Northwest Washington, Washington, DC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
326,621
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$123,315/yr
-2.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
177,677
0.6% year-over-year change

Northwest Washington population

How many people live in Northwest Washington

Northwest Washington is home to 326,621 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.7% of Northwest Washington locals are male, and 52.3% are female.

Total population
326,621
1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.7%
155,927
Female
52.3%
170,694
Value Percent YoY change
Male 155,927 47.7% 1.2%
Female 170,694 52.3% 2.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Northwest Washington is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.8% are children under 15, then 12.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 40% of the population, while another 20% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
35
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.8%
15 to 24
12.7%
25 to 44
40%
45 to 64
20%
Over 65
13.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 44,899 13.8% 1.6%
15 to 24 41,358 12.7% 8.3%
25 to 44 130,495 40% 0.7%
45 to 64 65,386 20% 0.3%
Over 65 44,482 13.6% 0.9%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Northwest Washington, 77.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 51.4% of locals are Caucasian, 22.5% are African American and 6.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.5%
Non-citizens
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 254,260 77.8% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 37,510 11.5% 1.9%
Non-citizens 34,851 10.7% 8.2%
Racial breakdown
White
51.4%
Black or African American
22.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
6.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
11.9%
Other
7.6%
Value Percent
White 167,764 51.4%
Black or African American 73,541 22.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,303 0.4%
Asian 20,347 6.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 221 0.1%
Two or more races 38,763 11.9%
Other 24,682 7.6%

Households in Northwest Washington

A peek inside Northwest Washington households

Northwest Washington has 161,230 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 37.1% are families, while the remaining 62.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
161,230
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
101,390
Family households
59,840
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 101,390 62.9% 1.8%
Family households 59,840 37.1% -0.8%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Northwest Washington

The housing landscape of Northwest Washington

Northwest Washington's housing consists of 177,677 units, with 12.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 16.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
177,677
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 22,208 12.5%
1 unit, attached 29,546 16.6%
2 units 6,007 3.4%
3 or 4 units 7,481 4.2%
5 to 9 units 9,384 5.3%
10 to 19 units 10,028 5.6%
20 to 49 units 19,258 10.8%
50 or more units 73,665 41.5%
Mobile home 94 0%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0%
Homes built since 2020
2,494
98.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northwest Washington

In Northwest Washington, the median construction year is 1952. About 39.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 70,220 39.5% -0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 14,078 7.9% -5.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 18,615 10.5% -0.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 15,656 8.8% 4.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 11,118 6.3% 1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 9,205 5.2% -6.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,535 2.6% -7.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 13,787 7.8% 0.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 17,970 10.1% 5.5%
Built in 2020 or later 2,494 1.4% 98.2%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Northwest Washington occupancy rates

Out of the 161,230 occupied housing units in Northwest Washington, 45% are owner-occupied, while 55% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
161,230
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
88,680
Owner occupied
72,550
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 88,680 55% -0.2%
Owner occupied 72,550 45% 2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
9.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Northwest Washington housing costs

Housing costs in Northwest Washington come to a median of $2,356 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,248.

Median housing costs per month
$2,356/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Northwest Washington
$2,248/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Northwest Washington

Northwest Washington education at a glance

About 11.2% of the population in Northwest Washington went to high school, while 12.5% pursued college studies. Another 1.9% earned an associate degree and 29.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 42% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 8,333 3% 8.3%
High school diploma 30,767 11.2% 2.1%
College diploma 34,443 12.5% 2.5%
Associate degree 5,218 1.9% 5.1%
Bachelor's degree 80,941 29.4% 1.0%
Graduate degree 115,522 42% 0.8%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Northwest Washington

How much people earn in Northwest Washington

The average annual household income in Northwest Washington was $208,710 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $123,315, reflecting a -2.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northwest Washington
$208,710/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northwest Washington
$123,315/year
-2.1% year-over-year change

Northwest Washington income by age

In Northwest Washington, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $139,272. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $159,706 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,370, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $90,284 in earnings. Overall, 89.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,370 -2.1%
25 - 44 $139,272 5.5%
45 - 64 $159,706 -1.7%
Over 65 $90,284 -1.2%
Above poverty level
275,132
Below poverty level
32,405
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 275,132 89.5% 0.4%
Below poverty level 32,405 10.5% 9.6%

Employment in Northwest Washington

Workforce and job types in Northwest Washington

96.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 3.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.2% run their own businesses, 45.7% are employed by private companies, and 23.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
191,546
Blue collar
6,517
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 191,546 96.7% 1.2%
Blue collar 6,517 3.3% -3.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
45.7%
Governmental workers
23.6%
Not for profit companies
22.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 16,236 8.2% 2.1%
Private companies 90,512 45.7% 0.2%
Governmental workers 46,664 23.6% 0.8%
Not for profit companies 44,652 22.5% 2.5%

Transportation in Northwest Washington

How people get around in Northwest Washington

In Northwest Washington, the average commute time is 94 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 53.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 23.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
94 min
-44.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 53,251 53.4% -0.5%
Taxicab 1,255 1.3% 3.5%
Bus or trolleybus 13,617 13.7% -13.1%
Railroad 352 0.4% -2.5%
Ferryboat 14 0% 250.0%
Motorcycle 328 0.3% -9.1%
Bicycle 7,556 7.6% -1.7%
Walk 23,300 23.4% -5.2%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Northwest Washington by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
20001 44,616 23,868 $138,059 $173,629
20004 1,831 1,274 $184,792 $236,922
20005 13,131 8,667 $116,724 $167,695
20006 1,362 729 $35,011 $49,947
20007 24,602 12,027 $140,996 $237,628
20008 29,434 16,818 $125,212 $197,561
20009 50,150 29,210 $146,664 $191,961
20010 31,808 14,376 $114,126 $174,847
20011 67,434 27,774 $110,309 $150,616
20012 17,519 7,155 $121,418 $179,700

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FAQs about Northwest Washington demographics 

What is the total population of Northwest Washington?

Northwest Washington has a total population of 326,621 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Northwest Washington?

The gender ratio in Northwest Washington is as follows:
  • 47.7% males (155,927 residents)
  • 52.3% females (170,694 residents)

What is the median age in Northwest Washington?

The median age in Northwest Washington is 35.

What is the age distribution of the population in Northwest Washington?

The age distribution in Northwest Washington is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.8% (44,899 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.7% (41,358 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 40% (130,495 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20% (65,386 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.6% (44,482 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Northwest Washington?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northwest Washington is as follows:
  • White: 51.4% (167,764 residents)
  • Black or African American: 22.5% (73,541 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (1,303 residents)
  • Asian: 6.2% (20,347 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (221 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.9% (38,763 residents)
  • Other: 7.6% (24,682 residents)

What percentage of the population in Northwest Washington are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.8% of the population in Northwest Washington.

How many housing units are there in Northwest Washington?

There are 177,677 housing units in Northwest Washington, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Northwest Washington and what is the average household size?

Northwest Washington has a total of 161,230 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northwest Washington?

Northwest Washington has a median household income of $123,315, representing a -2.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Northwest Washington?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 96.7% (191,546 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 3.3% (6,517 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (16,236 residents)
  • Private companies: 45.7% (90,512 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.6% (46,664 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 22.5% (44,652 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025