What are the hidden costs of living in Chester?

Potentially higher property taxes and insurance for older, run‑down homes Higher utility costs due to energy‑inefficient houses Maintenance costs may be high because many homes need repairs

What is the median home price in Chester?

The median home price in Chester is approximately $80,100.

Chester has a Walk Score of 46 out of 100. Most errands require a car.

Chester, PA

Updated May 1, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$80K

Median Price

46/100

Walk Score

6.1/10

Schools

Score Breakdown

DWalkability

46/100

D+Quietness

50/100

D+Safety

55/100

CSchools

61/100

AAffordability

92/100

ACommute

100/100

WYLT Score67/100

Our Take

Chester offers a cheap housing market and some decent schools, but the walk score is low, public transit is almost non‑existent, and the unemployment rate is high. If you’re a renter or a first‑time buyer who can live car‑dependent, it might work, but for families or those wanting a quieter, well‑connected community you should look elsewhere.

Map

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The Good

✓Very low median home price (~$80k) and rent (~$995/month), making it affordable for new homeowners or renters
✓A moderate number of schools with several high schools scoring 9/10 on average
✓Low flood risk (Zone X)
✓Some decent options for remote work thanks to the low cost of living

Real Talk

!High unemployment rate (~16%) and a large renter population (about 63%) indicating limited local job opportunities
!Walkability score of 46 means most errands will require a car; no decent public transit
!Limited dining and nightlife options; most spots are basic or chain restaurants
!Quietness is only moderate – traffic can be heavy during rush hours
$Potentially higher property taxes and insurance for older, run‑down homes
$Higher utility costs due to energy‑inefficient houses
$Maintenance costs may be high because many homes need repairs

Best For

First‑time buyersRenters looking for low cost of entryRemote workers who don’t mind a carFamilies with kids who can handle moderate crime and low transit

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow

Violent crimeModerate

Property crimeModerate

Air qualityModerate

Price volatilityModerate

Crime & Safety

Chester, PA

D+

Safety grade

Safety score55 / 100

High riskVery safe

⚠️Violent Crime

Moderate

3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (3.7)11+

5% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime

Moderate

19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (19.5)59+

2% higher than the national average

Verify with real-time data

AreaVibes crime →City-Data stats →NeighborhoodScout →

Rates are estimated from neighborhood characteristics using national FBI baselines. Actual figures vary by block — always verify with local sources before making decisions.

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From Residents

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