Cheney, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,804
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,503/yr
15.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,079
0.6% year-over-year change

Cheney population

How many people live in Cheney

Cheney is home to 12,804 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.6% of Cheney locals are male, and 53.4% are female.

Total population
12,804
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.6%
5,969
Female
53.4%
6,835
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,969 46.6% 5.0%
Female 6,835 53.4% -4.4%
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 Cheney is 24, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.4% are children under 15, then 40.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.5% of the population, while another 11% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
24.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.4%
15 to 24
40.4%
25 to 44
24.5%
45 to 64
11%
Over 65
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,584 12.4% 0.9%
15 to 24 5,178 40.4% -6.4%
25 to 44 3,137 24.5% 4.1%
45 to 64 1,409 11% 3.5%
Over 65 1,496 11.7% 10.5%
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 Cheney, 93.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 76.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 3.5% have Asian roots. Another 1.6% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 5.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.5%
Non-citizens
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,936 93.2% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 449 3.5% 4.7%
Non-citizens 419 3.3% 12.3%
Racial breakdown
White
76.6%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.6%
Asian
3.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
11.4%
Other
5.5%
Value Percent
White 9,814 76.6%
Black or African American 135 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 202 1.6%
Asian 447 3.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 40 0.3%
Two or more races 1,460 11.4%
Other 706 5.5%

Households in Cheney

A peek inside Cheney households

Cheney has 4,772 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48.2% are families, while the remaining 51.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,772
-1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,472
Family households
2,300
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,472 51.8% -8.3%
Family households 2,300 48.2% 8.0%
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 Cheney

The housing landscape of Cheney

Cheney's housing consists of 5,079 units, with 34.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% 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 3.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,079
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,760 34.6%
1 unit, attached 193 3.8%
2 units 626 12.3%
3 or 4 units 414 8.2%
5 to 9 units 477 9.4%
10 to 19 units 517 10.2%
20 to 49 units 524 10.3%
50 or more units 400 7.9%
Mobile home 168 3.3%
Homes built since 2020
147
104.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cheney

In Cheney, the median construction year is 1991. About 2.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 128 2.5% -24.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 33 0.6% -23.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 283 5.6% -34.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 409 8% -15.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,083 21.3% 8.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 541 10.6% 23.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 603 11.9% -5.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 983 19.4% 8.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 869 17.1% 0.1%
Built in 2020 or later 147 2.9% 104.2%
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.

Cheney occupancy rates

Out of the 4,772 occupied housing units in Cheney, 34.7% are owner-occupied, while 65.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,772
-1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,115
Owner occupied
1,657
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,115 65.3% -6.5%
Owner occupied 1,657 34.7% 10.9%
Unoccupied housing units
6.0%
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.

Cheney housing costs

Housing costs in Cheney come to a median of $1,198 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,156.

Median housing costs per month
$1,198/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 Cheney
$1,156/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 Cheney

Cheney education at a glance

About 20.4% of the population in Cheney went to high school, while 41.4% pursued college studies. Another 12.1% earned an associate degree and 16.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 117 1.1% -0.8%
High school diploma 2,241 20.4% 0.6%
College diploma 4,548 41.4% -6.1%
Associate degree 1,328 12.1% 2.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,835 16.7% 6.0%
Graduate degree 905 8.2% 18.0%
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 Cheney

How much people earn in Cheney

The average annual household income in Cheney was $73,618 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +10.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,503, reflecting a +15.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cheney
$73,618/year
10.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cheney
$54,503/year
15.9% year-over-year change

Cheney income by age

In Cheney, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,375. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,609 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $26,852, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $84,141 in earnings. Overall, 69.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $26,852 7.0%
25 - 44 $68,375 18.0%
45 - 64 $89,609 -9.0%
Over 65 $84,141 32.0%
Above poverty level
7,776
Below poverty level
3,456
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,776 69.2% 4.6%
Below poverty level 3,456 30.8% -9.9%

Average renter income in Cheney

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Cheney, their median household income was $25,515 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 54.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$25,515
Rent-to-income ratio
54.4%
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 Cheney

Workforce and job types in Cheney

The job market in Cheney is powered by 6,144 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.1% run their own businesses, 59.5% are employed by private companies, and 22.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,144
-0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
5,059
Blue collar
1,085
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,059 82.3% -2.4%
Blue collar 1,085 17.7% 9.6%
Employer type
Self employees
6.1%
Private companies
59.5%
Governmental workers
22.1%
Not for profit companies
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 374 6.1% -13.6%
Private companies 3,657 59.5% -3.0%
Governmental workers 1,359 22.1% 5.8%
Not for profit companies 754 12.3% 9.8%
Unemployment rate
13.1%
3.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cheney stands at 13.1%, 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 Cheney

How people get around in Cheney

Commuting methods vary: 79.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 9.4% 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 5,012 79.6% 7.6%
Taxicab 14 0.2% 75.0%
Bus or trolleybus 137 2.2% -33.8%
Bicycle 15 0.2% 114.3%
Walk 594 9.4% -15.4%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Cheney by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
99004 22,871 8,629 $67,337 $86,381
99031 1,251 440 $98,182 $103,797
99224 24,919 10,502 $80,770 $110,661

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Cheney demographics 

What is the total population of Cheney?

Cheney has a total population of 12,804 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cheney?

The gender ratio in Cheney is as follows:
  • 46.6% males (5,969 residents)
  • 53.4% females (6,835 residents)

What is the median age in Cheney?

The median age in Cheney is 24.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cheney?

The age distribution in Cheney is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.4% (1,584 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 40.4% (5,178 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.5% (3,137 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 11% (1,409 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.7% (1,496 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cheney?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cheney is as follows:
  • White: 76.6% (9,814 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (135 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.6% (202 residents)
  • Asian: 3.5% (447 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (40 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.4% (1,460 residents)
  • Other: 5.5% (706 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.2% of the population in Cheney.

How many housing units are there in Cheney?

There are 5,079 housing units in Cheney, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cheney has a total of 4,772 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cheney?

Cheney has a median household income of $54,503, representing a +15.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 86.9% in Cheney, with a workforce of 6,144 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.3% (5,059 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.7% (1,085 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.1% (374 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.5% (3,657 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.1% (1,359 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.3% (754 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