Spanaway, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
34,019
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$98,251/yr
4.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,021
-0.3% year-over-year change

Spanaway population

How many people live in Spanaway

Spanaway is home to 34,019 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.3% of Spanaway locals are male, and 47.7% are female.

Total population
34,019
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.3%
17,799
Female
47.7%
16,220
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,799 52.3% 1.2%
Female 16,220 47.7% -3.1%
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 Spanaway is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 22% are children under 15, then 14% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.3% of the population, while another 22.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 10.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
22%
15 to 24
14%
25 to 44
31.3%
45 to 64
22.2%
Over 65
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,476 22% -5.2%
15 to 24 4,750 14% 2.4%
25 to 44 10,647 31.3% -1.2%
45 to 64 7,539 22.2% 1.0%
Over 65 3,607 10.6% 1.4%
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 Spanaway, 81.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 51.2% of locals are Caucasian, 9.7% are African American and 6.9% have Asian roots. Another 1.2% are Indigenous American, 4% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 22.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
81.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.2%
Non-citizens
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 27,700 81.4% -1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,805 11.2% -2.0%
Non-citizens 2,514 7.4% 12.7%
Racial breakdown
White
51.2%
Black or African American
9.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.2%
Asian
6.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
4%
Two or more races
22.6%
Other
4.3%
Value Percent
White 17,428 51.2%
Black or African American 3,301 9.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 426 1.2%
Asian 2,349 6.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,343 4%
Two or more races 7,696 22.6%
Other 1,476 4.3%

Households in Spanaway

A peek inside Spanaway households

Spanaway has 11,665 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 73.3% are families, while the remaining 26.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,665
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,113
Family households
8,552
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,113 26.7% 2.3%
Family households 8,552 73.3% -0.7%
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 Spanaway

The housing landscape of Spanaway

Spanaway's housing consists of 12,021 units, with 78.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.8% 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 5.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,021
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,392 78.1%
1 unit, attached 815 6.8%
2 units 402 3.3%
3 or 4 units 215 1.8%
5 to 9 units 154 1.3%
10 to 19 units 204 1.7%
20 to 49 units 108 0.9%
50 or more units 44 0.4%
Mobile home 662 5.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 25 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
85
123.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Spanaway

In Spanaway, the median construction year is 1989. About 2.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 22.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 337 2.8% 3.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 174 1.4% 18.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 150 1.2% 14.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,065 8.9% 6.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,442 20.3% 5.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,013 16.8% -9.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,411 11.7% -13.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,726 22.7% -1.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,618 13.5% 8.5%
Built in 2020 or later 85 0.7% 123.7%
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.

Spanaway occupancy rates

Out of the 11,665 occupied housing units in Spanaway, 73.7% are owner-occupied, while 26.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,665
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,069
Owner occupied
8,596
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,069 26.3% -3.3%
Owner occupied 8,596 73.7% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
3.0%
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.

Spanaway housing costs

Housing costs in Spanaway come to a median of $1,785 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,813.

Median housing costs per month
$1,785/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 Spanaway
$1,813/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 Spanaway

Spanaway education at a glance

About 42.8% of the population in Spanaway went to high school, while 26.3% pursued college studies. Another 12.6% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 547 2.2% -12.2%
High school diploma 10,533 42.8% 0.6%
College diploma 6,483 26.3% -2.2%
Associate degree 3,095 12.6% -4.9%
Bachelor's degree 2,959 12% 13.5%
Graduate degree 1,007 4.1% 6.2%
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 Spanaway

How much people earn in Spanaway

The average annual household income in Spanaway was $112,433 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $98,251, reflecting a +4.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Spanaway
$112,433/year
6.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Spanaway
$98,251/year
4.5% year-over-year change

Spanaway income by age

In Spanaway, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $103,533. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $107,143 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $84,087, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $75,833 in earnings. Overall, 91.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $84,087 3.6%
25 - 44 $103,533 9.5%
45 - 64 $107,143 1.9%
Over 65 $75,833 3.4%
Above poverty level
30,700
Below poverty level
2,852
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,700 91.5% 0.2%
Below poverty level 2,852 8.5% -11.6%

Average renter income in Spanaway

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Spanaway, their median household income was $64,583 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$64,583
Rent-to-income ratio
33.7%
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 Spanaway

Workforce and job types in Spanaway

The job market in Spanaway is powered by 15,658 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7% run their own businesses, 65.3% are employed by private companies, and 18.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,658
1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
10,838
Blue collar
4,820
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,838 69.2% 0.6%
Blue collar 4,820 30.8% 2.5%
Employer type
Self employees
7%
Private companies
65.3%
Governmental workers
18.7%
Not for profit companies
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,095 7% 18.2%
Private companies 10,222 65.3% -4.3%
Governmental workers 2,921 18.7% 3.9%
Not for profit companies 1,420 9.1% 35.9%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
-5.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Spanaway stands at 4.7%, 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 Spanaway

How people get around in Spanaway

Commuting methods vary: 85.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.2% 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 13,836 85.9% -0.6%
Bus or trolleybus 273 1.7% -0.7%
Railroad 117 0.7% -9.3%
Motorcycle 29 0.2% -29.3%
Bicycle 18 0.1% 0.0%
Walk 27 0.2% -42.5%
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 Spanaway by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98387 50,774 16,746 $106,872 $121,536

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FAQs about Spanaway demographics 

What is the total population of Spanaway?

Spanaway has a total population of 34,019 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 -0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Spanaway?

The gender ratio in Spanaway is as follows:
  • 52.3% males (17,799 residents)
  • 47.7% females (16,220 residents)

What is the median age in Spanaway?

The median age in Spanaway is 33.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Spanaway?

The age distribution in Spanaway is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22% (7,476 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14% (4,750 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.3% (10,647 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.2% (7,539 residents)
  • Over 65: 10.6% (3,607 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Spanaway?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Spanaway is as follows:
  • White: 51.2% (17,428 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.7% (3,301 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.2% (426 residents)
  • Asian: 6.9% (2,349 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 4% (1,343 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 22.6% (7,696 residents)
  • Other: 4.3% (1,476 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.4% of the population in Spanaway.

How many housing units are there in Spanaway?

There are 12,021 housing units in Spanaway, 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 Spanaway and what is the average household size?

Spanaway has a total of 11,665 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Spanaway?

Spanaway has a median household income of $98,251, representing a +4.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.3% in Spanaway, with a workforce of 15,658 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.2% (10,838 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.8% (4,820 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7% (1,095 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.3% (10,222 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.7% (2,921 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.1% (1,420 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