Wasco County, OR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
26,552
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$64,175/yr
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,198
0.8% year-over-year change

Wasco County population

How many people live in Wasco County

Wasco County is home to 26,552 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Wasco County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
26,552
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
13,400
Female
49.5%
13,152
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,400 50.5% -0.8%
Female 13,152 49.5% 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 Wasco County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 11.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
41
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
11.1%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
21.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,707 17.7% -1.9%
15 to 24 2,936 11.1% -1.1%
25 to 44 6,815 25.7% 0.2%
45 to 64 6,409 24.1% -1.1%
Over 65 5,685 21.4% 2.2%
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 Wasco County, 89.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 75.4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. Another 2% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 17.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.3%
Non-citizens
6.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,683 89.2% -1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,138 4.3% 25.1%
Non-citizens 1,731 6.5% 4.2%
Racial breakdown
White
75.4%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
17.1%
Other
4.1%
Value Percent
White 20,024 75.4%
Black or African American 114 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 522 2%
Asian 185 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 87 0.3%
Two or more races 4,539 17.1%
Other 1,081 4.1%

Households in Wasco County

A peek inside Wasco County households

Wasco County has 10,563 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.6% are families, while the remaining 42.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
10,563
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,479
Family households
6,084
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,479 42.4% 8.6%
Family households 6,084 57.6% -3.2%
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 Wasco County

The housing landscape of Wasco County

Wasco County's housing consists of 12,198 units, with 63.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% 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 17.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,198
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,721 63.3%
1 unit, attached 380 3.1%
2 units 233 1.9%
3 or 4 units 534 4.4%
5 to 9 units 455 3.7%
10 to 19 units 148 1.2%
20 to 49 units 329 2.7%
50 or more units 109 0.9%
Mobile home 2,176 17.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 113 0.9%
Homes built since 2020
90
40.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wasco County

In Wasco County, the median construction year is 1973. About 17.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,134 17.5% 1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 981 8% 5.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,549 12.7% -3.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 893 7.3% -3.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,953 16% -6.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,160 9.5% 16.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,406 11.5% 0.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,199 9.8% -2.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 833 6.8% 8.9%
Built in 2020 or later 90 0.7% 40.6%
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.

Wasco County occupancy rates

Out of the 10,563 occupied housing units in Wasco County, 67.5% are owner-occupied, while 32.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
10,563
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,432
Owner occupied
7,131
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,432 32.5% -2.4%
Owner occupied 7,131 67.5% 3.4%
Unoccupied housing units
13.4%
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.

Wasco County housing costs

Housing costs in Wasco County come to a median of $1,042 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,008.

Median housing costs per month
$1,042/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 Wasco County
$1,008/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 Wasco County

Wasco County education at a glance

About 35.9% of the population in Wasco County went to high school, while 26.4% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 12.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,254 6% 19.5%
High school diploma 7,488 35.9% -2.5%
College diploma 5,518 26.4% -2.3%
Associate degree 2,295 11% -1.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,698 12.9% 5.8%
Graduate degree 1,617 7.8% 0.8%
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 Wasco County

How much people earn in Wasco County

The average annual household income in Wasco County was $93,059 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $64,175, reflecting a +0.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wasco County
$93,059/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wasco County
$64,175/year
0.9% year-over-year change

Wasco County income by age

In Wasco County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $67,143. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,305 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,381, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,897 in earnings. Overall, 88.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,381 8.0%
25 - 44 $67,143 -7.6%
45 - 64 $78,305 2.8%
Over 65 $51,897 0.6%
Above poverty level
22,759
Below poverty level
2,975
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 22,759 88.4% 0.3%
Below poverty level 2,975 11.6% -4.1%

Employment in Wasco County

Workforce and job types in Wasco County

The job market in Wasco County is powered by 11,904 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.3% run their own businesses, 62.6% are employed by private companies, and 17.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,904
0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
8,457
Blue collar
3,447
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,457 71% -0.8%
Blue collar 3,447 29% 2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
11.3%
Private companies
62.6%
Governmental workers
17.8%
Not for profit companies
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,345 11.3% 5.1%
Private companies 7,447 62.6% 2.5%
Governmental workers 2,120 17.8% -4.3%
Not for profit companies 992 8.3% -13.1%
Unemployment rate
7.7%
-1.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wasco County 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 Wasco County

How people get around in Wasco County

In Wasco County, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
1.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,660 83.3% -4.0%
Bus or trolleybus 59 0.5% -33.0%
Motorcycle 28 0.2% -37.8%
Bicycle 34 0.3% -24.4%
Walk 717 6.2% 71.9%
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 Wasco County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
97037 931 406 $70,000 $93,611
97040 1,842 571 $73,250 $95,964
97057 14 10 $0 $20,520
97058 20,360 8,232 $62,181 $94,611
97063 1,081 543 $58,490 $70,819
97761 2,955 866 $57,000 $79,019
97001 353 60 $39,250 $52,867
97021 1,608 640 $89,500 $95,641

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FAQs about Wasco County demographics 

What is the total population of Wasco County?

Wasco County has a total population of 26,552 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wasco County?

The gender ratio in Wasco County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (13,400 residents)
  • 49.5% females (13,152 residents)

What is the median age in Wasco County?

The median age in Wasco County is 41.

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

The age distribution in Wasco County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (4,707 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.1% (2,936 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (6,815 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (6,409 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.4% (5,685 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wasco County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wasco County is as follows:
  • White: 75.4% (20,024 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (114 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2% (522 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (185 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (87 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 17.1% (4,539 residents)
  • Other: 4.1% (1,081 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.2% of the population in Wasco County.

How many housing units are there in Wasco County?

There are 12,198 housing units in Wasco County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Wasco County has a total of 10,563 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wasco County?

Wasco County has a median household income of $64,175, representing a +0.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.3% in Wasco County, with a workforce of 11,904 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71% (8,457 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29% (3,447 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.3% (1,345 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.6% (7,447 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.8% (2,120 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.3% (992 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