Cottage Lake, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
22,518
-2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$213,106/yr
8.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,040
-1.1% year-over-year change

Cottage Lake population

How many people live in Cottage Lake

Cottage Lake is home to 22,518 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.1% of Cottage Lake locals are male, and 47.9% are female.

Total population
22,518
-2.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.1%
11,742
Female
47.9%
10,776
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,742 52.1% -1.2%
Female 10,776 47.9% -4.5%
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 Cottage Lake is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 10.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.4% of the population, while another 30.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
10.4%
25 to 44
22.4%
45 to 64
30.3%
Over 65
18.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,215 18.7% -6.1%
15 to 24 2,354 10.4% 1.2%
25 to 44 5,041 22.4% -2.1%
45 to 64 6,828 30.3% -6.5%
Over 65 4,080 18.1% 4.4%
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 Cottage Lake, 81.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 76.7% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 10% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.5% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.1%
Non-citizens
7.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,296 81.2% -3.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,507 11.1% 0.1%
Non-citizens 1,715 7.6% -1.0%
Racial breakdown
White
76.7%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
10%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.5%
Two or more races
10.2%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 17,262 76.7%
Black or African American 46 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 22 0.1%
Asian 2,262 10%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 120 0.5%
Two or more races 2,292 10.2%
Other 514 2.3%

Households in Cottage Lake

A peek inside Cottage Lake households

Cottage Lake has 7,794 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 84.8% are families, while the remaining 15.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,794
-1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,185
Family households
6,609
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,185 15.2% 4.8%
Family households 6,609 84.8% -2.0%
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 Cottage Lake

The housing landscape of Cottage Lake

Cottage Lake's housing consists of 8,040 units, with 97% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,040
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,801 97%
1 unit, attached 83 1%
20 to 49 units 29 0.4%
50 or more units 6 0.1%
Mobile home 112 1.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
72
132.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cottage Lake

In Cottage Lake, the median construction year is 1984. About 1.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 126 1.6% -16.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 79 1% -2.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 128 1.6% 36.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 526 6.5% 29.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,862 23.2% -3.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,228 40.2% -4.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,474 18.3% -2.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 362 4.5% -7.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 183 2.3% 6.4%
Built in 2020 or later 72 0.9% 132.3%
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.

Cottage Lake occupancy rates

Out of the 7,794 occupied housing units in Cottage Lake, 91.2% are owner-occupied, while 8.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,794
-1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
690
Owner occupied
7,104
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 690 8.8% 5.7%
Owner occupied 7,104 91.2% -1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
3.1%
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.

Cottage Lake housing costs

Housing costs in Cottage Lake come to a median of $3,130 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,740.

Median housing costs per month
$3,130/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 Cottage Lake
$2,740/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 Cottage Lake

Cottage Lake education at a glance

About 13.8% of the population in Cottage Lake went to high school, while 14.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.2% earned an associate degree and 38.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 25.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 234 1.4% -20.4%
High school diploma 2,369 13.8% -5.3%
College diploma 2,498 14.6% -2.1%
Associate degree 1,058 6.2% 10.4%
Bachelor's degree 6,657 38.8% -3.3%
Graduate degree 4,348 25.3% -1.1%
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 Cottage Lake

How much people earn in Cottage Lake

The average annual household income in Cottage Lake was $268,066 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $213,106, reflecting a +8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cottage Lake
$268,066/year
5.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cottage Lake
$213,106/year
8.0% year-over-year change

Cottage Lake income by age

In Cottage Lake, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $241,893. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $250,001 overall. Overall, 96.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $241,893 5.5%
45 - 64 $250,001 7.5%
Over 65 $130,240 -1.9%
Above poverty level
21,479
Below poverty level
729
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 21,479 96.7% -2.6%
Below poverty level 729 3.3% 2.0%

Average renter income in Cottage Lake

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Cottage Lake, their median household income was $93,977 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$93,977
Rent-to-income ratio
35%
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 Cottage Lake

Workforce and job types in Cottage Lake

The job market in Cottage Lake is powered by 10,266 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 91.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 8.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.9% run their own businesses, 73.1% are employed by private companies, and 8.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,266
-5.3% year-over-year change
White collar
9,395
Blue collar
871
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,395 91.5% -4.4%
Blue collar 871 8.5% -13.6%
Employer type
Self employees
11.9%
Private companies
73.1%
Governmental workers
8.8%
Not for profit companies
6.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,218 11.9% -9.2%
Private companies 7,506 73.1% -4.9%
Governmental workers 899 8.8% 0.2%
Not for profit companies 643 6.3% -9.2%
Unemployment rate
4.1%
3.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cottage Lake stands at 4.1%, 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 Cottage Lake

How people get around in Cottage Lake

In Cottage Lake, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 63.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,259 63.5% -10.7%
Bus or trolleybus 82 0.8% -12.8%
Motorcycle 59 0.6% 31.1%
Bicycle 13 0.1% -13.3%
Walk 58 0.6% 81.2%
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.

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FAQs about Cottage Lake demographics 

What is the total population of Cottage Lake?

Cottage Lake has a total population of 22,518 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 -2.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cottage Lake?

The gender ratio in Cottage Lake is as follows:
  • 52.1% males (11,742 residents)
  • 47.9% females (10,776 residents)

What is the median age in Cottage Lake?

The median age in Cottage Lake is 44.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cottage Lake?

The age distribution in Cottage Lake is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (4,215 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.4% (2,354 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.4% (5,041 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30.3% (6,828 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.1% (4,080 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cottage Lake?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cottage Lake is as follows:
  • White: 76.7% (17,262 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (46 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (22 residents)
  • Asian: 10% (2,262 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.5% (120 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.2% (2,292 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (514 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.2% of the population in Cottage Lake.

How many housing units are there in Cottage Lake?

There are 8,040 housing units in Cottage Lake, reflecting a -1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cottage Lake has a total of 7,794 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cottage Lake?

Cottage Lake has a median household income of $213,106, representing a +8.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Cottage Lake?

The employment rate is 95.9% in Cottage Lake, with a workforce of 10,266 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 91.5% (9,395 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 8.5% (871 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.9% (1,218 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.1% (7,506 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.8% (899 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.3% (643 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