Anacortes, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
17,966
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$91,951/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,801
2.4% year-over-year change

Anacortes population

How many people live in Anacortes

Anacortes is home to 17,966 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Anacortes locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
17,966
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
8,867
Female
50.6%
9,099
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,867 49.4% 0.4%
Female 9,099 50.6% 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 Anacortes is 50, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.4% are children under 15, then 8.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.4% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 32% are 65 or older.

Median age
50.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.4%
15 to 24
8.4%
25 to 44
20.4%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
32%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,586 14.4% 1.4%
15 to 24 1,506 8.4% -3.9%
25 to 44 3,656 20.4% -4.4%
45 to 64 4,467 24.9% 2.7%
Over 65 5,751 32% 3.6%
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 Anacortes, 92.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.8% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,607 92.4% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,081 6% 1.4%
Non-citizens 278 1.6% -8.8%
Racial breakdown
White
86.6%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
8.8%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 15,551 86.6%
Black or African American 104 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 141 0.8%
Asian 282 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 40 0.2%
Two or more races 1,578 8.8%
Other 270 1.5%

Households in Anacortes

A peek inside Anacortes households

Anacortes has 8,109 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.7% are families, while the remaining 36.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,109
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,944
Family households
5,165
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,944 36.3% 3.0%
Family households 5,165 63.7% 1.4%
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 Anacortes

The housing landscape of Anacortes

Anacortes's housing consists of 8,801 units, with 76.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.2% 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 1.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,801
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,768 76.9%
1 unit, attached 373 4.2%
2 units 288 3.3%
3 or 4 units 367 4.2%
5 to 9 units 290 3.3%
10 to 19 units 249 2.8%
20 to 49 units 195 2.2%
50 or more units 98 1.1%
Mobile home 141 1.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 32 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
164
209.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Anacortes

In Anacortes, the median construction year is 1989. About 13.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,155 13.1% 0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 249 2.8% -13.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 649 7.4% 3.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 311 3.5% -15.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,137 12.9% 7.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,043 11.8% 2.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,659 18.8% -1.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,554 17.7% 3.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 880 10% 2.6%
Built in 2020 or later 164 1.9% 209.4%
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.

Anacortes occupancy rates

Out of the 8,109 occupied housing units in Anacortes, 69.9% are owner-occupied, while 30.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,109
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,442
Owner occupied
5,667
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,442 30.1% 2.0%
Owner occupied 5,667 69.9% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
7.9%
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.

Anacortes housing costs

Housing costs in Anacortes come to a median of $1,683 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,702.

Median housing costs per month
$1,683/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 Anacortes
$1,702/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 Anacortes

Anacortes education at a glance

About 21.9% of the population in Anacortes went to high school, while 22.8% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 27% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 120 0.8% -29.8%
High school diploma 3,252 21.9% -1.7%
College diploma 3,385 22.8% -2.2%
Associate degree 1,367 9.2% 1.9%
Bachelor's degree 4,013 27% 4.2%
Graduate degree 2,727 18.4% 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 Anacortes

How much people earn in Anacortes

The average annual household income in Anacortes was $124,252 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $91,951, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Anacortes
$124,252/year
5.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Anacortes
$91,951/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Anacortes income by age

In Anacortes, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $107,188. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $113,194 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $75,655, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $75,000 in earnings. Overall, 92.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $75,655 -8.8%
25 - 44 $107,188 1.9%
45 - 64 $113,194 2.4%
Over 65 $75,000 9.3%
Above poverty level
16,388
Below poverty level
1,293
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,388 92.7% 1.4%
Below poverty level 1,293 7.3% -7.0%

Average renter income in Anacortes

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Anacortes, their median household income was $62,553 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$62,553
Rent-to-income ratio
32.7%
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 Anacortes

Workforce and job types in Anacortes

The job market in Anacortes is powered by 7,305 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.8% run their own businesses, 59.3% are employed by private companies, and 17.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,305
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
5,698
Blue collar
1,607
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,698 78% 1.4%
Blue collar 1,607 22% -2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
13.8%
Private companies
59.3%
Governmental workers
17.9%
Not for profit companies
9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,008 13.8% -3.5%
Private companies 4,332 59.3% -0.8%
Governmental workers 1,309 17.9% 1.3%
Not for profit companies 656 9% 15.1%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
10.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Anacortes stands at 4.2%, 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 Anacortes

How people get around in Anacortes

In Anacortes, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 77% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
0.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,860 77% -3.2%
Taxicab 14 0.2% 27.3%
Bus or trolleybus 52 0.7% 26.8%
Ferryboat 35 0.5% 9.4%
Bicycle 103 1.4% 14.4%
Walk 266 3.5% 9.5%
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 Anacortes by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98221 23,562 10,617 $96,528 $129,154

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Anacortes demographics 

What is the total population of Anacortes?

Anacortes has a total population of 17,966 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 Anacortes?

The gender ratio in Anacortes is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (8,867 residents)
  • 50.6% females (9,099 residents)

What is the median age in Anacortes?

The median age in Anacortes is 50.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Anacortes?

The age distribution in Anacortes is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.4% (2,586 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.4% (1,506 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.4% (3,656 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (4,467 residents)
  • Over 65: 32% (5,751 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Anacortes?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Anacortes is as follows:
  • White: 86.6% (15,551 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (104 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (141 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (282 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (40 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.8% (1,578 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (270 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.4% of the population in Anacortes.

How many housing units are there in Anacortes?

There are 8,801 housing units in Anacortes, reflecting a +2.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Anacortes has a total of 8,109 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Anacortes?

Anacortes has a median household income of $91,951, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.8% in Anacortes, with a workforce of 7,305 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78% (5,698 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22% (1,607 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.8% (1,008 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.3% (4,332 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.9% (1,309 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9% (656 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