The Dalles, OR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
15,917
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,614/yr
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,964
2.2% year-over-year change

The Dalles population

How many people live in The Dalles

The Dalles is home to 15,917 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.9% of The Dalles locals are male, and 53.1% are female.

Total population
15,917
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.9%
7,458
Female
53.1%
8,459
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,458 46.9% -3.5%
Female 8,459 53.1% 2.6%
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 The Dalles is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.1% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28% of the population, while another 21.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.1%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
28%
45 to 64
21.7%
Over 65
20.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,877 18.1% -1.0%
15 to 24 1,946 12.2% 3.4%
25 to 44 4,449 28% 0.8%
45 to 64 3,447 21.7% -4.7%
Over 65 3,198 20.1% 1.3%
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 The Dalles, 89.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 75.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.1%
Non-citizens
6.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 14,288 89.8% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 654 4.1% 17.8%
Non-citizens 975 6.1% -8.2%
Racial breakdown
White
75.6%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
16.9%
Other
5.3%
Value Percent
White 12,033 75.6%
Black or African American 87 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 106 0.7%
Asian 79 0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 72 0.4%
Two or more races 2,691 16.9%
Other 849 5.3%

Households in The Dalles

A peek inside The Dalles households

The Dalles has 6,525 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.6% are families, while the remaining 45.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,525
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,962
Family households
3,563
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,962 45.4% 14.8%
Family households 3,563 54.6% -6.3%
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 The Dalles

The housing landscape of The Dalles

The Dalles's housing consists of 6,964 units, with 65.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% 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 7.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,964
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,547 65.3%
1 unit, attached 335 4.8%
2 units 210 3%
3 or 4 units 430 6.2%
5 to 9 units 356 5.1%
10 to 19 units 131 1.9%
20 to 49 units 295 4.2%
50 or more units 109 1.6%
Mobile home 543 7.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
29
222.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in The Dalles

In The Dalles, the median construction year is 1964. About 20.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,400 20.1% -1.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 710 10.2% 13.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,108 15.9% -3.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 605 8.7% 2.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,033 14.8% -1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 413 5.9% 19.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 659 9.5% -6.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 513 7.4% 6.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 494 7.1% 11.8%
Built in 2020 or later 29 0.4% 222.2%
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.

The Dalles occupancy rates

Out of the 6,525 occupied housing units in The Dalles, 63.2% are owner-occupied, while 36.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,525
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,402
Owner occupied
4,123
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,402 36.8% 1.3%
Owner occupied 4,123 63.2% 2.8%
Unoccupied housing units
6.3%
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.

The Dalles housing costs

Housing costs in The Dalles come to a median of $1,123 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $993.

Median housing costs per month
$1,123/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 The Dalles
$993/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 The Dalles

The Dalles education at a glance

About 33.9% of the population in The Dalles went to high school, while 28.2% pursued college studies. Another 11.3% earned an associate degree and 14% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 702 5.7% -0.1%
High school diploma 4,177 33.9% -5.8%
College diploma 3,478 28.2% 1.1%
Associate degree 1,393 11.3% 2.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,722 14% 9.6%
Graduate degree 862 7% -12.0%
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 The Dalles

How much people earn in The Dalles

The average annual household income in The Dalles was $95,168 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,614, reflecting a -0.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in The Dalles
$95,168/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in The Dalles
$62,614/year
-0.3% year-over-year change

The Dalles income by age

In The Dalles, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,545. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,750 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,934, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,012 in earnings. Overall, 89.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,934 7.7%
25 - 44 $69,545 -8.3%
45 - 64 $77,750 4.0%
Over 65 $52,012 -0.8%
Above poverty level
13,605
Below poverty level
1,668
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,605 89.1% -1.2%
Below poverty level 1,668 10.9% 2.8%

Average renter income in The Dalles

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in The Dalles, their median household income was $38,918 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$38,918
Rent-to-income ratio
30.6%
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 The Dalles

Workforce and job types in The Dalles

The job market in The Dalles is powered by 7,224 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.2% run their own businesses, 64.3% are employed by private companies, and 17.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,224
-1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
5,374
Blue collar
1,850
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,374 74.4% -1.3%
Blue collar 1,850 25.6% -1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
64.3%
Governmental workers
17.9%
Not for profit companies
7.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 734 10.2% 14.9%
Private companies 4,647 64.3% -1.3%
Governmental workers 1,296 17.9% -3.4%
Not for profit companies 547 7.6% -14.4%
Unemployment rate
7.7%
7.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in The Dalles stands at 7.7%, 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 The Dalles

How people get around in The Dalles

Commuting methods vary: 88.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% 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 6,242 88.9% -3.3%
Bus or trolleybus 4 0.1% -84.0%
Bicycle 26 0.4% -3.7%
Walk 126 1.8% 1.6%
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 The Dalles by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
97058 20,360 8,232 $62,181 $94,611

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FAQs about The Dalles demographics 

What is the total population of The Dalles?

The Dalles has a total population of 15,917 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in The Dalles?

The gender ratio in The Dalles is as follows:
  • 46.9% males (7,458 residents)
  • 53.1% females (8,459 residents)

What is the median age in The Dalles?

The median age in The Dalles is 38.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in The Dalles?

The age distribution in The Dalles is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.1% (2,877 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (1,946 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28% (4,449 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.7% (3,447 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.1% (3,198 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of The Dalles?

The racial and ethnic makeup of The Dalles is as follows:
  • White: 75.6% (12,033 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (87 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (106 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (79 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (72 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.9% (2,691 residents)
  • Other: 5.3% (849 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.8% of the population in The Dalles.

How many housing units are there in The Dalles?

There are 6,964 housing units in The Dalles, reflecting a +2.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The Dalles has a total of 6,525 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in The Dalles?

The Dalles has a median household income of $62,614, 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 The Dalles?

The employment rate is 92.3% in The Dalles, with a workforce of 7,224 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.4% (5,374 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.6% (1,850 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (734 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.3% (4,647 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.9% (1,296 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.6% (547 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