Northwest Heights - Forest Heights, Portland, OR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
13,085
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$127,596/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,440
2.6% year-over-year change

Northwest Heights - Forest Heights population

How many people live in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

Northwest Heights - Forest Heights is home to 13,085 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Northwest Heights - Forest Heights locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
13,085
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
6,597
Female
49.6%
6,488
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,597 50.4% 0.3%
Female 6,488 49.6% 0.8%
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 Northwest Heights - Forest Heights is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.6% are children under 15, then 11.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30% of the population, while another 26.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
38
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.6%
15 to 24
11.4%
25 to 44
30%
45 to 64
26.8%
Over 65
12.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,559 19.6% -4.5%
15 to 24 1,493 11.4% 2.1%
25 to 44 3,932 30% 0.1%
45 to 64 3,504 26.8% 4.2%
Over 65 1,596 12.2% 1.1%
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 Northwest Heights - Forest Heights, 73.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 60.5% of locals are Caucasian, 1.3% are African American and 25.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
73.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13.5%
Non-citizens
13.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,602 73.4% -0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,762 13.5% 7.2%
Non-citizens 1,721 13.2% -2.5%
Racial breakdown
White
60.5%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
25.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
10%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 7,910 60.5%
Black or African American 172 1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 43 0.3%
Asian 3,324 25.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 12 0.1%
Two or more races 1,304 10%
Other 319 2.4%

Households in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

A peek inside Northwest Heights - Forest Heights households

Northwest Heights - Forest Heights has 5,223 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.9% are families, while the remaining 33.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,223
2.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,727
Family households
3,496
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,727 33.1% 6.1%
Family households 3,496 66.9% 1.1%
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 Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

The housing landscape of Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

Northwest Heights - Forest Heights's housing consists of 5,440 units, with 58.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.9% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,440
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,186 58.6%
1 unit, attached 483 8.9%
2 units 65 1.2%
3 or 4 units 227 4.2%
5 to 9 units 273 5%
10 to 19 units 416 7.6%
20 to 49 units 337 6.2%
50 or more units 434 8%
Mobile home 13 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
177
101.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

In Northwest Heights - Forest Heights, the median construction year is 1976. About 7.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 18.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 420 7.7% -0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 77 1.4% 14.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 188 3.5% -4.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 336 6.2% -7.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 576 10.6% -1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 414 7.6% -1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,196 22% 0.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,052 19.3% 2.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,003 18.4% 6.2%
Built in 2020 or later 177 3.2% 101.1%
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.

Northwest Heights - Forest Heights occupancy rates

Out of the 5,223 occupied housing units in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights, 63.8% are owner-occupied, while 36.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,223
2.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,891
Owner occupied
3,332
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,891 36.2% 3.0%
Owner occupied 3,332 63.8% 2.5%
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.

Northwest Heights - Forest Heights housing costs

Housing costs in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights come to a median of $2,041 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,838.

Median housing costs per month
$2,041/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 Northwest Heights - Forest Heights
$1,838/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 Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

Northwest Heights - Forest Heights education at a glance

About 13% of the population in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights went to high school, while 14.6% pursued college studies. Another 5.1% earned an associate degree and 34.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 31.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 91 0.9% -24.8%
High school diploma 1,284 13% 3.9%
College diploma 1,449 14.6% -2.5%
Associate degree 501 5.1% 2.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,444 34.8% 3.4%
Graduate degree 3,128 31.6% 2.9%
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 Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

How much people earn in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

The average annual household income in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights was $185,606 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $127,596, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights
$185,606/year
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights
$127,596/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Northwest Heights - Forest Heights income by age

In Northwest Heights - Forest Heights, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $128,157. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $167,940 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,032, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $101,392 in earnings. Overall, 94.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,032 19.9%
25 - 44 $128,157 3.6%
45 - 64 $167,940 11.8%
Over 65 $101,392 8.0%
Above poverty level
12,131
Below poverty level
730
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,131 94.3% 0.3%
Below poverty level 730 5.7% 3.4%

Employment in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

Workforce and job types in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

92.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 7.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.2% run their own businesses, 71.1% are employed by private companies, and 10% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
6,368
Blue collar
532
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,368 92.3% 2.5%
Blue collar 532 7.7% -2.7%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
71.1%
Governmental workers
10%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 702 10.2% 7.5%
Private companies 4,904 71.1% 1.1%
Governmental workers 689 10% 4.2%
Not for profit companies 606 8.8% 2.4%

Transportation in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

How people get around in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights

In Northwest Heights - Forest Heights, the average commute time is 4 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
4 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,829 89.2% -5.6%
Bus or trolleybus 131 3% 11.0%
Railroad 6 0.1% -33.3%
Ferryboat 3 0.1% -62.5%
Motorcycle 5 0.1% -16.7%
Bicycle 102 2.4% 10.9%
Walk 216 5% 6.9%
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 Northwest Heights - Forest Heights by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
97210 11,324 7,068 $93,621 $145,691
97229 76,106 28,430 $161,570 $197,923

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FAQs about Northwest Heights - Forest Heights demographics 

What is the total population of Northwest Heights - Forest Heights?

Northwest Heights - Forest Heights has a total population of 13,085 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights?

The gender ratio in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (6,597 residents)
  • 49.6% females (6,488 residents)

What is the median age in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights?

The median age in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights is 38.

What is the age distribution of the population in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights?

The age distribution in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.6% (2,559 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.4% (1,493 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30% (3,932 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.8% (3,504 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.2% (1,596 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Northwest Heights - Forest Heights?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Northwest Heights - Forest Heights is as follows:
  • White: 60.5% (7,910 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (172 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (43 residents)
  • Asian: 25.4% (3,324 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (12 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10% (1,304 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (319 residents)

What percentage of the population in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 73.4% of the population in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights.

How many housing units are there in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights?

There are 5,440 housing units in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights, reflecting a +2.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights and what is the average household size?

Northwest Heights - Forest Heights has a total of 5,223 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Northwest Heights - Forest Heights?

Northwest Heights - Forest Heights has a median household income of $127,596, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Northwest Heights - Forest Heights?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 92.3% (6,368 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 7.7% (532 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (702 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.1% (4,904 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10% (689 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (606 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