Burien, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
51,513
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$91,318/yr
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,271
0.4% year-over-year change

Burien population

How many people live in Burien

Burien is home to 51,513 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.4% of Burien locals are male, and 48.6% are female.

Total population
51,513
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.4%
26,504
Female
48.6%
25,009
Value Percent YoY change
Male 26,504 51.4% 0.3%
Female 25,009 48.6% 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 Burien is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.7% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.2% of the population, while another 27% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.7%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
28.2%
45 to 64
27%
Over 65
15.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,600 16.7% 0.7%
15 to 24 6,263 12.2% -0.2%
25 to 44 14,523 28.2% -1.9%
45 to 64 13,914 27% 0.9%
Over 65 8,213 15.9% 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 Burien, 72% of the population are US-born citizens, while 15% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 47.7% of locals are Caucasian, 7.7% are African American and 15.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.8% are Indigenous American, 0.8% are Pacific Islanders, while 16% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
72%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
15%
Non-citizens
13%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 37,097 72% -1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 7,716 15% 15.9%
Non-citizens 6,700 13% -4.4%
Racial breakdown
White
47.7%
Black or African American
7.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
15.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.8%
Two or more races
11.6%
Other
16%
Value Percent
White 24,583 47.7%
Black or African American 3,956 7.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 389 0.8%
Asian 7,934 15.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 426 0.8%
Two or more races 5,968 11.6%
Other 8,257 16%

Households in Burien

A peek inside Burien households

Burien has 19,672 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 61.9% are families, while the remaining 38.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,672
-0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
7,492
Family households
12,180
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,492 38.1% -2.7%
Family households 12,180 61.9% 0.3%
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 Burien

The housing landscape of Burien

Burien's housing consists of 21,271 units, with 57.4% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,271
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,214 57.4%
1 unit, attached 651 3.1%
2 units 248 1.2%
3 or 4 units 752 3.5%
5 to 9 units 1,688 7.9%
10 to 19 units 2,108 9.9%
20 to 49 units 1,561 7.3%
50 or more units 1,904 9%
Mobile home 145 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
37
76.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Burien

In Burien, the median construction year is 1966. About 8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,712 8% -1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,645 12.4% -3.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,792 17.8% -8.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,951 18.6% 2.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,165 10.2% 3.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,764 13% 20.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,548 7.3% -9.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,609 7.6% 2.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,048 4.9% -2.1%
Built in 2020 or later 37 0.2% 76.2%
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.

Burien occupancy rates

Out of the 19,672 occupied housing units in Burien, 56.6% are owner-occupied, while 43.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,672
-0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,539
Owner occupied
11,133
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,539 43.4% -0.1%
Owner occupied 11,133 56.6% -1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
7.5%
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.

Burien housing costs

Housing costs in Burien come to a median of $1,925 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,782.

Median housing costs per month
$1,925/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 Burien
$1,782/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 Burien

Burien education at a glance

About 31% of the population in Burien went to high school, while 19.5% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 20.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,546 8.7% 2.0%
High school diploma 12,670 31% -0.9%
College diploma 7,981 19.5% -3.5%
Associate degree 4,109 10% -3.1%
Bachelor's degree 8,337 20.4% 4.5%
Graduate degree 4,234 10.4% 7.8%
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 Burien

How much people earn in Burien

The average annual household income in Burien was $124,873 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $91,318, reflecting a +0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Burien
$124,873/year
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Burien
$91,318/year
0.8% year-over-year change

Burien income by age

In Burien, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $94,530. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $116,103 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $85,706, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $70,168 in earnings. Overall, 87.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $85,706 3.4%
25 - 44 $94,530 -6.8%
45 - 64 $116,103 0.2%
Over 65 $70,168 2.2%
Above poverty level
43,939
Below poverty level
6,454
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 43,939 87.2% -2.3%
Below poverty level 6,454 12.8% 23.3%

Average renter income in Burien

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Burien, their median household income was $60,708 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$60,708
Rent-to-income ratio
35.2%
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 Burien

Workforce and job types in Burien

The job market in Burien is powered by 26,663 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.3% run their own businesses, 67.8% are employed by private companies, and 12.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
26,663
-2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
19,961
Blue collar
6,702
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 19,961 74.9% -4.7%
Blue collar 6,702 25.1% 4.0%
Employer type
Self employees
11.3%
Private companies
67.8%
Governmental workers
12.7%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,017 11.3% 6.6%
Private companies 18,065 67.8% -2.0%
Governmental workers 3,382 12.7% -3.1%
Not for profit companies 2,199 8.2% -16.5%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
25.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Burien stands at 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 Burien

How people get around in Burien

In Burien, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 73.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% 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
-0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 18,993 73.7% -5.6%
Taxicab 25 0.1% 733.3%
Bus or trolleybus 1,221 4.7% -21.4%
Subway or elevated 107 0.4% N/A
Motorcycle 32 0.1% -13.5%
Bicycle 46 0.2% -31.3%
Walk 274 1.1% -16.5%
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 Burien by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98146 28,573 10,617 $102,520 $135,617
98148 9,715 3,954 $87,342 $107,678
98166 22,082 8,961 $114,969 $162,280
98168 35,528 12,260 $88,083 $109,455

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FAQs about Burien demographics 

What is the total population of Burien?

Burien has a total population of 51,513 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 Burien?

The gender ratio in Burien is as follows:
  • 51.4% males (26,504 residents)
  • 48.6% females (25,009 residents)

What is the median age in Burien?

The median age in Burien is 40.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Burien?

The age distribution in Burien is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.7% (8,600 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (6,263 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.2% (14,523 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27% (13,914 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.9% (8,213 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Burien?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Burien is as follows:
  • White: 47.7% (24,583 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.7% (3,956 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (389 residents)
  • Asian: 15.4% (7,934 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.8% (426 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.6% (5,968 residents)
  • Other: 16% (8,257 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 72% of the population in Burien.

How many housing units are there in Burien?

There are 21,271 housing units in Burien, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Burien has a total of 19,672 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Burien?

Burien has a median household income of $91,318, representing a +0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93% in Burien, with a workforce of 26,663 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.9% (19,961 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.1% (6,702 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.3% (3,017 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.8% (18,065 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.7% (3,382 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (2,199 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