Ephrata, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,560
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,551/yr
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,347
3.9% year-over-year change

Ephrata population

How many people live in Ephrata

Ephrata is home to 8,560 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53% of Ephrata locals are male, and 47% are female.

Total population
8,560
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53%
4,534
Female
47%
4,026
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,534 53% -1.2%
Female 4,026 47% 3.1%
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 Ephrata is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 26.3% are children under 15, then 13.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.8% of the population, while another 20.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
26.3%
15 to 24
13.7%
25 to 44
25.8%
45 to 64
20.7%
Over 65
13.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,254 26.3% -8.8%
15 to 24 1,174 13.7% 21.8%
25 to 44 2,207 25.8% -4.2%
45 to 64 1,774 20.7% 17.4%
Over 65 1,151 13.4% -7.5%
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 Ephrata, 91.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 72.4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.5% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.2%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,868 91.9% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 364 4.2% 4.0%
Non-citizens 328 3.8% 62.4%
Racial breakdown
White
72.4%
Black or African American
0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.4%
Other
15.4%
Value Percent
White 6,194 72.4%
Black or African American 40 0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 23 0.3%
Asian 9 0.1%
Two or more races 975 11.4%
Other 1,319 15.4%

Households in Ephrata

A peek inside Ephrata households

Ephrata has 3,224 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 70.3% are families, while the remaining 29.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,224
4.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
957
Family households
2,267
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 957 29.7% 1.4%
Family households 2,267 70.3% 6.0%
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 Ephrata

The housing landscape of Ephrata

Ephrata's housing consists of 3,347 units, with 73.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.7% 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 6.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,347
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,467 73.7%
1 unit, attached 57 1.7%
2 units 17 0.5%
3 or 4 units 195 5.8%
5 to 9 units 13 0.4%
20 to 49 units 51 1.5%
50 or more units 328 9.8%
Mobile home 219 6.5%
Homes built since 2020
52
205.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ephrata

In Ephrata, the median construction year is 1970. About 6.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 13.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 210 6.3% 24.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 439 13.1% -10.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 824 24.6% -7.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 177 5.3% -13.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 482 14.4% 11.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 246 7.4% 18.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 300 9% -7.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 360 10.8% 36.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 257 7.7% 15.8%
Built in 2020 or later 52 1.6% 205.9%
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.

Ephrata occupancy rates

Out of the 3,224 occupied housing units in Ephrata, 65.2% are owner-occupied, while 34.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,224
4.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,122
Owner occupied
2,102
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,122 34.8% 3.7%
Owner occupied 2,102 65.2% 5.1%
Unoccupied housing units
3.7%
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.

Ephrata housing costs

Housing costs in Ephrata come to a median of $1,180 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,106.

Median housing costs per month
$1,180/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 Ephrata
$1,106/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 Ephrata

Ephrata education at a glance

About 41.1% of the population in Ephrata went to high school, while 28% pursued college studies. Another 10.5% earned an associate degree and 8.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 323 5.6% 45.5%
High school diploma 2,376 41.1% 9.8%
College diploma 1,619 28% 2.9%
Associate degree 606 10.5% -22.3%
Bachelor's degree 495 8.6% 8.6%
Graduate degree 366 6.3% 12.3%
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 Ephrata

How much people earn in Ephrata

The average annual household income in Ephrata was $76,350 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,551, reflecting a -1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ephrata
$76,350/year
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ephrata
$69,551/year
-1.1% year-over-year change

Ephrata income by age

In Ephrata, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $67,833. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $82,141 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $66,089, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $31,948 in earnings. Overall, 80.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $66,089 5.3%
25 - 44 $67,833 -13.4%
45 - 64 $82,141 0.3%
Over 65 $31,948 -4.5%
Above poverty level
6,628
Below poverty level
1,638
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,628 80.2% -5.0%
Below poverty level 1,638 19.8% 29.7%

Average renter income in Ephrata

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Ephrata, their median household income was $49,393 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$49,393
Rent-to-income ratio
26.9%
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 Ephrata

Workforce and job types in Ephrata

The job market in Ephrata is powered by 3,594 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.3% run their own businesses, 51.7% are employed by private companies, and 27.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,594
5.6% year-over-year change
White collar
2,785
Blue collar
809
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,785 77.5% 8.2%
Blue collar 809 22.5% -2.3%
Employer type
Self employees
13.3%
Private companies
51.7%
Governmental workers
27.8%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 479 13.3% 58.6%
Private companies 1,859 51.7% -10.1%
Governmental workers 999 27.8% 13.5%
Not for profit companies 257 7.2% 66.9%
Unemployment rate
6.1%
30.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ephrata stands at 6.1%, 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 Ephrata

How people get around in Ephrata

Commuting methods vary: 90.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% 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 3,181 90.7% 3.2%
Bus or trolleybus 9 0.3% 0.0%
Motorcycle 12 0.3% -63.6%
Walk 70 2% 268.4%
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 Ephrata by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98823 12,188 4,379 $73,074 $92,547

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FAQs about Ephrata demographics 

What is the total population of Ephrata?

Ephrata has a total population of 8,560 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 Ephrata?

The gender ratio in Ephrata is as follows:
  • 53% males (4,534 residents)
  • 47% females (4,026 residents)

What is the median age in Ephrata?

The median age in Ephrata is 31.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ephrata?

The age distribution in Ephrata is as follows:
  • Under 15: 26.3% (2,254 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.7% (1,174 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.8% (2,207 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.7% (1,774 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.4% (1,151 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ephrata?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ephrata is as follows:
  • White: 72.4% (6,194 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.5% (40 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (23 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (9 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.4% (975 residents)
  • Other: 15.4% (1,319 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.9% of the population in Ephrata.

How many housing units are there in Ephrata?

There are 3,347 housing units in Ephrata, reflecting a +3.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ephrata has a total of 3,224 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ephrata?

Ephrata has a median household income of $69,551, representing a -1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.9% in Ephrata, with a workforce of 3,594 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.5% (2,785 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.5% (809 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.3% (479 residents)
  • Private companies: 51.7% (1,859 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27.8% (999 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (257 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