Tacoma, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
222,758
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$85,884/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
97,298
1.2% year-over-year change

Tacoma population

How many people live in Tacoma

Tacoma is home to 222,758 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Tacoma locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
222,758
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
110,328
Female
50.5%
112,430
Value Percent YoY change
Male 110,328 49.5% -0.1%
Female 112,430 50.5% 2.1%
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 Tacoma is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.6% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33.1% of the population, while another 23.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.6%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
33.1%
45 to 64
23.4%
Over 65
15%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 36,947 16.6% 1.9%
15 to 24 26,589 11.9% -0.0%
25 to 44 73,684 33.1% 1.5%
45 to 64 52,120 23.4% -1.3%
Over 65 33,418 15% 3.9%
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 Tacoma, 84.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 58.2% of locals are Caucasian, 9.8% are African American and 9.6% have Asian roots. Another 1.3% are Indigenous American, 0.9% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 15.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.8%
Non-citizens
5.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 188,652 84.7% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 21,859 9.8% 5.1%
Non-citizens 12,247 5.5% 2.6%
Racial breakdown
White
58.2%
Black or African American
9.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
9.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.9%
Two or more races
15.5%
Other
4.7%
Value Percent
White 129,600 58.2%
Black or African American 21,907 9.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,983 1.3%
Asian 21,355 9.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 2,059 0.9%
Two or more races 34,469 15.5%
Other 10,385 4.7%

Households in Tacoma

A peek inside Tacoma households

Tacoma has 93,033 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58% are families, while the remaining 42% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
93,033
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
39,090
Family households
53,943
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 39,090 42% 0.7%
Family households 53,943 58% 2.2%
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 Tacoma

The housing landscape of Tacoma

Tacoma's housing consists of 97,298 units, with 60.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.9% 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 0.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
97,298
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 59,004 60.6%
1 unit, attached 2,785 2.9%
2 units 2,713 2.8%
3 or 4 units 4,388 4.5%
5 to 9 units 5,796 6%
10 to 19 units 5,990 6.2%
20 to 49 units 5,791 6%
50 or more units 10,315 10.6%
Mobile home 475 0.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 41 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,624
110.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Tacoma

In Tacoma, the median construction year is 1967. About 26.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 26,193 26.9% 1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 7,702 7.9% 0.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,312 8.5% -2.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 8,788 9% 1.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 11,610 11.9% -0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 8,757 9% -4.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 8,490 8.7% -2.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,311 8.5% 0.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 7,511 7.7% 9.3%
Built in 2020 or later 1,624 1.7% 110.1%
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.

Tacoma occupancy rates

Out of the 93,033 occupied housing units in Tacoma, 55.8% are owner-occupied, while 44.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
93,033
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
41,140
Owner occupied
51,893
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 41,140 44.2% 3.2%
Owner occupied 51,893 55.8% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
4.4%
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.

Tacoma housing costs

Housing costs in Tacoma come to a median of $1,798 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,676.

Median housing costs per month
$1,798/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 Tacoma
$1,676/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 Tacoma

Tacoma education at a glance

About 31.6% of the population in Tacoma went to high school, while 22.8% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 20.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6,123 3.4% 6.6%
High school diploma 56,550 31.6% -1.3%
College diploma 40,770 22.8% -1.9%
Associate degree 17,940 10% 1.6%
Bachelor's degree 36,162 20.2% 3.2%
Graduate degree 21,197 11.9% 5.8%
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 Tacoma

How much people earn in Tacoma

The average annual household income in Tacoma was $107,897 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $85,884, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Tacoma
$107,897/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Tacoma
$85,884/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Tacoma income by age

In Tacoma, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $96,982. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $98,966 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $60,102, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,212 in earnings. Overall, 87.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $60,102 -0.1%
25 - 44 $96,982 2.7%
45 - 64 $98,966 2.2%
Over 65 $60,212 0.5%
Above poverty level
188,511
Below poverty level
26,754
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 188,511 87.6% 0.4%
Below poverty level 26,754 12.4% 4.2%

Average renter income in Tacoma

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Tacoma, their median household income was $53,785 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$53,785
Rent-to-income ratio
37.4%
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 Tacoma

Workforce and job types in Tacoma

The job market in Tacoma is powered by 112,350 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.1% run their own businesses, 63% are employed by private companies, and 19.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
112,350
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
86,942
Blue collar
25,408
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 86,942 77.4% 1.3%
Blue collar 25,408 22.6% -5.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.1%
Private companies
63%
Governmental workers
19.6%
Not for profit companies
10.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 8,002 7.1% -0.6%
Private companies 70,744 63% -1.4%
Governmental workers 22,076 19.6% 6.4%
Not for profit companies 11,528 10.3% -4.6%
Unemployment rate
5.6%
4.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Tacoma stands at 5.6%, 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 Tacoma

How people get around in Tacoma

In Tacoma, the average commute time is 29 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 75.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
29 min
-0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 84,057 75.9% -2.5%
Taxicab 19 0% -44.1%
Bus or trolleybus 3,306 3% -18.5%
Railroad 925 0.8% -8.1%
Ferryboat 41 0% -24.1%
Motorcycle 137 0.1% -17.0%
Bicycle 486 0.4% 16.8%
Walk 2,967 2.7% 2.6%
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 Tacoma by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98402 8,080 4,625 $60,505 $82,718
98403 9,097 4,818 $88,056 $127,094
98404 35,961 12,435 $82,191 $96,074
98405 25,939 11,421 $75,946 $92,734
98406 24,202 10,557 $104,264 $131,546
98407 21,718 10,159 $110,288 $133,804
98408 21,009 8,134 $80,899 $98,202
98409 27,843 12,218 $73,348 $94,415
98416 934 0 $0 $0
98418 10,264 4,284 $89,706 $94,482

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Tacoma demographics 

What is the total population of Tacoma?

Tacoma has a total population of 222,758 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Tacoma?

The gender ratio in Tacoma is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (110,328 residents)
  • 50.5% females (112,430 residents)

What is the median age in Tacoma?

The median age in Tacoma is 37.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Tacoma?

The age distribution in Tacoma is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.6% (36,947 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (26,589 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33.1% (73,684 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.4% (52,120 residents)
  • Over 65: 15% (33,418 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Tacoma?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Tacoma is as follows:
  • White: 58.2% (129,600 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.8% (21,907 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (2,983 residents)
  • Asian: 9.6% (21,355 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.9% (2,059 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.5% (34,469 residents)
  • Other: 4.7% (10,385 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.7% of the population in Tacoma.

How many housing units are there in Tacoma?

There are 97,298 housing units in Tacoma, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Tacoma has a total of 93,033 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Tacoma?

Tacoma has a median household income of $85,884, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.4% in Tacoma, with a workforce of 112,350 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.4% (86,942 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.6% (25,408 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.1% (8,002 residents)
  • Private companies: 63% (70,744 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.6% (22,076 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.3% (11,528 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