Centralia, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,830
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,219/yr
7.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,121
6.5% year-over-year change

Centralia population

How many people live in Centralia

Centralia is home to 18,830 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Centralia locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
18,830
2.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
9,121
Female
51.6%
9,709
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,121 48.4% 3.1%
Female 9,709 51.6% 1.1%
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 Centralia is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28% of the population, while another 22.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
28%
45 to 64
22.5%
Over 65
20.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,057 16.2% -9.6%
15 to 24 2,351 12.5% 6.9%
25 to 44 5,278 28% -2.9%
45 to 64 4,243 22.5% 8.6%
Over 65 3,901 20.7% 10.3%
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 Centralia, 89.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77.3% of locals are Caucasian, 1.2% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 6.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.6%
Non-citizens
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,785 89.1% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 871 4.6% 18.2%
Non-citizens 1,174 6.2% 6.2%
Racial breakdown
White
77.3%
Black or African American
1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
12.5%
Other
6.5%
Value Percent
White 14,563 77.3%
Black or African American 222 1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 128 0.7%
Asian 298 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 31 0.2%
Two or more races 2,360 12.5%
Other 1,228 6.5%

Households in Centralia

A peek inside Centralia households

Centralia has 7,894 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.6% are families, while the remaining 44.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,894
7.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,503
Family households
4,391
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,503 44.4% 6.5%
Family households 4,391 55.6% 7.7%
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 Centralia

The housing landscape of Centralia

Centralia's housing consists of 8,121 units, with 57.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% 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 10% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,121
6.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,702 57.9%
1 unit, attached 334 4.1%
2 units 195 2.4%
3 or 4 units 662 8.2%
5 to 9 units 349 4.3%
10 to 19 units 196 2.4%
20 to 49 units 569 7%
50 or more units 270 3.3%
Mobile home 812 10%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 32 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
60
36.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Centralia

In Centralia, the median construction year is 1977. About 22.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.1% 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 1,845 22.7% -6.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 484 6% 9.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 411 5.1% 28.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 382 4.7% -3.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,422 17.5% 2.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,064 13.1% 24.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,193 14.7% 9.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,009 12.4% 8.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 251 3.1% 33.5%
Built in 2020 or later 60 0.7% 36.4%
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.

Centralia occupancy rates

Out of the 7,894 occupied housing units in Centralia, 60% are owner-occupied, while 40% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,894
7.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,154
Owner occupied
4,740
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,154 40% 3.2%
Owner occupied 4,740 60% 9.9%
Unoccupied housing units
2.8%
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.

Centralia housing costs

Housing costs in Centralia come to a median of $1,144 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,084.

Median housing costs per month
$1,144/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 Centralia
$1,084/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 Centralia

Centralia education at a glance

About 39.8% of the population in Centralia went to high school, while 26% pursued college studies. Another 11.9% earned an associate degree and 12.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 669 4.4% -7.5%
High school diploma 6,075 39.8% -4.8%
College diploma 3,967 26% 5.7%
Associate degree 1,815 11.9% 28.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,938 12.7% 20.1%
Graduate degree 805 5.3% 12.4%
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 Centralia

How much people earn in Centralia

The average annual household income in Centralia was $73,591 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,219, reflecting a +7.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Centralia
$73,591/year
6.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Centralia
$56,219/year
7.3% year-over-year change

Centralia income by age

In Centralia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,371. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $72,443 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,326, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,051 in earnings. Overall, 81% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,326 11.8%
25 - 44 $71,371 6.3%
45 - 64 $72,443 18.9%
Over 65 $37,051 -3.0%
Above poverty level
14,692
Below poverty level
3,439
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,692 81% 2.5%
Below poverty level 3,439 19% 0.5%

Average renter income in Centralia

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Centralia, their median household income was $30,629 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 42.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$30,629
Rent-to-income ratio
42.5%
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 Centralia

Workforce and job types in Centralia

The job market in Centralia is powered by 8,251 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 67.5% are employed by private companies, and 15.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,251
6.2% year-over-year change
White collar
5,945
Blue collar
2,306
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,945 72% 8.0%
Blue collar 2,306 28% 1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
67.5%
Governmental workers
15.3%
Not for profit companies
7.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 794 9.6% -16.0%
Private companies 5,568 67.5% 6.2%
Governmental workers 1,259 15.3% 2.4%
Not for profit companies 630 7.6% 79.5%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
26.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Centralia stands at 5.7%, 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 Centralia

How people get around in Centralia

Commuting methods vary: 87.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% 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 6,929 87.9% 5.4%
Taxicab 23 0.3% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 118 1.5% 2.6%
Railroad 7 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 33 0.4% -15.4%
Walk 167 2.1% -37.7%
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 Centralia by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98531 27,337 11,123 $63,406 $78,974

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FAQs about Centralia demographics 

What is the total population of Centralia?

Centralia has a total population of 18,830 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 +2.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Centralia?

The gender ratio in Centralia is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (9,121 residents)
  • 51.6% females (9,709 residents)

What is the median age in Centralia?

The median age in Centralia is 39.

What is the age distribution of the population in Centralia?

The age distribution in Centralia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (3,057 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (2,351 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28% (5,278 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.5% (4,243 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.7% (3,901 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Centralia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Centralia is as follows:
  • White: 77.3% (14,563 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.2% (222 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (128 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (298 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (31 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.5% (2,360 residents)
  • Other: 6.5% (1,228 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.1% of the population in Centralia.

How many housing units are there in Centralia?

There are 8,121 housing units in Centralia, reflecting a +6.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Centralia has a total of 7,894 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Centralia?

Centralia has a median household income of $56,219, representing a +7.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.3% in Centralia, with a workforce of 8,251 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72% (5,945 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28% (2,306 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (794 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.5% (5,568 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.3% (1,259 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.6% (630 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