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

Total population
112,360
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,531/yr
4.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
46,422
1.2% year-over-year change

Cowlitz County population

How many people live in Cowlitz County

Cowlitz County is home to 112,360 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Cowlitz County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
112,360
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
56,077
Female
50.1%
56,283
Value Percent YoY change
Male 56,077 49.9% 0.4%
Female 56,283 50.1% 1.0%
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 Cowlitz County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.5% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.2% of the population, while another 25.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.5%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
25.2%
45 to 64
25.3%
Over 65
19.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 20,797 18.5% 0.0%
15 to 24 12,617 11.2% -1.1%
25 to 44 28,276 25.2% 1.7%
45 to 64 28,440 25.3% 0.1%
Over 65 22,230 19.8% 2.1%
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 Cowlitz County, 94.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. Another 1.3% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 106,350 94.6% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,320 3% 4.9%
Non-citizens 2,690 2.4% 8.7%
Racial breakdown
White
83.2%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
10.3%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 93,447 83.2%
Black or African American 759 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,452 1.3%
Asian 1,351 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 461 0.4%
Two or more races 11,560 10.3%
Other 3,330 3%

Households in Cowlitz County

A peek inside Cowlitz County households

Cowlitz County has 43,943 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.5% are families, while the remaining 34.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
43,943
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
15,142
Family households
28,801
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 15,142 34.5% 2.7%
Family households 28,801 65.5% 0.5%
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 Cowlitz County

The housing landscape of Cowlitz County

Cowlitz County's housing consists of 46,422 units, with 69.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.3% 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 8.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
46,422
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 32,212 69.4%
1 unit, attached 1,067 2.3%
2 units 1,572 3.4%
3 or 4 units 1,197 2.6%
5 to 9 units 1,268 2.7%
10 to 19 units 1,676 3.6%
20 to 49 units 1,614 3.5%
50 or more units 1,739 3.8%
Mobile home 3,961 8.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 116 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
640
62.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cowlitz County

In Cowlitz County, the median construction year is 1976. About 13.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,348 13.7% -1.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,527 7.6% 4.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,242 9.1% -4.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,554 9.8% -3.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 7,700 16.6% -0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,095 8.8% 6.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,138 13.2% -8.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,631 12.1% 6.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,547 7.6% 20.8%
Built in 2020 or later 640 1.4% 62.0%
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.

Cowlitz County occupancy rates

Out of the 43,943 occupied housing units in Cowlitz County, 68% are owner-occupied, while 32% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
43,943
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
14,067
Owner occupied
29,876
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 14,067 32% -4.3%
Owner occupied 29,876 68% 4.0%
Unoccupied housing units
5.3%
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.

Cowlitz County housing costs

Housing costs in Cowlitz County come to a median of $1,337 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,206.

Median housing costs per month
$1,337/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 Cowlitz County
$1,206/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 Cowlitz County

Cowlitz County education at a glance

About 40.5% of the population in Cowlitz County went to high school, while 27.1% pursued college studies. Another 12.6% earned an associate degree and 11.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,802 3.2% 0.7%
High school diploma 35,305 40.5% 2.9%
College diploma 23,644 27.1% -4.3%
Associate degree 11,007 12.6% 2.9%
Bachelor's degree 9,845 11.3% 4.0%
Graduate degree 4,526 5.2% 4.6%
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 Cowlitz County

How much people earn in Cowlitz County

The average annual household income in Cowlitz County was $95,669 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,531, reflecting a +4.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cowlitz County
$95,669/year
3.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cowlitz County
$76,531/year
4.9% year-over-year change

Cowlitz County income by age

In Cowlitz County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,787. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $93,912 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $67,230, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,222 in earnings. Overall, 87.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $67,230 -4.8%
25 - 44 $86,787 5.2%
45 - 64 $93,912 7.3%
Over 65 $54,222 0.8%
Above poverty level
96,673
Below poverty level
13,415
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 96,673 87.8% 1.8%
Below poverty level 13,415 12.2% -5.3%

Employment in Cowlitz County

Workforce and job types in Cowlitz County

The job market in Cowlitz County is powered by 48,036 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.1% run their own businesses, 66.7% are employed by private companies, and 15% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
48,036
2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
33,337
Blue collar
14,699
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 33,337 69.4% 4.4%
Blue collar 14,699 30.6% -0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
10.1%
Private companies
66.7%
Governmental workers
15%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,833 10.1% 5.1%
Private companies 32,059 66.7% 1.7%
Governmental workers 7,228 15% 6.5%
Not for profit companies 3,916 8.2% 1.8%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
18.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cowlitz County stands at 5.9%, 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 Cowlitz County

How people get around in Cowlitz County

Commuting methods vary: 89.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% 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 41,918 89.6% 2.5%
Bus or trolleybus 192 0.4% -6.8%
Ferryboat 15 0% N/A
Motorcycle 18 0% -67.3%
Bicycle 11 0% -92.2%
Walk 408 0.9% -7.5%
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 Cowlitz County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98603 1,267 395 $78,281 $82,793
98611 9,302 3,539 $86,322 $97,922
98625 7,655 2,915 $116,435 $129,007
98626 26,892 10,342 $75,528 $95,597
98632 50,635 20,613 $66,305 $87,024
98645 2,216 876 $101,429 $126,424
98649 929 368 $73,750 $110,645
98674 17,525 5,844 $94,245 $110,627
98581 419 251 $43,009 $52,954

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FAQs about Cowlitz County demographics 

What is the total population of Cowlitz County?

Cowlitz County has a total population of 112,360 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cowlitz County?

The gender ratio in Cowlitz County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (56,077 residents)
  • 50.1% females (56,283 residents)

What is the median age in Cowlitz County?

The median age in Cowlitz County is 41.5.

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

The age distribution in Cowlitz County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.5% (20,797 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (12,617 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.2% (28,276 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.3% (28,440 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.8% (22,230 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cowlitz County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cowlitz County is as follows:
  • White: 83.2% (93,447 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (759 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (1,452 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (1,351 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (461 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.3% (11,560 residents)
  • Other: 3% (3,330 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.6% of the population in Cowlitz County.

How many housing units are there in Cowlitz County?

There are 46,422 housing units in Cowlitz County, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cowlitz County has a total of 43,943 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cowlitz County?

Cowlitz County has a median household income of $76,531, representing a +4.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.1% in Cowlitz County, with a workforce of 48,036 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.4% (33,337 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.6% (14,699 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.1% (4,833 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.7% (32,059 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15% (7,228 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (3,916 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