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

Total population
47,172
5.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$73,804/yr
5.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
24,674
1.4% year-over-year change

Kittitas County population

How many people live in Kittitas County

Kittitas County is home to 47,172 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Kittitas County locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
47,172
5.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
23,672
Female
49.8%
23,500
Value Percent YoY change
Male 23,672 50.2% 5.2%
Female 23,500 49.8% 5.7%
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 Kittitas County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.8% are children under 15, then 22.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.8% of the population, while another 23.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.8%
15 to 24
22.9%
25 to 44
22.8%
45 to 64
23.4%
Over 65
17%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,514 13.8% 0.4%
15 to 24 10,801 22.9% 20.4%
25 to 44 10,774 22.8% 2.1%
45 to 64 11,043 23.4% 0.1%
Over 65 8,040 17% 4.5%
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 Kittitas County, 93.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.1% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.4%
Non-citizens
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 44,313 93.9% 4.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,617 3.4% 23.4%
Non-citizens 1,242 2.6% 38.5%
Racial breakdown
White
82.1%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.6%
Other
4.9%
Value Percent
White 38,721 82.1%
Black or African American 532 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 237 0.5%
Asian 813 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 25 0%
Two or more races 4,536 9.6%
Other 2,308 4.9%

Households in Kittitas County

A peek inside Kittitas County households

Kittitas County has 19,993 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.9% are families, while the remaining 40.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,993
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,023
Family households
11,970
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,023 40.1% -1.1%
Family households 11,970 59.9% 4.2%
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 Kittitas County

The housing landscape of Kittitas County

Kittitas County's housing consists of 24,674 units, with 70.2% 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 6.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
24,674
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,330 70.2%
1 unit, attached 558 2.3%
2 units 705 2.9%
3 or 4 units 962 3.9%
5 to 9 units 730 3%
10 to 19 units 998 4%
20 to 49 units 1,113 4.5%
50 or more units 666 2.7%
Mobile home 1,506 6.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 106 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
623
134.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kittitas County

In Kittitas County, the median construction year is 1993. About 11.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,912 11.8% 1.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 613 2.5% -13.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 805 3.3% -9.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,493 6% -12.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,145 12.8% -4.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,257 9.2% 3.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,055 16.4% -5.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,246 21.3% 12.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,525 14.3% 1.3%
Built in 2020 or later 623 2.5% 134.2%
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.

Kittitas County occupancy rates

Out of the 19,993 occupied housing units in Kittitas County, 61.5% are owner-occupied, while 38.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 19% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,993
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,699
Owner occupied
12,294
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,699 38.5% 4.3%
Owner occupied 12,294 61.5% 0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
19.0%
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.

Kittitas County housing costs

Housing costs in Kittitas County come to a median of $1,427 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,341.

Median housing costs per month
$1,427/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 Kittitas County
$1,341/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 Kittitas County

Kittitas County education at a glance

About 32.4% of the population in Kittitas County went to high school, while 25.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.5% earned an associate degree and 20.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 487 1.2% 26.2%
High school diploma 12,716 32.4% 2.8%
College diploma 10,110 25.7% 4.8%
Associate degree 3,749 9.5% 7.6%
Bachelor's degree 8,044 20.5% 10.8%
Graduate degree 4,194 10.7% 11.3%
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 Kittitas County

How much people earn in Kittitas County

The average annual household income in Kittitas County was $102,663 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $73,804, reflecting a +5.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kittitas County
$102,663/year
7.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kittitas County
$73,804/year
5.5% year-over-year change

Kittitas County income by age

In Kittitas County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $96,983. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,548 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $33,217, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,458 in earnings. Overall, 85.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $33,217 20.8%
25 - 44 $96,983 2.1%
45 - 64 $95,548 11.9%
Over 65 $66,458 4.7%
Above poverty level
38,468
Below poverty level
6,496
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 38,468 85.6% 5.8%
Below poverty level 6,496 14.4% 6.5%

Employment in Kittitas County

Workforce and job types in Kittitas County

The job market in Kittitas County is powered by 23,022 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.5% run their own businesses, 59.6% are employed by private companies, and 23.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
23,022
5.1% year-over-year change
White collar
18,372
Blue collar
4,650
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 18,372 79.8% 5.5%
Blue collar 4,650 20.2% 3.6%
Employer type
Self employees
11.5%
Private companies
59.6%
Governmental workers
23.1%
Not for profit companies
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,657 11.5% -4.8%
Private companies 13,733 59.6% 10.2%
Governmental workers 5,308 23.1% 2.1%
Not for profit companies 1,324 5.8% -8.6%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
30.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kittitas County stands at 6.3%, 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 Kittitas County

How people get around in Kittitas County

Commuting methods vary: 78% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.4% 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 17,583 78% 5.2%
Taxicab 51 0.2% 70.0%
Bus or trolleybus 82 0.4% 24.2%
Ferryboat 25 0.1% 13.6%
Motorcycle 3 0% -95.9%
Bicycle 276 1.2% 37.3%
Walk 1,221 5.4% -2.2%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Kittitas County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98068 482 229 $100,096 $140,027
98828 1,898 813 $70,197 $94,267
98901 31,366 11,246 $57,392 $77,638
98922 7,688 3,554 $73,603 $117,106
98925 850 329 $97,250 $157,597
98926 34,353 14,161 $71,137 $92,847
98934 775 440 $79,063 $91,627
98940 858 332 $246,441 $279,551
98941 1,076 494 $104,800 $115,874
98943 579 282 $66,750 $80,514

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Kittitas County demographics 

What is the total population of Kittitas County?

Kittitas County has a total population of 47,172 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 +5.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kittitas County?

The gender ratio in Kittitas County is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (23,672 residents)
  • 49.8% females (23,500 residents)

What is the median age in Kittitas County?

The median age in Kittitas County is 35.8.

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

The age distribution in Kittitas County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.8% (6,514 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 22.9% (10,801 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.8% (10,774 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.4% (11,043 residents)
  • Over 65: 17% (8,040 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kittitas County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kittitas County is as follows:
  • White: 82.1% (38,721 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (532 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (237 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (813 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (25 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.6% (4,536 residents)
  • Other: 4.9% (2,308 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.9% of the population in Kittitas County.

How many housing units are there in Kittitas County?

There are 24,674 housing units in Kittitas County, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kittitas County has a total of 19,993 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kittitas County?

Kittitas County has a median household income of $73,804, representing a +5.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.7% in Kittitas County, with a workforce of 23,022 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.8% (18,372 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.2% (4,650 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.5% (2,657 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.6% (13,733 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.1% (5,308 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.8% (1,324 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