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

Total population
155,709
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$77,747/yr
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
64,145
0.3% year-over-year change

Washington County population

How many people live in Washington County

Washington County is home to 155,709 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Washington County locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
155,709
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
79,089
Female
49.2%
76,620
Value Percent YoY change
Male 79,089 50.8% 0.5%
Female 76,620 49.2% 0.4%
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 Washington County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.8% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.8% of the population, while another 26.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.8%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
25.8%
45 to 64
26.2%
Over 65
18.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 27,670 17.8% -0.4%
15 to 24 18,830 12.1% 0.8%
25 to 44 40,218 25.8% 1.5%
45 to 64 40,838 26.2% -1.2%
Over 65 28,153 18.1% 2.0%
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 Washington County, 92.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.9% of locals are Caucasian, 11.6% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.6%
Non-citizens
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 143,438 92.1% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 7,160 4.6% -0.4%
Non-citizens 5,111 3.3% 5.0%
Racial breakdown
White
74.9%
Black or African American
11.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9.3%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 116,696 74.9%
Black or African American 18,030 11.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 331 0.2%
Asian 2,531 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 117 0.1%
Two or more races 14,429 9.3%
Other 3,575 2.3%

Households in Washington County

A peek inside Washington County households

Washington County has 59,818 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.6% are families, while the remaining 34.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
59,818
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
20,610
Family households
39,208
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 20,610 34.4% 3.9%
Family households 39,208 65.6% -0.9%
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 Washington County

The housing landscape of Washington County

Washington County's housing consists of 64,145 units, with 62.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 14.8% 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 2.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
64,145
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 40,335 62.9%
1 unit, attached 9,496 14.8%
2 units 2,199 3.4%
3 or 4 units 2,131 3.3%
5 to 9 units 2,794 4.4%
10 to 19 units 3,324 5.2%
20 to 49 units 1,284 2%
50 or more units 1,074 1.7%
Mobile home 1,499 2.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0%
Homes built since 2020
583
116.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Washington County

In Washington County, the median construction year is 1974. About 19.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,321 19.2% -2.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,649 4.1% -7.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 6,830 10.6% 1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,744 10.5% 0.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,134 12.7% 4.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,642 10.4% -7.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 7,928 12.4% 3.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,672 13.5% 2.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,642 5.7% 2.2%
Built in 2020 or later 583 0.9% 116.7%
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.

Washington County occupancy rates

Out of the 59,818 occupied housing units in Washington County, 66.8% are owner-occupied, while 33.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
59,818
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
19,882
Owner occupied
39,936
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 19,882 33.2% -1.9%
Owner occupied 39,936 66.8% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
6.7%
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.

Washington County housing costs

Housing costs in Washington County come to a median of $1,207 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,147.

Median housing costs per month
$1,207/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 Washington County
$1,147/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 Washington County

Washington County education at a glance

About 45.1% of the population in Washington County went to high school, while 21.4% pursued college studies. Another 8.1% earned an associate degree and 13.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,777 3.1% 9.2%
High school diploma 54,960 45.1% -1.0%
College diploma 26,032 21.4% -0.3%
Associate degree 9,867 8.1% 4.6%
Bachelor's degree 16,329 13.4% 3.1%
Graduate degree 10,874 8.9% 1.2%
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 Washington County

How much people earn in Washington County

The average annual household income in Washington County was $99,335 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $77,747, reflecting a +4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Washington County
$99,335/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Washington County
$77,747/year
4.8% year-over-year change

Washington County income by age

In Washington County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $88,569. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,826 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,071, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,121 in earnings. Overall, 87.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,071 12.2%
25 - 44 $88,569 6.5%
45 - 64 $94,826 3.0%
Over 65 $56,121 7.3%
Above poverty level
128,590
Below poverty level
18,037
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 128,590 87.7% 0.6%
Below poverty level 18,037 12.3% 0.0%

Employment in Washington County

Workforce and job types in Washington County

The job market in Washington County is powered by 71,392 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.1% run their own businesses, 64.9% are employed by private companies, and 18.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
71,392
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
54,289
Blue collar
17,103
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 54,289 76% 0.9%
Blue collar 17,103 24% -0.3%
Employer type
Self employees
8.1%
Private companies
64.9%
Governmental workers
18.7%
Not for profit companies
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,801 8.1% 3.9%
Private companies 46,364 64.9% -0.4%
Governmental workers 13,322 18.7% 2.3%
Not for profit companies 5,905 8.3% 1.9%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
-13.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Washington County stands at 4.2%, 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 Washington County

How people get around in Washington County

Commuting methods vary: 83.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% 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 58,949 83.4% -1.1%
Taxicab 552 0.8% 24.3%
Bus or trolleybus 676 1% 7.3%
Subway or elevated 22 0% N/A
Railroad 62 0.1% -19.5%
Ferryboat 16 0% -27.3%
Motorcycle 10 0% -60.0%
Bicycle 171 0.2% -17.4%
Walk 1,061 1.5% 22.5%
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 Washington County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21711 929 434 $91,250 $97,459
21713 9,846 3,899 $96,199 $122,596
21719 1,178 494 $65,809 $97,002
21722 6,721 2,222 $88,232 $112,336
21733 1,275 471 $109,896 $112,234
21734 1,076 493 $61,392 $78,112
21740 64,792 25,276 $62,873 $84,503
21742 34,069 13,231 $86,288 $107,829
21746 2,361 0 $0 $0
21750 3,417 1,628 $60,625 $85,331

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FAQs about Washington County demographics 

What is the total population of Washington County?

Washington County has a total population of 155,709 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Washington County?

The gender ratio in Washington County is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (79,089 residents)
  • 49.2% females (76,620 residents)

What is the median age in Washington County?

The median age in Washington County is 40.7.

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

The age distribution in Washington County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.8% (27,670 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (18,830 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.8% (40,218 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.2% (40,838 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.1% (28,153 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Washington County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Washington County is as follows:
  • White: 74.9% (116,696 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11.6% (18,030 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (331 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (2,531 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (117 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.3% (14,429 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (3,575 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.1% of the population in Washington County.

How many housing units are there in Washington County?

There are 64,145 housing units in Washington County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Washington County has a total of 59,818 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Washington County?

Washington County has a median household income of $77,747, representing a +4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.8% in Washington County, with a workforce of 71,392 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76% (54,289 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24% (17,103 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.1% (5,801 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.9% (46,364 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.7% (13,322 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.3% (5,905 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