Westchester County has proven to be lively place to make home. With plenty of educational, career and attraction opportunities; this New York area has become a prominent force in the U.S. economy. Median household incomes are well above the National average, ranging $85,000 per year. Much of the prosperity has to due with the counties educational and community programs. 87% of all residents are graduating with high-school diplomas. 4-year college degrees are on the rise, currently at 24.5% of the population. While the population is predominantly Caucasian (67%); Hispanics (16%), African Americans (14%), and many other ethnic groups continue moving to Westchester and calling it home. Educational, health and social services create career opportunities for just over 25% of the population. Professional, scientific, management and waste management services are providing work for almost 14% of the population; while finance, insurance real estate, rental and leasing create jobs for over 11% of the population.

Along with rising salaries, homes are appreciating at around 15% per year, making for a smart investment on any level. The Westchester County community continues to grow with a population of over 920,000 and number of homes approaching 350,000. 68% of all homes are owned, 28% are rented and about 4% are vacant. Median home values continue on a strong climb, currently at almost $511,000.
Single-family new house construction building permits:

• 2000: 1287 buildings, average cost: $271,300
• 2001: 1090 buildings, average cost: $285,800
• 2002: 1049 buildings, average cost: $282,500
• 2003: 826 buildings, average cost: $295,500
• 2004: 898 buildings, average cost: $331,300
• 2005: 780 buildings, average cost: $338,200

Westchester County owes its growth and prosperity to many different areas of the community. Education and career opportunities continue to thrive and grow, creating opportunities for residents and non-residents looking to call Westchester home. The current amount of students enrolled in a Westchester County college is just over 52,800. Residents with high-school diplomas number 87% of the population and 4-year college graduates number 24.5%. Both numbers continue to increase as growth in the county continues to increase. With affordable rent and housing prices, and an unemployment rate of only 3.8%, the community continues to help each other grow. Along with the economic reasons, there are also many entertainment and activities making Westchester County attractive. Golf courses, parks, music & art centers, camping, churches and lakes & reservoirs all create a fun and exciting place to call home.

Information and Statistics have been found at: City-Data.com and Local.Reply.com