Seattle, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
754,195
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$123,860/yr
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
393,918
2.9% year-over-year change

Seattle population

How many people live in Seattle

Seattle is home to 754,195 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.9% of Seattle locals are male, and 49.1% are female.

Total population
754,195
1.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.9%
384,156
Female
49.1%
370,039
Value Percent YoY change
Male 384,156 50.9% 1.6%
Female 370,039 49.1% 1.9%
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 Seattle is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.6% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 41.8% of the population, while another 21.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.6%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
41.8%
45 to 64
21.4%
Over 65
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 87,411 11.6% -0.6%
15 to 24 91,675 12.2% 1.0%
25 to 44 315,407 41.8% 3.3%
45 to 64 161,506 21.4% -0.7%
Over 65 98,196 13% 3.6%
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 Seattle, 77.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 60.3% of locals are Caucasian, 6.5% are African American and 17.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
77.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.5%
Non-citizens
10.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 586,060 77.7% 1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 86,850 11.5% 3.6%
Non-citizens 81,285 10.8% 2.5%
Racial breakdown
White
60.3%
Black or African American
6.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
17.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
11.6%
Other
3.1%
Value Percent
White 454,901 60.3%
Black or African American 49,151 6.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4,361 0.6%
Asian 133,100 17.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,868 0.2%
Two or more races 87,457 11.6%
Other 23,357 3.1%

Households in Seattle

A peek inside Seattle households

Seattle has 363,466 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 42% are families, while the remaining 58% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
363,466
3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
210,683
Family households
152,783
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 210,683 58% 4.3%
Family households 152,783 42% 1.2%
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 Seattle

The housing landscape of Seattle

Seattle's housing consists of 393,918 units, with 36.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.1% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
393,918
2.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 144,993 36.8%
1 unit, attached 24,171 6.1%
2 units 8,285 2.1%
3 or 4 units 12,801 3.2%
5 to 9 units 20,529 5.2%
10 to 19 units 29,065 7.4%
20 to 49 units 48,662 12.4%
50 or more units 104,395 26.5%
Mobile home 590 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 427 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
9,425
99.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Seattle

In Seattle, the median construction year is 1976. About 22.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 18.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 89,841 22.8% 0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 28,671 7.3% 0.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 32,742 8.3% 1.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 29,354 7.4% -0.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 27,249 6.9% -1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 29,267 7.4% 1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 27,608 7% -2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 46,412 11.8% 0.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 73,349 18.6% 8.6%
Built in 2020 or later 9,425 2.4% 99.6%
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.

Seattle occupancy rates

Out of the 363,466 occupied housing units in Seattle, 43.7% are owner-occupied, while 56.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
363,466
3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
204,521
Owner occupied
158,945
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 204,521 56.3% 3.9%
Owner occupied 158,945 43.7% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
7.7%
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.

Seattle housing costs

Housing costs in Seattle come to a median of $2,263 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,030.

Median housing costs per month
$2,263/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 Seattle
$2,030/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 Seattle

Seattle education at a glance

About 12.8% of the population in Seattle went to high school, while 14.6% pursued college studies. Another 5.9% earned an associate degree and 37.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 27.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 12,806 2% -5.0%
High school diploma 83,028 12.8% 0.5%
College diploma 95,306 14.6% -2.5%
Associate degree 38,081 5.9% 2.0%
Bachelor's degree 242,749 37.3% 3.0%
Graduate degree 178,402 27.4% 4.5%
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 Seattle

How much people earn in Seattle

The average annual household income in Seattle was $175,209 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $123,860, reflecting a +1.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Seattle
$175,209/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Seattle
$123,860/year
1.5% year-over-year change

Seattle income by age

In Seattle, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $145,392. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $144,590 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,832, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $73,299 in earnings. Overall, 90.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $56,832 1.3%
25 - 44 $145,392 2.3%
45 - 64 $144,590 1.7%
Over 65 $73,299 7.8%
Above poverty level
655,947
Below poverty level
72,342
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 655,947 90.1% 1.7%
Below poverty level 72,342 9.9% 1.9%

Average renter income in Seattle

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Seattle, their median household income was $82,054 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$82,054
Rent-to-income ratio
29.7%
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 Seattle

Workforce and job types in Seattle

The job market in Seattle is powered by 466,720 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 92% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 66.2% are employed by private companies, and 12.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
466,720
1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
429,425
Blue collar
37,295
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 429,425 92% 1.9%
Blue collar 37,295 8% -0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
66.2%
Governmental workers
12.9%
Not for profit companies
11.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 42,775 9.2% 2.9%
Private companies 308,877 66.2% 1.1%
Governmental workers 60,163 12.9% 2.1%
Not for profit companies 54,905 11.8% 4.2%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
11.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Seattle stands at 4.6%, 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 Seattle

How people get around in Seattle

In Seattle, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 41.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
-2.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 189,519 41.4% -1.6%
Taxicab 899 0.2% -15.1%
Bus or trolleybus 42,035 9.2% -17.0%
Subway or elevated 2,736 0.6% N/A
Railroad 164 0% 9.3%
Ferryboat 686 0.2% 6.7%
Motorcycle 778 0.2% 1.4%
Bicycle 11,476 2.5% 1.8%
Walk 36,976 8.1% -0.7%
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 Seattle by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98101 17,153 11,722 $128,882 $176,659
98102 27,333 17,489 $114,925 $164,288
98103 52,671 26,873 $131,154 $186,215
98104 16,542 9,578 $61,460 $95,511
98105 49,767 18,756 $74,349 $152,572
98106 28,690 11,791 $124,212 $146,606
98107 28,776 15,835 $142,662 $181,107
98108 25,529 9,016 $95,780 $137,245
98109 34,328 21,883 $133,663 $181,890
98112 23,921 10,918 $171,572 $287,649

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Seattle demographics 

What is the total population of Seattle?

Seattle has a total population of 754,195 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 +1.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Seattle?

The gender ratio in Seattle is as follows:
  • 50.9% males (384,156 residents)
  • 49.1% females (370,039 residents)

What is the median age in Seattle?

The median age in Seattle is 35.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Seattle?

The age distribution in Seattle is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.6% (87,411 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (91,675 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 41.8% (315,407 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.4% (161,506 residents)
  • Over 65: 13% (98,196 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Seattle?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Seattle is as follows:
  • White: 60.3% (454,901 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.5% (49,151 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (4,361 residents)
  • Asian: 17.6% (133,100 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (1,868 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.6% (87,457 residents)
  • Other: 3.1% (23,357 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 77.7% of the population in Seattle.

How many housing units are there in Seattle?

There are 393,918 housing units in Seattle, reflecting a +2.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Seattle has a total of 363,466 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Seattle?

Seattle has a median household income of $123,860, representing a +1.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Seattle?

The employment rate is 95.4% in Seattle, with a workforce of 466,720 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 92% (429,425 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 8% (37,295 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (42,775 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.2% (308,877 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.9% (60,163 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.8% (54,905 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