1x indicates a reasonably affordable housing market.
Education
18.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 31.1% have completed high school.
Climate & Weather
West St. Paul has a cool climate with an average annual temperature of 41°F. Winters average 11°F in January while summers reach 66°F in July. With 266 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 19.1 inches, including 31.3 inches of snow.