Mount Rainier, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,245
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,505/yr
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,034
4.3% year-over-year change

Mount Rainier population

How many people live in Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier is home to 8,245 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.6% of Mount Rainier locals are male, and 52.4% are female.

Total population
8,245
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.6%
3,924
Female
52.4%
4,321
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,924 47.6% -1.1%
Female 4,321 52.4% 1.3%
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 Mount Rainier is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.3% are children under 15, then 7.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33.3% of the population, while another 23.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.3%
15 to 24
7.8%
25 to 44
33.3%
45 to 64
23.1%
Over 65
15.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,677 20.3% -2.0%
15 to 24 643 7.8% -21.1%
25 to 44 2,743 33.3% 2.9%
45 to 64 1,901 23.1% -3.6%
Over 65 1,281 15.5% 19.5%
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 Mount Rainier, 67.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 16% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 16.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 20.2% of locals are Caucasian, 43.2% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
67.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
16%
Non-citizens
16.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,578 67.6% 2.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,319 16% -3.6%
Non-citizens 1,348 16.4% -5.3%
Racial breakdown
White
20.2%
Black or African American
43.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12%
Other
23.3%
Value Percent
White 1,670 20.2%
Black or African American 3,560 43.2%
Asian 99 1.2%
Two or more races 993 12%
Other 1,923 23.3%

Households in Mount Rainier

A peek inside Mount Rainier households

Mount Rainier has 3,934 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 45.4% are families, while the remaining 54.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,934
5.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,148
Family households
1,786
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,148 54.6% 14.9%
Family households 1,786 45.4% -4.7%
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 Mount Rainier

The housing landscape of Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier's housing consists of 4,034 units, with 27.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
4,034
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,105 27.4%
1 unit, attached 37 0.9%
2 units 13 0.3%
3 or 4 units 872 21.6%
5 to 9 units 1,478 36.6%
10 to 19 units 236 5.8%
20 to 49 units 97 2.4%
50 or more units 196 4.9%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mount Rainier

In Mount Rainier, the median construction year is 1958. About 30% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11.6% 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 1,208 30% -5.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 468 11.6% -16.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 444 11% 6.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 277 6.9% 6.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 477 11.8% 24.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 447 11.1% 36.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 461 11.4% 17.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 118 2.9% -4.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 134 3.3% 7.2%
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.

Mount Rainier occupancy rates

Out of the 3,934 occupied housing units in Mount Rainier, 23.5% are owner-occupied, while 76.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,934
5.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,011
Owner occupied
923
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,011 76.5% 6.3%
Owner occupied 923 23.5% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
2.5%
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.

Mount Rainier housing costs

Housing costs in Mount Rainier come to a median of $1,511 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,457.

Median housing costs per month
$1,511/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 Mount Rainier
$1,457/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 Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier education at a glance

About 34.7% of the population in Mount Rainier went to high school, while 19.1% pursued college studies. Another 2.7% earned an associate degree and 20% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 461 7.3% -19.1%
High school diploma 2,198 34.7% 0.3%
College diploma 1,209 19.1% -10.2%
Associate degree 172 2.7% 81.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,264 20% 11.6%
Graduate degree 1,024 16.2% 14.9%
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 Mount Rainier

How much people earn in Mount Rainier

The average annual household income in Mount Rainier was $85,537 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 $68,505, reflecting a +0.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mount Rainier
$85,537/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mount Rainier
$68,505/year
0.3% year-over-year change

Mount Rainier income by age

In Mount Rainier, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,167. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,552 overall. Overall, 93.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $69,167 -3.9%
45 - 64 $70,552 -6.5%
Over 65 $67,721 3.8%
Above poverty level
7,657
Below poverty level
514
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,657 93.7% 0.6%
Below poverty level 514 6.3% -5.7%

Average renter income in Mount Rainier

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Mount Rainier, their median household income was $62,621 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$62,621
Rent-to-income ratio
27.9%
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 Mount Rainier

Workforce and job types in Mount Rainier

The job market in Mount Rainier is powered by 4,705 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.1% run their own businesses, 60.7% are employed by private companies, and 21.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,705
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
3,842
Blue collar
863
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,842 81.7% 3.1%
Blue collar 863 18.3% -9.6%
Employer type
Self employees
6.1%
Private companies
60.7%
Governmental workers
21.9%
Not for profit companies
11.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 288 6.1% 16.6%
Private companies 2,855 60.7% 2.2%
Governmental workers 1,031 21.9% 2.5%
Not for profit companies 531 11.3% -16.1%
Unemployment rate
5.3%
4.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mount Rainier stands at 5.3%, 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 Mount Rainier

How people get around in Mount Rainier

Commuting methods vary: 60.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,724 60.9% -0.7%
Bus or trolleybus 286 6.4% -33.8%
Subway or elevated 445 10% N/A
Bicycle 17 0.4% -37.0%
Walk 103 2.3% 1.0%
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 Mount Rainier by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
20712 9,563 4,384 $68,846 $86,557

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FAQs about Mount Rainier demographics 

What is the total population of Mount Rainier?

Mount Rainier has a total population of 8,245 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mount Rainier?

The gender ratio in Mount Rainier is as follows:
  • 47.6% males (3,924 residents)
  • 52.4% females (4,321 residents)

What is the median age in Mount Rainier?

The median age in Mount Rainier is 40.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Mount Rainier?

The age distribution in Mount Rainier is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.3% (1,677 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.8% (643 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33.3% (2,743 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.1% (1,901 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.5% (1,281 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mount Rainier?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mount Rainier is as follows:
  • White: 20.2% (1,670 residents)
  • Black or African American: 43.2% (3,560 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (99 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12% (993 residents)
  • Other: 23.3% (1,923 residents)

What percentage of the population in Mount Rainier are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 67.6% of the population in Mount Rainier.

How many housing units are there in Mount Rainier?

There are 4,034 housing units in Mount Rainier, reflecting a +4.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Mount Rainier and what is the average household size?

Mount Rainier has a total of 3,934 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mount Rainier?

Mount Rainier has a median household income of $68,505, representing a +0.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Mount Rainier?

The employment rate is 94.7% in Mount Rainier, with a workforce of 4,705 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.7% (3,842 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.3% (863 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.1% (288 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.7% (2,855 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.9% (1,031 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.3% (531 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