Pendleton, OR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,950
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,563/yr
-5.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,016
-1.2% year-over-year change

Pendleton population

How many people live in Pendleton

Pendleton is home to 16,950 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 56.5% of Pendleton locals are male, and 43.5% are female.

Total population
16,950
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
56.5%
9,573
Female
43.5%
7,377
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,573 56.5% -0.8%
Female 7,377 43.5% -0.6%
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 Pendleton is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.2% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.8% of the population, while another 20.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.2%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
28.8%
45 to 64
20.7%
Over 65
17.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,427 20.2% -1.4%
15 to 24 2,110 12.4% 8.9%
25 to 44 4,875 28.8% -1.3%
45 to 64 3,514 20.7% -4.6%
Over 65 3,024 17.8% -0.4%
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 Pendleton, 95.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 81.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,243 95.8% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 510 3% 4.5%
Non-citizens 197 1.2% -20.2%
Racial breakdown
White
81.6%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.8%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.7%
Other
3.5%
Value Percent
White 13,830 81.6%
Black or African American 169 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 310 1.8%
Asian 48 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6 0%
Two or more races 1,988 11.7%
Other 599 3.5%

Households in Pendleton

A peek inside Pendleton households

Pendleton has 6,257 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.1% are families, while the remaining 39.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,257
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,498
Family households
3,759
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,498 39.9% 2.5%
Family households 3,759 60.1% 0.3%
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 Pendleton

The housing landscape of Pendleton

Pendleton's housing consists of 7,016 units, with 60.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.7% 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 4.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,016
-1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,216 60.1%
1 unit, attached 397 5.7%
2 units 626 8.9%
3 or 4 units 199 2.8%
5 to 9 units 318 4.5%
10 to 19 units 325 4.6%
20 to 49 units 493 7%
50 or more units 77 1.1%
Mobile home 315 4.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 50 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
68
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pendleton

In Pendleton, the median construction year is 1963. About 23.6% 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, 9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,653 23.6% 9.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 555 7.9% -15.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,112 15.8% -4.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 559 8% -28.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 678 9.7% -4.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 527 7.5% 16.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 924 13.2% 13.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 629 9% -0.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 311 4.4% -18.8%
Built in 2020 or later 68 1% N/A
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.

Pendleton occupancy rates

Out of the 6,257 occupied housing units in Pendleton, 56.5% are owner-occupied, while 43.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,257
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,720
Owner occupied
3,537
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,720 43.5% 0.0%
Owner occupied 3,537 56.5% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
10.8%
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.

Pendleton housing costs

Housing costs in Pendleton come to a median of $1,087 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $956.

Median housing costs per month
$1,087/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 Pendleton
$956/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 Pendleton

Pendleton education at a glance

About 41.8% of the population in Pendleton went to high school, while 21.8% pursued college studies. Another 11.4% earned an associate degree and 15.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 236 1.8% 16.3%
High school diploma 5,361 41.8% 0.3%
College diploma 2,790 21.8% -8.5%
Associate degree 1,466 11.4% 8.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,947 15.2% -0.6%
Graduate degree 1,013 7.9% -5.5%
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 Pendleton

How much people earn in Pendleton

The average annual household income in Pendleton was $81,302 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,563, reflecting a -5.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pendleton
$81,302/year
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pendleton
$66,563/year
-5.2% year-over-year change

Pendleton income by age

In Pendleton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,473. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,968 overall. Overall, 85.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $80,473 1.8%
45 - 64 $66,968 -6.6%
Over 65 $56,658 -10.1%
Above poverty level
12,902
Below poverty level
2,195
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,902 85.5% -0.8%
Below poverty level 2,195 14.5% 3.2%

Average renter income in Pendleton

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Pendleton, their median household income was $39,293 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$39,293
Rent-to-income ratio
29.2%
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 Pendleton

Workforce and job types in Pendleton

The job market in Pendleton is powered by 6,626 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 54.8% are employed by private companies, and 24% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,626
-3.6% year-over-year change
White collar
5,109
Blue collar
1,517
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,109 77.1% -6.4%
Blue collar 1,517 22.9% 6.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
54.8%
Governmental workers
24%
Not for profit companies
13.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 507 7.6% -15.1%
Private companies 3,631 54.8% -4.0%
Governmental workers 1,592 24% 0.2%
Not for profit companies 896 13.5% -1.6%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
-24.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pendleton stands at 4.9%, 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 Pendleton

How people get around in Pendleton

Commuting methods vary: 86.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% 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 5,754 86.6% -1.9%
Bus or trolleybus 50 0.8% -37.5%
Motorcycle 19 0.3% -20.8%
Walk 227 3.4% -2.2%
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 Pendleton by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
97801 21,575 8,024 $71,639 $85,807

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Pendleton demographics 

What is the total population of Pendleton?

Pendleton has a total population of 16,950 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Pendleton?

The gender ratio in Pendleton is as follows:
  • 56.5% males (9,573 residents)
  • 43.5% females (7,377 residents)

What is the median age in Pendleton?

The median age in Pendleton is 36.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Pendleton?

The age distribution in Pendleton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.2% (3,427 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (2,110 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.8% (4,875 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.7% (3,514 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.8% (3,024 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pendleton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pendleton is as follows:
  • White: 81.6% (13,830 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (169 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.8% (310 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (48 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (6 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.7% (1,988 residents)
  • Other: 3.5% (599 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.8% of the population in Pendleton.

How many housing units are there in Pendleton?

There are 7,016 housing units in Pendleton, reflecting a -1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Pendleton has a total of 6,257 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pendleton?

Pendleton has a median household income of $66,563, representing a -5.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Pendleton?

The employment rate is 95.1% in Pendleton, with a workforce of 6,626 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.1% (5,109 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.9% (1,517 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (507 residents)
  • Private companies: 54.8% (3,631 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 24% (1,592 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.5% (896 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