Port Townsend, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,438
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,606/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,225
2.6% year-over-year change

Port Townsend population

How many people live in Port Townsend

Port Townsend is home to 10,438 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 42.2% of Port Townsend locals are male, and 57.8% are female.

Total population
10,438
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
42.2%
4,404
Female
57.8%
6,034
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,404 42.2% -6.1%
Female 6,034 57.8% 7.8%
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 Port Townsend is 61, with the population distributed as follows: about 8.7% are children under 15, then 8.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 16.8% of the population, while another 22.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 43.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
60.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
8.7%
15 to 24
8.1%
25 to 44
16.8%
45 to 64
22.7%
Over 65
43.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 911 8.7% 16.4%
15 to 24 844 8.1% -6.2%
25 to 44 1,758 16.8% 1.6%
45 to 64 2,374 22.7% -10.7%
Over 65 4,551 43.6% 7.9%
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 Port Townsend, 94.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.9% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.3%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,824 94.1% 3.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 446 4.3% 2.5%
Non-citizens 168 1.6% -47.3%
Racial breakdown
White
89.9%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.4%
Other
2.1%
Value Percent
White 9,384 89.9%
Black or African American 72 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 32 0.3%
Asian 55 0.5%
Two or more races 673 6.4%
Other 222 2.1%

Households in Port Townsend

A peek inside Port Townsend households

Port Townsend has 5,683 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48.2% are families, while the remaining 51.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,683
3.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,946
Family households
2,737
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,946 51.8% 7.1%
Family households 2,737 48.2% 0.3%
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 Port Townsend

The housing landscape of Port Townsend

Port Townsend's housing consists of 6,225 units, with 75% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.7% 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 5.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,225
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,672 75%
1 unit, attached 169 2.7%
2 units 94 1.5%
3 or 4 units 247 4%
5 to 9 units 62 1%
10 to 19 units 160 2.6%
20 to 49 units 306 4.9%
50 or more units 178 2.9%
Mobile home 337 5.4%
Homes built since 2020
105
303.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Port Townsend

In Port Townsend, the median construction year is 1981. About 23.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,439 23.1% 21.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 255 4.1% 7.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 194 3.1% -12.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 349 5.6% -9.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 816 13.1% -9.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 757 12.2% -6.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 740 11.9% -3.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 986 15.8% 0.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 584 9.4% 6.0%
Built in 2020 or later 105 1.7% 303.9%
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.

Port Townsend occupancy rates

Out of the 5,683 occupied housing units in Port Townsend, 67.9% are owner-occupied, while 32.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,683
3.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,822
Owner occupied
3,861
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,822 32.1% 13.2%
Owner occupied 3,861 67.9% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
8.7%
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.

Port Townsend housing costs

Housing costs in Port Townsend come to a median of $1,215 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,578.

Median housing costs per month
$1,215/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 Port Townsend
$1,578/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 Port Townsend

Port Townsend education at a glance

About 17.8% of the population in Port Townsend went to high school, while 23% pursued college studies. Another 7.2% earned an associate degree and 29.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 21.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 123 1.3% 19.4%
High school diploma 1,645 17.8% 4.7%
College diploma 2,117 23% -2.9%
Associate degree 666 7.2% -8.3%
Bachelor's degree 2,695 29.2% 8.7%
Graduate degree 1,969 21.4% -4.2%
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 Port Townsend

How much people earn in Port Townsend

The average annual household income in Port Townsend was $82,353 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,606, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Port Townsend
$82,353/year
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Port Townsend
$62,606/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Port Townsend income by age

In Port Townsend, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,341. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,810 overall. Overall, 86.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $64,341 3.1%
45 - 64 $58,810 -2.0%
Over 65 $60,932 6.8%
Above poverty level
8,904
Below poverty level
1,389
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,904 86.5% 2.4%
Below poverty level 1,389 13.5% -3.9%

Average renter income in Port Townsend

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Port Townsend, their median household income was $43,046 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 44%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$43,046
Rent-to-income ratio
44%
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 Port Townsend

Workforce and job types in Port Townsend

The job market in Port Townsend is powered by 3,623 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 21.2% run their own businesses, 39.6% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,623
3.1% year-over-year change
White collar
2,939
Blue collar
684
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,939 81.1% 4.8%
Blue collar 684 18.9% -3.5%
Employer type
Self employees
21.2%
Private companies
39.6%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
25%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 769 21.2% -19.2%
Private companies 1,435 39.6% 5.7%
Governmental workers 515 14.2% -13.3%
Not for profit companies 904 25% 48.4%
Unemployment rate
10.4%
-18.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Port Townsend stands at 10.4%, 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 Port Townsend

How people get around in Port Townsend

In Port Townsend, the average commute time is 15 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 59.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 11.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
15 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,156 59.9% 1.1%
Bicycle 40 1.1% -49.4%
Walk 416 11.6% 94.4%
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 Port Townsend by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98368 17,304 8,839 $69,688 $101,732

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FAQs about Port Townsend demographics 

What is the total population of Port Townsend?

Port Townsend has a total population of 10,438 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 +1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Port Townsend?

The gender ratio in Port Townsend is as follows:
  • 42.2% males (4,404 residents)
  • 57.8% females (6,034 residents)

What is the median age in Port Townsend?

The median age in Port Townsend is 60.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Port Townsend?

The age distribution in Port Townsend is as follows:
  • Under 15: 8.7% (911 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.1% (844 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 16.8% (1,758 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.7% (2,374 residents)
  • Over 65: 43.6% (4,551 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Port Townsend?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Port Townsend is as follows:
  • White: 89.9% (9,384 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (72 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (32 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (55 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.4% (673 residents)
  • Other: 2.1% (222 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.1% of the population in Port Townsend.

How many housing units are there in Port Townsend?

There are 6,225 housing units in Port Townsend, reflecting a +2.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Port Townsend has a total of 5,683 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Port Townsend?

Port Townsend has a median household income of $62,606, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Port Townsend?

The employment rate is 89.6% in Port Townsend, with a workforce of 3,623 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.1% (2,939 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.9% (684 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 21.2% (769 residents)
  • Private companies: 39.6% (1,435 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (515 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 25% (904 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