Washington demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,816,116
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$98,141/yr
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,306,620
1.4% year-over-year change

Washington population

How many people live in Washington

Washington is home to 7,816,116 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Washington locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
7,816,116
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
3,935,474
Female
49.6%
3,880,642
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,935,474 50.4% 1.0%
Female 3,880,642 49.6% 1.0%
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 is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.5% of the population, while another 24% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
29.5%
45 to 64
24%
Over 65
16.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,381,640 17.7% -0.6%
15 to 24 950,085 12.2% 0.9%
25 to 44 2,308,588 29.5% 1.9%
45 to 64 1,876,618 24% -0.4%
Over 65 1,299,185 16.6% 3.2%
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 Washington, 82.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 65.8% of locals are Caucasian, 4% are African American and 9.8% have Asian roots. Another 1.2% are Indigenous American, 0.7% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.4%
Non-citizens
7.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,462,657 82.7% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 734,407 9.4% 3.6%
Non-citizens 619,052 7.9% 2.4%
Racial breakdown
White
65.8%
Black or African American
4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
9.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.7%
Two or more races
12.8%
Other
5.8%
Value Percent
White 5,141,304 65.8%
Black or African American 311,435 4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 91,528 1.2%
Asian 767,011 9.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 56,718 0.7%
Two or more races 996,740 12.8%
Other 451,380 5.8%

Households in Washington

A peek inside Washington households

Washington has 3,064,820 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.4% are families, while the remaining 36.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,064,820
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,122,408
Family households
1,942,412
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,122,408 36.6% 2.8%
Family households 1,942,412 63.4% 0.7%
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

The housing landscape of Washington

Washington's housing consists of 3,306,620 units, with 61.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.4% 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 5.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,306,620
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,047,311 61.9%
1 unit, attached 145,135 4.4%
2 units 75,519 2.3%
3 or 4 units 115,795 3.5%
5 to 9 units 142,699 4.3%
10 to 19 units 161,494 4.9%
20 to 49 units 157,700 4.8%
50 or more units 270,728 8.2%
Mobile home 181,477 5.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8,762 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
75,547
74.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Washington

In Washington, the median construction year is 1985. About 9.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 317,148 9.6% 0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 140,314 4.2% -1.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 220,387 6.7% -0.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 287,638 8.7% -1.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 469,618 14.2% -1.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 409,674 12.4% 0.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 488,698 14.8% -1.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 498,155 15.1% 1.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 399,441 12.1% 6.4%
Built in 2020 or later 75,547 2.3% 74.2%
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.

Washington occupancy rates

Out of the 3,064,820 occupied housing units in Washington, 63.8% are owner-occupied, while 36.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,064,820
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,110,043
Owner occupied
1,954,777
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,110,043 36.2% 1.8%
Owner occupied 1,954,777 63.8% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
7.3%
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.

Washington housing costs

Housing costs in Washington come to a median of $1,801 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,760.

Median housing costs per month
$1,801/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
$1,760/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

Washington education at a glance

About 28.2% of the population in Washington went to high school, while 21.8% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 22.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 198,267 3.2% 1.9%
High school diploma 1,734,259 28.2% 0.8%
College diploma 1,342,644 21.8% -1.8%
Associate degree 604,352 9.8% 1.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,403,068 22.8% 3.0%
Graduate degree 862,299 14% 4.7%
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

How much people earn in Washington

The average annual household income in Washington was $134,588 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $98,141, reflecting a +3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Washington
$134,588/year
3.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Washington
$98,141/year
3.4% year-over-year change

Washington income by age

In Washington, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $111,241. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $119,043 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,287, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $67,096 in earnings. Overall, 90.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $56,287 2.8%
25 - 44 $111,241 3.8%
45 - 64 $119,043 3.1%
Over 65 $67,096 2.6%
Above poverty level
6,851,870
Below poverty level
751,124
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,851,870 90.1% 1.0%
Below poverty level 751,124 9.9% 1.0%

Employment in Washington

Workforce and job types in Washington

The job market in Washington is powered by 3,819,646 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.8% run their own businesses, 65.6% are employed by private companies, and 16% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,819,646
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
3,033,869
Blue collar
785,777
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,033,869 79.4% 1.5%
Blue collar 785,777 20.6% -0.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.8%
Private companies
65.6%
Governmental workers
16%
Not for profit companies
8.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 372,453 9.8% 0.5%
Private companies 2,504,748 65.6% 0.7%
Governmental workers 610,570 16% 2.5%
Not for profit companies 331,875 8.7% 1.8%
Unemployment rate
5.1%
3.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Washington stands at 5.1%, 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

How people get around in Washington

In Washington, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 71.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
-1.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,721,875 71.9% -1.1%
Taxicab 3,474 0.1% 0.6%
Bus or trolleybus 101,487 2.7% -14.6%
Subway or elevated 4,086 0.1% N/A
Railroad 5,570 0.2% -17.4%
Ferryboat 7,156 0.2% -11.7%
Motorcycle 6,152 0.2% -8.6%
Bicycle 23,969 0.6% -1.9%
Walk 115,120 3% -0.4%
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.

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FAQs about Washington demographics 

What is the total population of Washington?

Washington has a total population of 7,816,116 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Washington?

The gender ratio in Washington is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (3,935,474 residents)
  • 49.6% females (3,880,642 residents)

What is the median age in Washington?

The median age in Washington is 38.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Washington?

The age distribution in Washington is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (1,381,640 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (950,085 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.5% (2,308,588 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24% (1,876,618 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.6% (1,299,185 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Washington?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Washington is as follows:
  • White: 65.8% (5,141,304 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4% (311,435 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (91,528 residents)
  • Asian: 9.8% (767,011 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.7% (56,718 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.8% (996,740 residents)
  • Other: 5.8% (451,380 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.7% of the population in Washington.

How many housing units are there in Washington?

There are 3,306,620 housing units in Washington, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Washington has a total of 3,064,820 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Washington?

Washington has a median household income of $98,141, representing a +3.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.9% in Washington, with a workforce of 3,819,646 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.4% (3,033,869 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.6% (785,777 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.8% (372,453 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.6% (2,504,748 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16% (610,570 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.7% (331,875 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