Rock Island, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,251
9.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,861/yr
26.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
450
8.7% year-over-year change

Rock Island population

How many people live in Rock Island

Rock Island is home to 1,251 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.1% of Rock Island locals are male, and 53.9% are female.

Total population
1,251
9.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.1%
577
Female
53.9%
674
Value Percent YoY change
Male 577 46.1% 14.5%
Female 674 53.9% 5.6%
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 Rock Island is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.9% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.5% of the population, while another 23.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.9%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
26.5%
45 to 64
23.1%
Over 65
15%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 274 21.9% 14.2%
15 to 24 168 13.4% 21.7%
25 to 44 332 26.5% 5.7%
45 to 64 289 23.1% -6.2%
Over 65 188 15% 32.4%
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 Rock Island, 81.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.9% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 12.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5%
Non-citizens
13.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,015 81.1% 9.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 62 5% 12.7%
Non-citizens 174 13.9% 10.1%
Racial breakdown
White
46%
Black or African American
1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.4%
Other
39.6%
Value Percent
White 575 46%
Black or African American 21 1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4 0.3%
Two or more races 155 12.4%
Other 496 39.6%

Households in Rock Island

A peek inside Rock Island households

Rock Island has 443 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 81.7% are families, while the remaining 18.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
443
8.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
81
Family households
362
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 81 18.3% -22.9%
Family households 362 81.7% 19.9%
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 Rock Island

The housing landscape of Rock Island

Rock Island's housing consists of 450 units, with 63.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 34.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
450
8.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 285 63.3%
Mobile home 156 34.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 2%
Homes built since 2020
18
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rock Island

In Rock Island, the median construction year is 1977. About 4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 18 4% 38.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 18 4% 5.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 14 3.1% 40.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 83 18.4% 2.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 130 28.9% 11.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 49 10.9% 28.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 43 9.6% -25.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 13 2.9% 85.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 64 14.2% -12.3%
Built in 2020 or later 18 4% 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.

Rock Island occupancy rates

Out of the 443 occupied housing units in Rock Island, 83.3% are owner-occupied, while 16.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 1.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
443
8.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
74
Owner occupied
369
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 74 16.7% 13.8%
Owner occupied 369 83.3% 7.9%
Unoccupied housing units
1.6%
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.

Rock Island housing costs

Housing costs in Rock Island come to a median of $1,103 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,143.

Median housing costs per month
$1,103/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 Rock Island
$1,143/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 Rock Island

Rock Island education at a glance

About 44.7% of the population in Rock Island went to high school, while 17.8% pursued college studies. Another 15% earned an associate degree and 5.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 122 13.6% -12.2%
High school diploma 402 44.7% 13.9%
College diploma 160 17.8% -6.4%
Associate degree 135 15% 82.4%
Bachelor's degree 48 5.3% 2.1%
Graduate degree 32 3.6% 0.0%
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 Rock Island

How much people earn in Rock Island

The average annual household income in Rock Island was $73,245 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +13.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,861, reflecting a +26.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rock Island
$73,245/year
13.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rock Island
$69,861/year
26.8% year-over-year change

Rock Island income by age

In Rock Island, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,607. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $42,037 overall. Overall, 89.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $120,750 N/A
25 - 44 $91,607 8.6%
45 - 64 $42,037 1.0%
Above poverty level
1,103
Below poverty level
128
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,103 89.6% 8.6%
Below poverty level 128 10.4% 20.8%

Employment in Rock Island

Workforce and job types in Rock Island

The job market in Rock Island is powered by 554 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 54% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 46% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.7% run their own businesses, 73.8% are employed by private companies, and 15.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
554
8.4% year-over-year change
White collar
299
Blue collar
255
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 299 54% 2.4%
Blue collar 255 46% 16.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8.7%
Private companies
73.8%
Governmental workers
15.7%
Not for profit companies
1.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 48 8.7% 6.7%
Private companies 409 73.8% 15.9%
Governmental workers 87 15.7% -2.2%
Not for profit companies 10 1.8% -58.3%
Unemployment rate
2.6%
66.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rock Island stands at 2.6%, 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 Rock Island

How people get around in Rock Island

Commuting methods vary: 91.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% 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 505 91.2% 9.8%
Motorcycle 2 0.4% -50.0%
Walk 18 3.2% -10.0%
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 Rock Island by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98850 2,032 684 $83,125 $82,836

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FAQs about Rock Island demographics 

What is the total population of Rock Island?

Rock Island has a total population of 1,251 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 +9.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Rock Island?

The gender ratio in Rock Island is as follows:
  • 46.1% males (577 residents)
  • 53.9% females (674 residents)

What is the median age in Rock Island?

The median age in Rock Island is 37.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Rock Island?

The age distribution in Rock Island is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.9% (274 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (168 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.5% (332 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.1% (289 residents)
  • Over 65: 15% (188 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rock Island?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rock Island is as follows:
  • White: 46% (575 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.7% (21 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (4 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.4% (155 residents)
  • Other: 39.6% (496 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.1% of the population in Rock Island.

How many housing units are there in Rock Island?

There are 450 housing units in Rock Island, reflecting a +8.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Rock Island has a total of 443 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rock Island?

Rock Island has a median household income of $69,861, representing a +26.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Rock Island?

The employment rate is 97.4% in Rock Island, with a workforce of 554 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 54% (299 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 46% (255 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.7% (48 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.8% (409 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.7% (87 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 1.8% (10 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