South Cle Elum, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
579
-18.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,750/yr
10.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
306
-12.1% year-over-year change

South Cle Elum population

How many people live in South Cle Elum

South Cle Elum is home to 579 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of South Cle Elum locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
579
-18.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
279
Female
51.8%
300
Value Percent YoY change
Male 279 48.2% -20.7%
Female 300 51.8% -15.5%
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 South Cle Elum is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.7% are children under 15, then 15% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.5% of the population, while another 29% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.7%
15 to 24
15%
25 to 44
18.5%
45 to 64
29%
Over 65
25.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 68 11.7% -50.7%
15 to 24 87 15% -8.4%
25 to 44 107 18.5% -38.1%
45 to 64 168 29% -7.7%
Over 65 149 25.7% 25.2%
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 South Cle Elum, 99.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. There’s also a share of 15.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 574 99.1% -16.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5 0.9% -70.6%
Racial breakdown
White
79.8%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
15.9%
Other
4.3%
Value Percent
White 462 79.8%
Two or more races 92 15.9%
Other 25 4.3%

Households in South Cle Elum

A peek inside South Cle Elum households

South Cle Elum has 282 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 74.8% are families, while the remaining 25.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
282
-11.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
71
Family households
211
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 71 25.2% -25.3%
Family households 211 74.8% -5.8%
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 South Cle Elum

The housing landscape of South Cle Elum

South Cle Elum's housing consists of 306 units, with 82% 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 8.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
306
-12.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 251 82%
3 or 4 units 11 3.6%
5 to 9 units 18 5.9%
Mobile home 26 8.5%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Cle Elum

In South Cle Elum, the median construction year is 1969. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 112 36.6% -27.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8 2.6% 0.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 35 11.4% -23.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 29 9.5% -9.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 26 8.5% 4.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 40 13.1% 29.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 45 14.7% 9.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 11 3.6% 10.0%
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.

South Cle Elum occupancy rates

Out of the 282 occupied housing units in South Cle Elum, 71.6% are owner-occupied, while 28.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
282
-11.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
80
Owner occupied
202
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 80 28.4% -33.3%
Owner occupied 202 71.6% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
7.8%
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.

South Cle Elum housing costs

Housing costs in South Cle Elum come to a median of $1,708 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,661.

Median housing costs per month
$1,708/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 South Cle Elum
$1,661/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 South Cle Elum

South Cle Elum education at a glance

About 44.2% of the population in South Cle Elum went to high school, while 23.1% pursued college studies. Another 11.2% earned an associate degree and 17% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 8 1.6% -11.1%
High school diploma 226 44.2% -15.7%
College diploma 118 23.1% -3.3%
Associate degree 57 11.2% 46.1%
Bachelor's degree 87 17% -13.9%
Graduate degree 15 2.9% -11.8%
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 South Cle Elum

How much people earn in South Cle Elum

The average annual household income in South Cle Elum was $80,514 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +20.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,750, reflecting a +10.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Cle Elum
$80,514/year
20.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Cle Elum
$66,750/year
10.8% year-over-year change

South Cle Elum income by age

In South Cle Elum, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $110,682. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $105,347 overall. Overall, 86.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $110,682 N/A
45 - 64 $105,347 62.8%
Over 65 $53,000 -4.6%
Above poverty level
499
Below poverty level
80
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 499 86.2% 3.7%
Below poverty level 80 13.8% -64.6%

Employment in South Cle Elum

Workforce and job types in South Cle Elum

The job market in South Cle Elum is powered by 294 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.5% run their own businesses, 69.7% are employed by private companies, and 13.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
294
-11.4% year-over-year change
White collar
218
Blue collar
76
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 218 74.2% -12.8%
Blue collar 76 25.8% -7.3%
Employer type
Self employees
6.5%
Private companies
69.7%
Governmental workers
13.6%
Not for profit companies
10.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 19 6.5% 46.1%
Private companies 205 69.7% -16.0%
Governmental workers 40 13.6% -24.5%
Not for profit companies 30 10.2% 36.4%

Transportation in South Cle Elum

How people get around in South Cle Elum

Commuting methods vary: 85.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 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 227 85.3% -14.0%
Walk 8 3% 14.3%
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 South Cle Elum by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98943 579 282 $66,750 $80,514

Explore more communities

FAQs about South Cle Elum demographics 

What is the total population of South Cle Elum?

South Cle Elum has a total population of 579 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 -18.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South Cle Elum?

The gender ratio in South Cle Elum is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (279 residents)
  • 51.8% females (300 residents)

What is the median age in South Cle Elum?

The median age in South Cle Elum is 47.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Cle Elum?

The age distribution in South Cle Elum is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.7% (68 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15% (87 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.5% (107 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29% (168 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.7% (149 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Cle Elum?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Cle Elum is as follows:
  • White: 79.8% (462 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.9% (92 residents)
  • Other: 4.3% (25 residents)

What percentage of the population in South Cle Elum are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.1% of the population in South Cle Elum.

How many housing units are there in South Cle Elum?

There are 306 housing units in South Cle Elum, reflecting a -12.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in South Cle Elum and what is the average household size?

South Cle Elum has a total of 282 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Cle Elum?

South Cle Elum has a median household income of $66,750, representing a +10.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for South Cle Elum?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.2% (218 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.8% (76 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.5% (19 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.7% (205 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.6% (40 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.2% (30 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