First Hill, Seattle, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,386
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$106,886/yr
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,498
3.8% year-over-year change

First Hill population

How many people live in First Hill

First Hill is home to 6,386 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 57% of First Hill locals are male, and 43% are female.

Total population
6,386
4.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
57%
3,642
Female
43%
2,744
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,642 57% 4.0%
Female 2,744 43% 4.1%
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 First Hill is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 4.5% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 50.6% of the population, while another 19.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
4.5%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
50.6%
45 to 64
19.2%
Over 65
13.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 285 4.5% 14.0%
15 to 24 801 12.5% -2.9%
25 to 44 3,229 50.6% 5.6%
45 to 64 1,225 19.2% 4.7%
Over 65 847 13.3% 1.6%
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 First Hill, 65.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 14.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 19.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49.2% of locals are Caucasian, 8.7% are African American and 27.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.6% are Pacific Islanders, while 3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
65.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
14.6%
Non-citizens
19.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,181 65.5% 2.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 933 14.6% 2.3%
Non-citizens 1,272 19.9% 11.7%
Racial breakdown
White
49.2%
Black or African American
8.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
27.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.6%
Two or more races
10.1%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 3,145 49.2%
Black or African American 555 8.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 42 0.7%
Asian 1,775 27.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 37 0.6%
Two or more races 644 10.1%
Other 189 3%

Households in First Hill

A peek inside First Hill households

First Hill has 3,914 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 22.2% are families, while the remaining 77.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,914
4.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,043
Family households
871
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,043 77.8% 3.3%
Family households 871 22.2% 10.0%
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 First Hill

The housing landscape of First Hill

First Hill's housing consists of 4,498 units, with 5.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
4,498
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 237 5.3%
1 unit, attached 64 1.4%
2 units 33 0.7%
3 or 4 units 37 0.8%
5 to 9 units 51 1.1%
10 to 19 units 171 3.8%
20 to 49 units 676 15%
50 or more units 3,228 71.8%
Mobile home 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
185
79.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in First Hill

In First Hill, the median construction year is 1997. About 22.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 29.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,005 22.3% -1.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 94 2.1% -23.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 146 3.2% -6.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 238 5.3% -2.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 171 3.8% -4.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 368 8.2% 0.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 328 7.3% -4.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 656 14.6% 7.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,307 29.1% 10.8%
Built in 2020 or later 185 4.1% 79.6%
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.

First Hill occupancy rates

Out of the 3,914 occupied housing units in First Hill, 15% are owner-occupied, while 84.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,914
4.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,324
Owner occupied
589
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,324 84.9% 5.7%
Owner occupied 589 15% -0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
13.0%
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.

First Hill housing costs

Housing costs in First Hill come to a median of $2,132 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,991.

Median housing costs per month
$2,132/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 First Hill
$1,991/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 First Hill

First Hill education at a glance

About 15% of the population in First Hill went to high school, while 14.5% pursued college studies. Another 5.1% earned an associate degree and 34.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 27.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 208 3.4% -10.3%
High school diploma 907 15% 1.6%
College diploma 880 14.5% -1.4%
Associate degree 307 5.1% 10.4%
Bachelor's degree 2,103 34.7% 4.2%
Graduate degree 1,652 27.3% 8.5%
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 First Hill

How much people earn in First Hill

The average annual household income in First Hill was $141,741 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $106,886, reflecting a +0.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in First Hill
$141,741/year
4.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in First Hill
$106,886/year
0.4% year-over-year change

First Hill income by age

In First Hill, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $123,191. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,422 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $80,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,517 in earnings. Overall, 81.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $80,750 -0.3%
25 - 44 $123,191 1.1%
45 - 64 $66,422 -9.6%
Over 65 $52,517 13.6%
Above poverty level
4,982
Below poverty level
1,137
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,982 81.4% 3.2%
Below poverty level 1,137 18.6% 10.6%

Employment in First Hill

Workforce and job types in First Hill

The job market in First Hill is powered by 4,074 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 93.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 6.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6% run their own businesses, 72.7% are employed by private companies, and 9.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,074
3.3% year-over-year change
White collar
3,804
Blue collar
271
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,804 93.4% 3.0%
Blue collar 271 6.6% 7.1%
Employer type
Self employees
6%
Private companies
72.7%
Governmental workers
9.7%
Not for profit companies
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 244 6% -1.2%
Private companies 2,963 72.7% 2.2%
Governmental workers 397 9.7% 2.6%
Not for profit companies 471 11.6% 14.0%
Unemployment rate
6.2%
28.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in First Hill stands at 6.2%, 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 First Hill

How people get around in First Hill

Commuting methods vary: 38.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 38.3% 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 978 38.2% 6.7%
Taxicab 22 0.9% 46.7%
Bus or trolleybus 494 19.3% -14.8%
Ferryboat 4 0.2% 300.0%
Motorcycle 5 0.2% 0.0%
Bicycle 75 2.9% 13.6%
Walk 979 38.3% 4.4%
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 First Hill by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98101 17,153 11,722 $128,882 $176,659
98104 16,542 9,578 $61,460 $95,511
98122 43,234 23,964 $106,886 $161,551

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FAQs about First Hill demographics 

What is the total population of First Hill?

First Hill has a total population of 6,386 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 +4.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in First Hill?

The gender ratio in First Hill is as follows:
  • 57% males (3,642 residents)
  • 43% females (2,744 residents)

What is the median age in First Hill?

The median age in First Hill is 33.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in First Hill?

The age distribution in First Hill is as follows:
  • Under 15: 4.5% (285 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (801 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 50.6% (3,229 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.2% (1,225 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.3% (847 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of First Hill?

The racial and ethnic makeup of First Hill is as follows:
  • White: 49.2% (3,145 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.7% (555 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (42 residents)
  • Asian: 27.8% (1,775 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.6% (37 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.1% (644 residents)
  • Other: 3% (189 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 65.5% of the population in First Hill.

How many housing units are there in First Hill?

There are 4,498 housing units in First Hill, reflecting a +3.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

First Hill has a total of 3,914 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in First Hill?

First Hill has a median household income of $106,886, representing a +0.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for First Hill?

The employment rate is 93.8% in First Hill, with a workforce of 4,074 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 93.4% (3,804 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 6.6% (271 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6% (244 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.7% (2,963 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.7% (397 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.6% (471 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