In the early twentieth century, the community of Waterville was largely populated by a handful of settlers, most of whom lived in or near the city. During the early twentieth century, Waterville was home to Democratic U.S. Senator George Mitchell, who had previously served as Muskie's chief aide. Other notable people born in Waterville include Wyman B. Moor and Charles P. Nelson. As of mid-May 2013, the historic St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church in the city was destroyed and replaced with a senior housing facility. Waterville is an educational and cultural center for central Maine, with two colleges and several major hospitals.
The population density of Waterville Valley is 57.8, which is slightly smaller than the neighboring Bartlett CDP with an age of 65.2. The age distribution among men and women in Waterville Valley is a little more even, with women in the city of Waterville Valley slightly older than their counterparts in nearby towns. This is the reason the area is relatively safe for families, with fewer crime and fewer fatalities.
Waterville Valley City is home to the highest proportion of native New Hampshirens. With a population of over three-fourths Native, it ranks among the top cities in New Hampshire for the proportion of its population that is foreign born. As a result, this New Hampshire city is populated by immigrants from many countries. The city also has one of the lowest rates of poverty, at just under 1.7 percent per capita.