Mountlake Terrace, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
23,104
7.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$107,687/yr
6.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,210
7.4% year-over-year change

Mountlake Terrace population

How many people live in Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace is home to 23,104 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Mountlake Terrace locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
23,104
7.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
11,426
Female
50.6%
11,678
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,426 49.4% 9.0%
Female 11,678 50.6% 6.8%
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 Mountlake Terrace is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.5% are children under 15, then 9.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 35.8% of the population, while another 23.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.5%
15 to 24
9.5%
25 to 44
35.8%
45 to 64
23.7%
Over 65
16.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,355 14.5% 7.2%
15 to 24 2,186 9.5% -0.2%
25 to 44 8,270 35.8% 12.2%
45 to 64 5,483 23.7% 7.5%
Over 65 3,810 16.5% 5.1%
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 Mountlake Terrace, 78% of the population are US-born citizens, while 13.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 61.6% of locals are Caucasian, 4.2% are African American and 11.5% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 8.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 13.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
13.6%
Non-citizens
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,023 78% 5.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,135 13.6% 37.9%
Non-citizens 1,946 8.4% -7.8%
Racial breakdown
White
61.6%
Black or African American
4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
11.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
13.1%
Other
8.3%
Value Percent
White 14,222 61.6%
Black or African American 970 4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 220 1%
Asian 2,667 11.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 74 0.3%
Two or more races 3,026 13.1%
Other 1,925 8.3%

Households in Mountlake Terrace

A peek inside Mountlake Terrace households

Mountlake Terrace has 9,855 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.4% are families, while the remaining 42.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,855
8.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,202
Family households
5,653
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,202 42.6% 11.1%
Family households 5,653 57.4% 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 Mountlake Terrace

The housing landscape of Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace's housing consists of 10,210 units, with 50.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% 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 1.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,210
7.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,162 50.6%
1 unit, attached 489 4.8%
2 units 136 1.3%
3 or 4 units 439 4.3%
5 to 9 units 1,123 11%
10 to 19 units 851 8.3%
20 to 49 units 690 6.8%
50 or more units 1,164 11.4%
Mobile home 156 1.5%
Homes built since 2020
275
66.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mountlake Terrace

In Mountlake Terrace, the median construction year is 1973. About 0.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 51 0.5% -10.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 189 1.8% 5.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,110 20.7% 0.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,352 23% 7.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,470 14.4% -7.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,796 17.6% 24.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 641 6.3% -9.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 481 4.7% 45.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 845 8.3% 11.9%
Built in 2020 or later 275 2.7% 66.7%
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.

Mountlake Terrace occupancy rates

Out of the 9,855 occupied housing units in Mountlake Terrace, 56.9% are owner-occupied, while 43.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,855
8.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,249
Owner occupied
5,606
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,249 43.1% 6.2%
Owner occupied 5,606 56.9% 9.5%
Unoccupied housing units
3.5%
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.

Mountlake Terrace housing costs

Housing costs in Mountlake Terrace come to a median of $2,032 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,004.

Median housing costs per month
$2,032/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 Mountlake Terrace
$2,004/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 Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace education at a glance

About 26.1% of the population in Mountlake Terrace went to high school, while 18.8% pursued college studies. Another 11.2% earned an associate degree and 27.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 544 2.8% -10.7%
High school diploma 5,001 26.1% 14.7%
College diploma 3,599 18.8% -0.3%
Associate degree 2,149 11.2% 7.6%
Bachelor's degree 5,283 27.5% 12.9%
Graduate degree 2,609 13.6% 9.8%
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 Mountlake Terrace

How much people earn in Mountlake Terrace

The average annual household income in Mountlake Terrace was $135,606 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $107,687, reflecting a +6.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mountlake Terrace
$135,606/year
7.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mountlake Terrace
$107,687/year
6.2% year-over-year change

Mountlake Terrace income by age

In Mountlake Terrace, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $132,298. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $109,459 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $59,567, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $72,654 in earnings. Overall, 93% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $59,567 4.0%
25 - 44 $132,298 10.7%
45 - 64 $109,459 3.5%
Over 65 $72,654 -0.0%
Above poverty level
21,247
Below poverty level
1,606
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 21,247 93% 9.5%
Below poverty level 1,606 7% -5.6%

Average renter income in Mountlake Terrace

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Mountlake Terrace, their median household income was $71,211 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$71,211
Rent-to-income ratio
33.8%
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 Mountlake Terrace

Workforce and job types in Mountlake Terrace

The job market in Mountlake Terrace is powered by 13,050 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.7% run their own businesses, 68.9% are employed by private companies, and 11.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,050
11.9% year-over-year change
White collar
10,466
Blue collar
2,584
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,466 80.2% 11.6%
Blue collar 2,584 19.8% 13.3%
Employer type
Self employees
10.7%
Private companies
68.9%
Governmental workers
11.6%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,400 10.7% 10.2%
Private companies 8,989 68.9% 12.4%
Governmental workers 1,513 11.6% 4.6%
Not for profit companies 1,148 8.8% 21.6%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
-4.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mountlake Terrace stands at 4.2%, 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 Mountlake Terrace

How people get around in Mountlake Terrace

In Mountlake Terrace, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 71.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% 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
-10.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,259 71.6% 13.9%
Bus or trolleybus 367 2.8% -14.2%
Subway or elevated 16 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 28 0.2% -22.2%
Bicycle 82 0.6% 173.3%
Walk 124 1% 21.6%
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 Mountlake Terrace by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98043 23,101 9,843 $107,687 $135,568

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FAQs about Mountlake Terrace demographics 

What is the total population of Mountlake Terrace?

Mountlake Terrace has a total population of 23,104 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 +7.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mountlake Terrace?

The gender ratio in Mountlake Terrace is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (11,426 residents)
  • 50.6% females (11,678 residents)

What is the median age in Mountlake Terrace?

The median age in Mountlake Terrace is 38.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Mountlake Terrace?

The age distribution in Mountlake Terrace is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.5% (3,355 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.5% (2,186 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 35.8% (8,270 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.7% (5,483 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.5% (3,810 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mountlake Terrace?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mountlake Terrace is as follows:
  • White: 61.6% (14,222 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.2% (970 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (220 residents)
  • Asian: 11.5% (2,667 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (74 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13.1% (3,026 residents)
  • Other: 8.3% (1,925 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 78% of the population in Mountlake Terrace.

How many housing units are there in Mountlake Terrace?

There are 10,210 housing units in Mountlake Terrace, reflecting a +7.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Mountlake Terrace has a total of 9,855 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mountlake Terrace?

Mountlake Terrace has a median household income of $107,687, representing a +6.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Mountlake Terrace?

The employment rate is 95.8% in Mountlake Terrace, with a workforce of 13,050 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.2% (10,466 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.8% (2,584 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.7% (1,400 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.9% (8,989 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.6% (1,513 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (1,148 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