Fort Washington, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
25,134
-2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$143,333/yr
-1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,897
0.5% year-over-year change

Fort Washington population

How many people live in Fort Washington

Fort Washington is home to 25,134 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.4% of Fort Washington locals are male, and 48.6% are female.

Total population
25,134
-2.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.4%
12,918
Female
48.6%
12,216
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,918 51.4% -1.5%
Female 12,216 48.6% -4.0%
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 Fort Washington is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.6% of the population, while another 29.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
9%
25 to 44
23.6%
45 to 64
29.7%
Over 65
21.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,070 16.2% -5.1%
15 to 24 2,258 9% 0.2%
25 to 44 5,918 23.6% -7.0%
45 to 64 7,455 29.7% -1.2%
Over 65 5,433 21.6% 0.8%
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 Fort Washington, 76.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 12.7% of locals are Caucasian, 59.2% are African American and 7.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13.7%
Non-citizens
10.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,169 76.3% -3.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,436 13.7% 4.6%
Non-citizens 2,529 10.1% -4.9%
Racial breakdown
White
12.7%
Black or African American
59.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
7.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.3%
Other
13.6%
Value Percent
White 3,193 12.7%
Black or African American 14,884 59.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 18 0.1%
Asian 1,789 7.1%
Two or more races 1,826 7.3%
Other 3,424 13.6%

Households in Fort Washington

A peek inside Fort Washington households

Fort Washington has 8,540 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 77% are families, while the remaining 23% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,540
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,965
Family households
6,575
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,965 23% 10.8%
Family households 6,575 77% -2.6%
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 Fort Washington

The housing landscape of Fort Washington

Fort Washington's housing consists of 8,897 units, with 96.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.7% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
8,897
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,570 96.3%
1 unit, attached 153 1.7%
3 or 4 units 8 0.1%
20 to 49 units 55 0.6%
50 or more units 111 1.2%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fort Washington

In Fort Washington, the median construction year is 1979. About 0.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 40 0.4% -24.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 178 2% 49.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 795 8.9% 13.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,434 16.1% 0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,341 26.3% 8.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,566 17.6% -11.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,031 11.6% -11.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,113 12.5% -3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 399 4.5% 30.4%
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.

Fort Washington occupancy rates

Out of the 8,540 occupied housing units in Fort Washington, 91.4% are owner-occupied, while 8.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,540
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
739
Owner occupied
7,801
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 739 8.6% 0.1%
Owner occupied 7,801 91.4% 0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
4.0%
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.

Fort Washington housing costs

Housing costs in Fort Washington come to a median of $2,524 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,690.

Median housing costs per month
$2,524/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 Fort Washington
$2,690/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 Fort Washington

Fort Washington education at a glance

About 26.1% of the population in Fort Washington went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.3% earned an associate degree and 23.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,069 5.2% -7.9%
High school diploma 5,312 26.1% 1.1%
College diploma 4,121 20.2% -4.7%
Associate degree 1,492 7.3% -12.3%
Bachelor's degree 4,715 23.2% -5.5%
Graduate degree 3,660 18% 9.2%
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 Fort Washington

How much people earn in Fort Washington

The average annual household income in Fort Washington was $167,454 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $143,333, reflecting a -1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fort Washington
$167,454/year
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fort Washington
$143,333/year
-1.8% year-over-year change

Fort Washington income by age

In Fort Washington, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $157,670. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $174,578 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $105,664, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $105,758 in earnings. Overall, 94.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $105,664 N/A
25 - 44 $157,670 3.9%
45 - 64 $174,578 3.0%
Over 65 $105,758 -9.5%
Above poverty level
23,223
Below poverty level
1,301
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 23,223 94.7% -2.6%
Below poverty level 1,301 5.3% -5.2%

Average renter income in Fort Washington

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fort Washington, their median household income was $120,795 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$120,795
Rent-to-income ratio
26.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Fort Washington

Workforce and job types in Fort Washington

The job market in Fort Washington is powered by 12,898 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.3% run their own businesses, 51.4% are employed by private companies, and 29.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,898
-3.7% year-over-year change
White collar
10,693
Blue collar
2,205
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,693 82.9% -4.8%
Blue collar 2,205 17.1% 1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8.3%
Private companies
51.4%
Governmental workers
29.4%
Not for profit companies
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,073 8.3% -10.7%
Private companies 6,627 51.4% -5.4%
Governmental workers 3,786 29.4% -4.5%
Not for profit companies 1,412 11% 15.2%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
-11.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fort Washington stands at 5.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Fort Washington

How people get around in Fort Washington

In Fort Washington, the average commute time is 38 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 74.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
38 min
-3.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,491 74.8% -5.4%
Taxicab 52 0.4% -8.8%
Bus or trolleybus 247 2% -4.3%
Subway or elevated 183 1.4% N/A
Walk 140 1.1% 0.7%
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 Fort Washington by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
20744 54,441 19,681 $124,190 $143,321

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Fort Washington demographics 

What is the total population of Fort Washington?

Fort Washington has a total population of 25,134 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 -2.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fort Washington?

The gender ratio in Fort Washington is as follows:
  • 51.4% males (12,918 residents)
  • 48.6% females (12,216 residents)

What is the median age in Fort Washington?

The median age in Fort Washington is 45.9.

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

The age distribution in Fort Washington is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (4,070 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9% (2,258 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.6% (5,918 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.7% (7,455 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.6% (5,433 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fort Washington?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fort Washington is as follows:
  • White: 12.7% (3,193 residents)
  • Black or African American: 59.2% (14,884 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (18 residents)
  • Asian: 7.1% (1,789 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.3% (1,826 residents)
  • Other: 13.6% (3,424 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.3% of the population in Fort Washington.

How many housing units are there in Fort Washington?

There are 8,897 housing units in Fort Washington, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fort Washington has a total of 8,540 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fort Washington?

Fort Washington has a median household income of $143,333, representing a -1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Fort Washington?

The employment rate is 94.1% in Fort Washington, with a workforce of 12,898 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.9% (10,693 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.1% (2,205 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.3% (1,073 residents)
  • Private companies: 51.4% (6,627 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 29.4% (3,786 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11% (1,412 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