Demographics and Location

As of the 2020 census, West Hempstead had a population of 19,835. Key demographic information includes:

• Median Age: 38.4 years
• Median Household Income: $154,009 (as of 2022)
• Racial Composition:
  • White (Non-Hispanic): 57.7%
  • Black or African American (Non-Hispanic): 10.3%
  • Other (Hispanic): 9.37%
  • Two+ (Hispanic): 6.37%
  • White (Hispanic): 5.6%
• U.S. Citizens: 95.4% of residents

Real Estate Market

As of August 2024, West Hempstead’s real estate market shows:

• Median Sale Price: $755,000 (up 18.9% from last year)
• Median Price Per Square Foot: $404 (down 4.1% from last year)
• Average Days on Market: 38 days
• Homes Sold in August: 12 (down from 18 last year)

The West Hempstead housing market is considered somewhat competitive, with some homes receiving multiple offers.

History

West Hempstead has a rich history:

• First appeared on maps as a Long Island Railroad station name in 1893
• Home to three railroad stations: West Hempstead, Hempstead Gardens, and Lakeview
• Halls Pond Park, the main park, was dedicated by Nassau County in 1961
• The West Hempstead Public Library was founded in 1956 and chartered by the State in 1967

Education

West Hempstead is served by the West Hempstead Union Free School District. Notable schools include:

• George Washington School (Grades 4-6)
• Cornwell Avenue School (Grades 1-3)
• Chestnut Street School (Grades K-1)

Community and Lifestyle

West Hempstead offers residents:

• Multi-generational suburb with strong community ties
• Sidewalk and tree-lined streets
• Annual festivals and community events
• Diverse houses of worship, including seven synagogues
• Waterfront parks and recreational facilities
• Easy access to New York City via the Long Island Rail Road

Notable Residents

West Hempstead has been home to several notable individuals, including:

• Nathan Englander – American short story writer and novelist
• Kalomoira – Popular Greek singer
• Walt Whitman – American poet, essayist, and journalist (served as headmaster of a local school)
• Orville Wright – Inventor of powered flight (lived in West Hempstead in the early 1930s)

Conclusion

West Hempstead, NY, offers a unique combination of suburban living with easy access to urban amenities. Its diverse community, strong school system, and rich history make it an attractive destination for families and professionals seeking a high quality of life on Long Island.