San Juan County, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,478
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$84,800/yr
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,990
0.3% year-over-year change

San Juan County population

How many people live in San Juan County

San Juan County is home to 18,478 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of San Juan County locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
18,478
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
9,132
Female
50.6%
9,346
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,132 49.4% 1.6%
Female 9,346 50.6% 0.7%
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 San Juan County is 57, with the population distributed as follows: about 10.2% are children under 15, then 6.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.1% of the population, while another 27.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 36% are 65 or older.

Median age
57
Age breakdown
Under 15
10.2%
15 to 24
6.8%
25 to 44
19.1%
45 to 64
27.9%
Over 65
36%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,880 10.2% 0.8%
15 to 24 1,258 6.8% -3.5%
25 to 44 3,526 19.1% 0.9%
45 to 64 5,158 27.9% -0.8%
Over 65 6,656 36% 4.0%
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 San Juan County, 91.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.6%
Non-citizens
3.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,868 91.3% 1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,043 5.6% -3.9%
Non-citizens 567 3.1% -8.1%
Racial breakdown
White
86.8%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
6.8%
Other
4%
Value Percent
White 16,035 86.8%
Black or African American 45 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 111 0.6%
Asian 248 1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 47 0.2%
Two or more races 1,257 6.8%
Other 735 4%

Households in San Juan County

A peek inside San Juan County households

San Juan County has 9,015 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.8% are families, while the remaining 40.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,015
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,627
Family households
5,388
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,627 40.2% 2.7%
Family households 5,388 59.8% -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 San Juan County

The housing landscape of San Juan County

San Juan County's housing consists of 13,990 units, with 87.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.7% 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 4.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,990
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,236 87.5%
1 unit, attached 243 1.7%
2 units 142 1%
3 or 4 units 176 1.3%
5 to 9 units 210 1.5%
10 to 19 units 129 0.9%
20 to 49 units 77 0.6%
50 or more units 2 0%
Mobile home 602 4.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 173 1.2%
Homes built since 2020
174
64.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in San Juan County

In San Juan County, the median construction year is 1988. About 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, 18.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 695 5% 1.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 253 1.8% 6.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 530 3.8% -13.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,036 7.4% 0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,661 19% 3.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,268 16.2% 1.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,563 18.3% -4.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,611 18.7% -3.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,199 8.6% 9.0%
Built in 2020 or later 174 1.2% 64.2%
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.

San Juan County occupancy rates

Out of the 9,015 occupied housing units in San Juan County, 78% are owner-occupied, while 22% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 35.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,015
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,984
Owner occupied
7,031
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,984 22% 0.1%
Owner occupied 7,031 78% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
35.6%
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.

San Juan County housing costs

Housing costs in San Juan County come to a median of $1,511 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,512.

Median housing costs per month
$1,511/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 San Juan County
$1,512/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 San Juan County

San Juan County education at a glance

About 19.8% of the population in San Juan County went to high school, while 20% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 29.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 22.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 216 1.3% -19.1%
High school diploma 3,195 19.8% -4.0%
College diploma 3,230 20% 4.8%
Associate degree 1,092 6.8% 1.3%
Bachelor's degree 4,816 29.8% 1.7%
Graduate degree 3,606 22.3% 4.7%
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 San Juan County

How much people earn in San Juan County

The average annual household income in San Juan County was $131,031 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $84,800, reflecting a +1.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in San Juan County
$131,031/year
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in San Juan County
$84,800/year
1.3% year-over-year change

San Juan County income by age

In San Juan County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $83,750. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $107,756 overall. Overall, 88.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $83,750 3.0%
45 - 64 $107,756 7.8%
Over 65 $75,313 -2.7%
Above poverty level
16,133
Below poverty level
2,067
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,133 88.6% 0.4%
Below poverty level 2,067 11.4% 9.8%

Employment in San Juan County

Workforce and job types in San Juan County

The job market in San Juan County is powered by 8,360 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 30.4% run their own businesses, 46.5% are employed by private companies, and 14% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,360
-0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
6,593
Blue collar
1,767
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,593 78.9% 0.7%
Blue collar 1,767 21.1% -3.9%
Employer type
Self employees
30.4%
Private companies
46.5%
Governmental workers
14%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,537 30.4% -0.6%
Private companies 3,887 46.5% -2.2%
Governmental workers 1,166 14% -3.0%
Not for profit companies 770 9.2% 16.5%
Unemployment rate
3.7%
20.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in San Juan County stands at 3.7%, 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 San Juan County

How people get around in San Juan County

Commuting methods vary: 67.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.8% 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 5,512 67.8% -4.3%
Taxicab 1 0% -50.0%
Bus or trolleybus 6 0.1% -14.3%
Ferryboat 70 0.9% 6.1%
Motorcycle 21 0.3% 61.5%
Bicycle 61 0.8% -34.4%
Walk 468 5.8% -3.7%
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 San Juan County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98222 121 58 $106,333 $142,183
98221 23,562 10,617 $96,528 $129,154
98243 327 144 $139,167 $203,011
98245 4,265 2,096 $95,811 $132,251
98250 9,254 4,425 $88,556 $142,196
98261 2,984 1,468 $80,119 $104,162
98279 680 342 $70,417 $107,462
98280 442 242 $80,192 $117,057
98286 155 87 $74,250 $81,579
98297 47 41 $45,625 $73,200

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FAQs about San Juan County demographics 

What is the total population of San Juan County?

San Juan County has a total population of 18,478 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 +1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in San Juan County?

The gender ratio in San Juan County is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (9,132 residents)
  • 50.6% females (9,346 residents)

What is the median age in San Juan County?

The median age in San Juan County is 57.

What is the age distribution of the population in San Juan County?

The age distribution in San Juan County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10.2% (1,880 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 6.8% (1,258 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.1% (3,526 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.9% (5,158 residents)
  • Over 65: 36% (6,656 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of San Juan County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of San Juan County is as follows:
  • White: 86.8% (16,035 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (45 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (111 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (248 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (47 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.8% (1,257 residents)
  • Other: 4% (735 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.3% of the population in San Juan County.

How many housing units are there in San Juan County?

There are 13,990 housing units in San Juan County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

San Juan County has a total of 9,015 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in San Juan County?

San Juan County has a median household income of $84,800, representing a +1.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.3% in San Juan County, with a workforce of 8,360 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.9% (6,593 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.1% (1,767 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 30.4% (2,537 residents)
  • Private companies: 46.5% (3,887 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14% (1,166 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (770 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