Kelso, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,684
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,751/yr
12.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,656
2.5% year-over-year change

Kelso population

How many people live in Kelso

Kelso is home to 12,684 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Kelso locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
12,684
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
6,356
Female
49.9%
6,328
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,356 50.1% -1.4%
Female 6,328 49.9% 1.3%
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 Kelso is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.2% are children under 15, then 11% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.4% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.2%
15 to 24
11%
25 to 44
30.4%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
17.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,176 17.2% -2.8%
15 to 24 1,402 11% -0.8%
25 to 44 3,858 30.4% 2.4%
45 to 64 3,054 24.1% -10.9%
Over 65 2,194 17.3% 18.4%
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 Kelso, 94% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.9% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 1.7% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,922 94% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 306 2.4% 22.9%
Non-citizens 456 3.6% -0.9%
Racial breakdown
White
80.6%
Black or African American
1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
1.7%
Two or more races
12.7%
Other
1.9%
Value Percent
White 10,219 80.6%
Black or African American 246 1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 52 0.4%
Asian 89 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 221 1.7%
Two or more races 1,615 12.7%
Other 242 1.9%

Households in Kelso

A peek inside Kelso households

Kelso has 5,435 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64% are families, while the remaining 36% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,435
2.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,954
Family households
3,481
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,954 36% 2.8%
Family households 3,481 64% 2.7%
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 Kelso

The housing landscape of Kelso

Kelso's housing consists of 5,656 units, with 64% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.2% 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 5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,656
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,617 64%
1 unit, attached 183 3.2%
2 units 434 7.7%
3 or 4 units 371 6.6%
5 to 9 units 75 1.3%
10 to 19 units 210 3.7%
20 to 49 units 254 4.5%
50 or more units 230 4.1%
Mobile home 282 5%
Homes built since 2020
13
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kelso

In Kelso, the median construction year is 1963. About 23.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,316 23.3% -3.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 524 9.3% -7.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 759 13.4% -3.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 713 12.6% -3.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 649 11.5% 5.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 477 8.4% 85.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 344 6.1% -23.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 567 10% 9.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 294 5.2% 30.7%
Built in 2020 or later 13 0.2% N/A
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.

Kelso occupancy rates

Out of the 5,435 occupied housing units in Kelso, 56.1% are owner-occupied, while 43.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,435
2.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,384
Owner occupied
3,051
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,384 43.9% -0.2%
Owner occupied 3,051 56.1% 5.2%
Unoccupied housing units
3.9%
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.

Kelso housing costs

Housing costs in Kelso come to a median of $1,247 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,220.

Median housing costs per month
$1,247/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 Kelso
$1,220/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 Kelso

Kelso education at a glance

About 39.5% of the population in Kelso went to high school, while 31.6% pursued college studies. Another 12.6% earned an associate degree and 9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 474 4.6% 10.8%
High school diploma 4,023 39.5% 1.5%
College diploma 3,217 31.6% -8.7%
Associate degree 1,279 12.6% 18.3%
Bachelor's degree 917 9% 1.0%
Graduate degree 276 2.7% 21.1%
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 Kelso

How much people earn in Kelso

The average annual household income in Kelso was $80,176 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +16.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,751, reflecting a +12.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kelso
$80,176/year
16.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kelso
$66,751/year
12.3% year-over-year change

Kelso income by age

In Kelso, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,318. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,378 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $77,533, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,712 in earnings. Overall, 88.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $77,533 10.0%
25 - 44 $69,318 22.0%
45 - 64 $76,378 20.4%
Over 65 $53,712 -0.3%
Above poverty level
11,016
Below poverty level
1,458
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,016 88.3% 9.2%
Below poverty level 1,458 11.7% -39.5%

Average renter income in Kelso

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Kelso, their median household income was $42,053 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$42,053
Rent-to-income ratio
34.8%
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 Kelso

Workforce and job types in Kelso

The job market in Kelso is powered by 6,204 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.1% run their own businesses, 70% are employed by private companies, and 12.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,204
12.1% year-over-year change
White collar
4,468
Blue collar
1,736
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,468 72% 13.5%
Blue collar 1,736 28% 8.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.1%
Private companies
70%
Governmental workers
12.6%
Not for profit companies
9.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 500 8.1% -9.8%
Private companies 4,345 70% 13.9%
Governmental workers 782 12.6% 41.4%
Not for profit companies 577 9.3% -5.7%
Unemployment rate
6.6%
50.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kelso stands at 6.6%, 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 Kelso

How people get around in Kelso

Commuting methods vary: 91.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.4% 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 5,460 91.2% 11.4%
Bus or trolleybus 8 0.1% -20.0%
Ferryboat 15 0.2% N/A
Walk 142 2.4% 121.9%
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 Kelso by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98626 26,892 10,342 $75,528 $95,597

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FAQs about Kelso demographics 

What is the total population of Kelso?

Kelso has a total population of 12,684 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kelso?

The gender ratio in Kelso is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (6,356 residents)
  • 49.9% females (6,328 residents)

What is the median age in Kelso?

The median age in Kelso is 39.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kelso?

The age distribution in Kelso is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.2% (2,176 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11% (1,402 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.4% (3,858 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (3,054 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.3% (2,194 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kelso?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kelso is as follows:
  • White: 80.6% (10,219 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.9% (246 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (52 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (89 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 1.7% (221 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.7% (1,615 residents)
  • Other: 1.9% (242 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94% of the population in Kelso.

How many housing units are there in Kelso?

There are 5,656 housing units in Kelso, reflecting a +2.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kelso has a total of 5,435 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kelso?

Kelso has a median household income of $66,751, representing a +12.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.4% in Kelso, with a workforce of 6,204 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72% (4,468 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28% (1,736 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.1% (500 residents)
  • Private companies: 70% (4,345 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.6% (782 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.3% (577 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