Chelan County, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
80,172
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$82,381/yr
5.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
38,677
1.4% year-over-year change

Chelan County population

How many people live in Chelan County

Chelan County is home to 80,172 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Chelan County locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
80,172
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
40,386
Female
49.6%
39,786
Value Percent YoY change
Male 40,386 50.4% 0.8%
Female 39,786 49.6% 0.9%
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 Chelan County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.2% of the population, while another 23.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
25.2%
45 to 64
23.6%
Over 65
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 14,986 18.7% -0.2%
15 to 24 9,360 11.7% 0.8%
25 to 44 20,172 25.2% 2.0%
45 to 64 18,885 23.6% -1.4%
Over 65 16,769 20.9% 2.9%
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 Chelan County, 84.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 67% of locals are Caucasian, 0.5% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. Another 1.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 16% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 14.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6%
Non-citizens
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 68,013 84.8% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,784 6% 2.8%
Non-citizens 7,375 9.2% -1.9%
Racial breakdown
White
67%
Black or African American
0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.1%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
14.4%
Other
16%
Value Percent
White 53,704 67%
Black or African American 425 0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 887 1.1%
Asian 661 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 110 0.1%
Two or more races 11,514 14.4%
Other 12,871 16%

Households in Chelan County

A peek inside Chelan County households

Chelan County has 31,520 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66% are families, while the remaining 34% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
31,520
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
10,730
Family households
20,790
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 10,730 34% 3.9%
Family households 20,790 66% 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 Chelan County

The housing landscape of Chelan County

Chelan County's housing consists of 38,677 units, with 68% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 9.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
38,677
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 26,312 68%
1 unit, attached 767 2%
2 units 1,338 3.5%
3 or 4 units 1,921 5%
5 to 9 units 797 2.1%
10 to 19 units 1,299 3.4%
20 to 49 units 1,320 3.4%
50 or more units 1,133 2.9%
Mobile home 3,762 9.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 28 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
936
108.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Chelan County

In Chelan County, the median construction year is 1983. About 12.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,837 12.5% -3.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,010 5.2% -14.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,400 8.8% 6.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,125 8.1% 7.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,654 12% 0.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,077 10.5% -5.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,879 15.2% 2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,050 15.6% 0.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,709 9.6% 6.9%
Built in 2020 or later 936 2.4% 108.9%
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.

Chelan County occupancy rates

Out of the 31,520 occupied housing units in Chelan County, 64.6% are owner-occupied, while 35.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
31,520
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
11,157
Owner occupied
20,363
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 11,157 35.4% -1.3%
Owner occupied 20,363 64.6% 4.3%
Unoccupied housing units
18.5%
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.

Chelan County housing costs

Housing costs in Chelan County come to a median of $1,262 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,226.

Median housing costs per month
$1,262/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 Chelan County
$1,226/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 Chelan County

Chelan County education at a glance

About 31.2% of the population in Chelan County went to high school, while 22.5% pursued college studies. Another 10.1% earned an associate degree and 19% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,365 7% -2.5%
High school diploma 19,382 31.2% -0.3%
College diploma 13,961 22.5% 0.8%
Associate degree 6,296 10.1% -0.8%
Bachelor's degree 11,823 19% 3.6%
Graduate degree 6,236 10% 6.1%
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 Chelan County

How much people earn in Chelan County

The average annual household income in Chelan County was $112,869 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $82,381, reflecting a +5.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Chelan County
$112,869/year
7.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Chelan County
$82,381/year
5.2% year-over-year change

Chelan County income by age

In Chelan County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $92,553. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $102,035 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $89,706, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $58,100 in earnings. Overall, 91.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $89,706 10.3%
25 - 44 $92,553 4.3%
45 - 64 $102,035 12.0%
Over 65 $58,100 -0.6%
Above poverty level
71,892
Below poverty level
6,526
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 71,892 91.7% 1.4%
Below poverty level 6,526 8.3% -7.5%

Employment in Chelan County

Workforce and job types in Chelan County

The job market in Chelan County is powered by 36,673 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.1% run their own businesses, 62.9% are employed by private companies, and 15.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
36,673
-0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
26,644
Blue collar
10,029
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 26,644 72.6% 0.3%
Blue collar 10,029 27.4% -2.1%
Employer type
Self employees
11.1%
Private companies
62.9%
Governmental workers
15.4%
Not for profit companies
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,080 11.1% -2.7%
Private companies 23,079 62.9% -2.2%
Governmental workers 5,651 15.4% 2.0%
Not for profit companies 3,863 10.5% 11.4%
Unemployment rate
3.7%
-6.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Chelan County stands at 3.7%, 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 Chelan County

How people get around in Chelan County

In Chelan County, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82.4% 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
20 min
3.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 29,661 82.4% -1.0%
Bus or trolleybus 739 2% 34.4%
Motorcycle 49 0.1% -31.9%
Bicycle 239 0.7% -5.2%
Walk 1,250 3.5% -20.9%
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 Chelan County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98801 45,426 17,723 $81,488 $108,683
98811 6 6 $0 $0
98815 7,830 2,859 $88,108 $117,954
98816 7,752 3,198 $82,577 $109,016
98817 233 77 $0 $105,992
98821 1,019 244 $134,233 $162,829
98822 2,394 925 $86,103 $104,109
98826 7,605 3,577 $87,646 $130,330
98828 1,898 813 $70,197 $94,267
98831 3,953 1,277 $82,650 $135,166

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FAQs about Chelan County demographics 

What is the total population of Chelan County?

Chelan County has a total population of 80,172 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Chelan County?

The gender ratio in Chelan County is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (40,386 residents)
  • 49.6% females (39,786 residents)

What is the median age in Chelan County?

The median age in Chelan County is 40.4.

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

The age distribution in Chelan County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (14,986 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (9,360 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.2% (20,172 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.6% (18,885 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.9% (16,769 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Chelan County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Chelan County is as follows:
  • White: 67% (53,704 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.5% (425 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.1% (887 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (661 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (110 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.4% (11,514 residents)
  • Other: 16% (12,871 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.8% of the population in Chelan County.

How many housing units are there in Chelan County?

There are 38,677 housing units in Chelan County, 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 Chelan County and what is the average household size?

Chelan County has a total of 31,520 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Chelan County?

Chelan County has a median household income of $82,381, representing a +5.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.3% in Chelan County, with a workforce of 36,673 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.6% (26,644 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.4% (10,029 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.1% (4,080 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.9% (23,079 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.4% (5,651 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.5% (3,863 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