Sunnyside, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,277
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,923/yr
14.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,627
-1.3% year-over-year change

Sunnyside population

How many people live in Sunnyside

Sunnyside is home to 16,277 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Sunnyside locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
16,277
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
8,274
Female
49.2%
8,003
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,274 50.8% -0.7%
Female 8,003 49.2% 0.1%
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 Sunnyside is 27, with the population distributed as follows: about 32.1% are children under 15, then 14.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.6% of the population, while another 17.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 9.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
27.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
32.1%
15 to 24
14.5%
25 to 44
26.6%
45 to 64
17.1%
Over 65
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,229 32.1% -6.5%
15 to 24 2,360 14.5% 9.9%
25 to 44 4,333 26.6% 4.3%
45 to 64 2,785 17.1% 0.6%
Over 65 1,570 9.6% -5.5%
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 Sunnyside, 65.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 24.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 34.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. Another 1.4% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 24.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 38.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
65.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.2%
Non-citizens
24.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,597 65.1% -4.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,669 10.2% 24.3%
Non-citizens 4,011 24.6% 4.0%
Racial breakdown
White
34.1%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
38.5%
Other
24.6%
Value Percent
White 5,553 34.1%
Black or African American 32 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 221 1.4%
Asian 143 0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 62 0.4%
Two or more races 6,269 38.5%
Other 3,997 24.6%

Households in Sunnyside

A peek inside Sunnyside households

Sunnyside has 4,440 households, with an average of 4 members in each. Of these, 74% are families, while the remaining 26% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,440
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
4
Non-family households
1,153
Family households
3,287
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,153 26% -6.1%
Family households 3,287 74% 3.1%
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 Sunnyside

The housing landscape of Sunnyside

Sunnyside's housing consists of 4,627 units, with 51.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.9% 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 16.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,627
-1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,366 51.1%
1 unit, attached 86 1.9%
2 units 405 8.8%
3 or 4 units 253 5.5%
5 to 9 units 232 5%
10 to 19 units 95 2%
20 to 49 units 170 3.7%
50 or more units 263 5.7%
Mobile home 757 16.4%
Homes built since 2020
14
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sunnyside

In Sunnyside, the median construction year is 1976. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 13.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 206 4.4% -21.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 630 13.6% 33.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 615 13.3% -13.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 306 6.6% -23.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 917 19.8% -13.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 441 9.5% 20.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 539 11.6% -4.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 322 7% -15.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 637 13.8% 33.8%
Built in 2020 or later 14 0.3% N/A
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.

Sunnyside occupancy rates

Out of the 4,440 occupied housing units in Sunnyside, 55% are owner-occupied, while 45% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,440
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,998
Owner occupied
2,442
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,998 45% 12.5%
Owner occupied 2,442 55% -7.5%
Unoccupied housing units
4.0%
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.

Sunnyside housing costs

Housing costs in Sunnyside come to a median of $1,001 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,026.

Median housing costs per month
$1,001/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 Sunnyside
$1,026/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 Sunnyside

Sunnyside education at a glance

About 47.3% of the population in Sunnyside went to high school, while 11.9% pursued college studies. Another 5.8% earned an associate degree and 5.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,520 25.4% -8.8%
High school diploma 4,698 47.3% 1.7%
College diploma 1,184 11.9% 4.2%
Associate degree 578 5.8% 42.7%
Bachelor's degree 585 5.9% 23.2%
Graduate degree 359 3.6% 0.0%
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 Sunnyside

How much people earn in Sunnyside

The average annual household income in Sunnyside was $72,779 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +9.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,923, reflecting a +14.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sunnyside
$72,779/year
9.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sunnyside
$60,923/year
14.2% year-over-year change

Sunnyside income by age

In Sunnyside, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,697. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,955 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $75,375, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $31,000 in earnings. Overall, 81.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $75,375 N/A
25 - 44 $63,697 6.9%
45 - 64 $61,955 11.1%
Over 65 $31,000 9.7%
Above poverty level
12,967
Below poverty level
2,977
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,967 81.3% -1.9%
Below poverty level 2,977 18.7% 5.9%

Average renter income in Sunnyside

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sunnyside, their median household income was $37,139 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,139
Rent-to-income ratio
33.2%
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 Sunnyside

Workforce and job types in Sunnyside

The job market in Sunnyside is powered by 5,965 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 51.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 48.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12% run their own businesses, 71.2% are employed by private companies, and 13.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,965
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
3,086
Blue collar
2,879
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,086 51.7% 9.8%
Blue collar 2,879 48.3% -5.4%
Employer type
Self employees
12%
Private companies
71.2%
Governmental workers
13.4%
Not for profit companies
3.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 715 12% 34.4%
Private companies 4,250 71.2% 1.6%
Governmental workers 800 13.4% -9.3%
Not for profit companies 200 3.4% -21.6%
Unemployment rate
12.3%
25.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sunnyside stands at 12.3%, 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 Sunnyside

How people get around in Sunnyside

Commuting methods vary: 95.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% 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 5,338 95.2% 1.5%
Walk 60 1.1% -6.2%
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 Sunnyside by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98944 22,817 6,433 $64,276 $84,729

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FAQs about Sunnyside demographics 

What is the total population of Sunnyside?

Sunnyside has a total population of 16,277 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sunnyside?

The gender ratio in Sunnyside is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (8,274 residents)
  • 49.2% females (8,003 residents)

What is the median age in Sunnyside?

The median age in Sunnyside is 27.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sunnyside?

The age distribution in Sunnyside is as follows:
  • Under 15: 32.1% (5,229 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.5% (2,360 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.6% (4,333 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.1% (2,785 residents)
  • Over 65: 9.6% (1,570 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sunnyside?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sunnyside is as follows:
  • White: 34.1% (5,553 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (32 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (221 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (143 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (62 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 38.5% (6,269 residents)
  • Other: 24.6% (3,997 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 65.1% of the population in Sunnyside.

How many housing units are there in Sunnyside?

There are 4,627 housing units in Sunnyside, reflecting a -1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sunnyside has a total of 4,440 households, with an average of 4 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sunnyside?

Sunnyside has a median household income of $60,923, representing a +14.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 87.7% in Sunnyside, with a workforce of 5,965 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 51.7% (3,086 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 48.3% (2,879 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12% (715 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.2% (4,250 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.4% (800 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.4% (200 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