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

Total population
2,287,171
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$124,746/yr
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,003,284
1.5% year-over-year change

King County population

How many people live in King County

King County is home to 2,287,171 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.7% of King County locals are male, and 49.3% are female.

Total population
2,287,171
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.7%
1,159,305
Female
49.3%
1,127,866
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,159,305 50.7% 1.1%
Female 1,127,866 49.3% 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 King County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 34.4% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
34.4%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
14%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 370,101 16.2% -0.7%
15 to 24 259,074 11.3% 1.4%
25 to 44 786,115 34.4% 2.0%
45 to 64 550,982 24.1% -0.3%
Over 65 320,899 14% 3.1%
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 King County, 72.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 14.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 54.7% of locals are Caucasian, 6.6% are African American and 20.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.8% are Pacific Islanders, while 5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
72.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
14.2%
Non-citizens
13.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,653,726 72.3% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 325,527 14.2% 4.3%
Non-citizens 307,918 13.5% 3.3%
Racial breakdown
White
54.7%
Black or African American
6.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
20.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.8%
Two or more races
11.6%
Other
5%
Value Percent
White 1,251,054 54.7%
Black or African American 149,956 6.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 14,675 0.6%
Asian 472,849 20.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 17,249 0.8%
Two or more races 266,129 11.6%
Other 115,259 5%

Households in King County

A peek inside King County households

King County has 941,054 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.5% are families, while the remaining 42.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
941,054
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
399,677
Family households
541,377
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 399,677 42.5% 3.2%
Family households 541,377 57.5% 0.1%
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 King County

The housing landscape of King County

King County's housing consists of 1,003,284 units, with 50% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.4% 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
1,003,284
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 501,874 50%
1 unit, attached 54,585 5.4%
2 units 15,598 1.6%
3 or 4 units 38,499 3.8%
5 to 9 units 57,510 5.7%
10 to 19 units 67,005 6.7%
20 to 49 units 82,151 8.2%
50 or more units 171,068 17%
Mobile home 14,084 1.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 910 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
21,259
82.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in King County

In King County, the median construction year is 1983. About 10.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 109,564 10.9% 0.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 45,156 4.5% -1.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 74,569 7.4% 0.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 109,123 10.9% -0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 118,361 11.8% -2.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 135,171 13.5% 0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 115,078 11.5% -1.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 132,735 13.2% 0.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 142,268 14.2% 7.0%
Built in 2020 or later 21,259 2.1% 82.6%
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.

King County occupancy rates

Out of the 941,054 occupied housing units in King County, 55.4% are owner-occupied, while 44.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
941,054
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
419,249
Owner occupied
521,805
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 419,249 44.6% 2.9%
Owner occupied 521,805 55.4% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
6.2%
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.

King County housing costs

Housing costs in King County come to a median of $2,279 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,092.

Median housing costs per month
$2,279/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 King County
$2,092/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 King County

King County education at a glance

About 19.1% of the population in King County went to high school, while 16.6% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 31.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 22% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 56,160 3% 3.5%
High school diploma 352,193 19.1% 0.7%
College diploma 305,976 16.6% -2.6%
Associate degree 140,341 7.6% 1.4%
Bachelor's degree 582,294 31.6% 2.0%
Graduate degree 404,613 22% 4.3%
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 King County

How much people earn in King County

The average annual household income in King County was $176,799 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $124,746, reflecting a +2.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in King County
$176,799/year
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in King County
$124,746/year
2.1% year-over-year change

King County income by age

In King County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $143,048. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $147,614 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $65,321, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $76,893 in earnings. Overall, 91.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $65,321 4.2%
25 - 44 $143,048 3.0%
45 - 64 $147,614 2.9%
Over 65 $76,893 3.1%
Above poverty level
2,042,235
Below poverty level
192,007
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,042,235 91.4% 0.8%
Below poverty level 192,007 8.6% 3.8%

Employment in King County

Workforce and job types in King County

The job market in King County is powered by 1,256,602 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 69.6% are employed by private companies, and 11.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,256,602
0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
1,088,004
Blue collar
168,598
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,088,004 86.6% 1.0%
Blue collar 168,598 13.4% 0.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
69.6%
Governmental workers
11.7%
Not for profit companies
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 120,634 9.6% 1.6%
Private companies 874,045 69.6% 0.6%
Governmental workers 147,499 11.7% 2.1%
Not for profit companies 114,424 9.1% 1.2%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
7.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in King County stands at 4.8%, 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 King County

How people get around in King County

In King County, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 57.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
28 min
-1.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 705,065 57.4% -2.1%
Taxicab 2,115 0.2% -3.3%
Bus or trolleybus 66,334 5.4% -17.5%
Subway or elevated 3,516 0.3% N/A
Railroad 1,571 0.1% -28.2%
Ferryboat 1,013 0.1% 7.4%
Motorcycle 1,493 0.1% -15.0%
Bicycle 13,442 1.1% -2.3%
Walk 52,772 4.3% 0.8%
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 King County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98001 37,460 11,982 $106,791 $128,955
98002 37,509 14,269 $78,684 $90,295
98003 51,619 18,786 $75,319 $93,522
98004 39,897 19,515 $182,545 $266,184
98005 21,846 9,097 $160,849 $241,465
98006 40,009 14,084 $198,150 $256,724
98007 27,692 11,673 $131,109 $169,120
98008 27,242 9,431 $184,583 $253,820
98010 6,857 2,649 $142,048 $170,491
98011 28,963 11,964 $131,667 $167,771

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FAQs about King County demographics 

What is the total population of King County?

King County has a total population of 2,287,171 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 +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in King County?

The gender ratio in King County is as follows:
  • 50.7% males (1,159,305 residents)
  • 49.3% females (1,127,866 residents)

What is the median age in King County?

The median age in King County is 37.4.

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

The age distribution in King County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (370,101 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (259,074 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 34.4% (786,115 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (550,982 residents)
  • Over 65: 14% (320,899 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of King County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of King County is as follows:
  • White: 54.7% (1,251,054 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.6% (149,956 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (14,675 residents)
  • Asian: 20.7% (472,849 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.8% (17,249 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.6% (266,129 residents)
  • Other: 5% (115,259 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 72.3% of the population in King County.

How many housing units are there in King County?

There are 1,003,284 housing units in King County, reflecting a +1.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

King County has a total of 941,054 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in King County?

King County has a median household income of $124,746, representing a +2.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in King County, with a workforce of 1,256,602 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.6% (1,088,004 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.4% (168,598 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (120,634 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.6% (874,045 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.7% (147,499 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.1% (114,424 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