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

Total population
149,218
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,296/yr
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
76,681
1.9% year-over-year change

Southeast Washington population

How many people live in Southeast Washington

Southeast Washington is home to 149,218 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.4% of Southeast Washington locals are male, and 52.6% are female.

Total population
149,218
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.4%
70,657
Female
52.6%
78,562
Value Percent YoY change
Male 70,657 47.4% 1.6%
Female 78,562 52.6% 0.0%
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 Southeast Washington is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.8% are children under 15, then 10.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 36.8% of the population, while another 21.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
34
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.8%
15 to 24
10.6%
25 to 44
36.8%
45 to 64
21.1%
Over 65
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 29,534 19.8% 0.2%
15 to 24 15,740 10.6% -0.8%
25 to 44 54,953 36.8% 1.0%
45 to 64 31,519 21.1% 0.5%
Over 65 17,473 11.7% 3.2%
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 Southeast Washington, 92.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 21.4% of locals are Caucasian, 68.1% are African American and 1.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.7%
Non-citizens
2.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 137,799 92.4% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 7,061 4.7% 5.7%
Non-citizens 4,359 2.9% 49.2%
Racial breakdown
White
21.4%
Black or African American
68.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 31,894 21.4%
Black or African American 101,573 68.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 436 0.3%
Asian 2,708 1.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 40 0%
Two or more races 9,011 6%
Other 3,556 2.4%

Households in Southeast Washington

A peek inside Southeast Washington households

Southeast Washington has 68,123 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.4% are families, while the remaining 53.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
68,123
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
36,489
Family households
31,634
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 36,489 53.6% 1.8%
Family households 31,634 46.4% -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 Southeast Washington

The housing landscape of Southeast Washington

Southeast Washington's housing consists of 76,681 units, with 8.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 26.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
76,681
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,497 8.5%
1 unit, attached 20,408 26.6%
2 units 2,487 3.2%
3 or 4 units 7,874 10.3%
5 to 9 units 8,117 10.6%
10 to 19 units 10,959 14.3%
20 to 49 units 3,124 4.1%
50 or more units 17,148 22.4%
Mobile home 67 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
3,696
61.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Southeast Washington

In Southeast Washington, the median construction year is 1963. About 20.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 15,516 20.2% 4.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 9,174 12% -6.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,540 12.4% -9.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 9,464 12.3% 1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,416 7.1% 6.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,275 3% -9.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,697 3.5% -9.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,516 8.5% -6.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 12,386 16.2% 13.7%
Built in 2020 or later 3,696 4.8% 61.9%
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.

Southeast Washington occupancy rates

Out of the 68,123 occupied housing units in Southeast Washington, 33.9% are owner-occupied, while 66.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
68,123
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
45,058
Owner occupied
23,065
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 45,058 66.1% 1.0%
Owner occupied 23,065 33.9% -0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
11.2%
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.

Southeast Washington housing costs

Housing costs in Southeast Washington come to a median of $1,388 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,317.

Median housing costs per month
$1,388/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 Southeast Washington
$1,317/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 Southeast Washington

Southeast Washington education at a glance

About 33.3% of the population in Southeast Washington went to high school, while 16.5% pursued college studies. Another 3.5% earned an associate degree and 21.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 22.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,978 2.6% 4.6%
High school diploma 38,111 33.3% 2.4%
College diploma 18,894 16.5% -7.3%
Associate degree 3,990 3.5% -8.9%
Bachelor's degree 24,704 21.6% 3.6%
Graduate degree 25,840 22.6% 4.5%
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 Southeast Washington

How much people earn in Southeast Washington

The average annual household income in Southeast Washington was $107,985 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,296, reflecting a +2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Southeast Washington
$107,985/year
3.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Southeast Washington
$58,296/year
2.2% year-over-year change

Southeast Washington income by age

In Southeast Washington, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $67,410. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,716 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $71,566, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,516 in earnings. Overall, 77.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $71,566 52.4%
25 - 44 $67,410 3.0%
45 - 64 $70,716 1.3%
Over 65 $38,516 4.8%
Above poverty level
111,130
Below poverty level
32,211
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 111,130 77.5% -1.1%
Below poverty level 32,211 22.5% 7.5%

Employment in Southeast Washington

Workforce and job types in Southeast Washington

93.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 6.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.8% run their own businesses, 46.8% are employed by private companies, and 30.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
64,874
Blue collar
4,841
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 64,874 93.1% 1.1%
Blue collar 4,841 6.9% -7.3%
Employer type
Self employees
5.8%
Private companies
46.8%
Governmental workers
30.8%
Not for profit companies
16.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,063 5.8% 4.2%
Private companies 32,648 46.8% 0.2%
Governmental workers 21,446 30.8% -0.9%
Not for profit companies 11,559 16.6% 2.6%

Transportation in Southeast Washington

How people get around in Southeast Washington

In Southeast Washington, the average commute time is 84 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 68% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 11.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
84 min
42.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 26,417 68% -3.9%
Taxicab 675 1.7% 20.8%
Bus or trolleybus 6,107 15.7% -5.2%
Railroad 214 0.6% 33.8%
Motorcycle 5 0% -86.1%
Bicycle 1,116 2.9% 1.1%
Walk 4,300 11.1% -0.3%
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 Southeast Washington by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
20002 72,397 35,515 $120,337 $162,223
20003 37,482 19,858 $159,846 $205,745
20019 63,380 26,254 $58,296 $90,435
20020 53,005 22,943 $54,032 $77,584
20032 40,920 17,651 $49,139 $79,503
20390 246 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Southeast Washington demographics 

What is the total population of Southeast Washington?

Southeast Washington has a total population of 149,218 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Southeast Washington?

The gender ratio in Southeast Washington is as follows:
  • 47.4% males (70,657 residents)
  • 52.6% females (78,562 residents)

What is the median age in Southeast Washington?

The median age in Southeast Washington is 34.

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

The age distribution in Southeast Washington is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.8% (29,534 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.6% (15,740 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 36.8% (54,953 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.1% (31,519 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.7% (17,473 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Southeast Washington?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Southeast Washington is as follows:
  • White: 21.4% (31,894 residents)
  • Black or African American: 68.1% (101,573 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (436 residents)
  • Asian: 1.8% (2,708 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (40 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6% (9,011 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (3,556 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.4% of the population in Southeast Washington.

How many housing units are there in Southeast Washington?

There are 76,681 housing units in Southeast Washington, reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Southeast Washington has a total of 68,123 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Southeast Washington?

Southeast Washington has a median household income of $58,296, representing a +2.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Southeast Washington?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 93.1% (64,874 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 6.9% (4,841 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.8% (4,063 residents)
  • Private companies: 46.8% (32,648 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 30.8% (21,446 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 16.6% (11,559 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