University Place, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
34,911
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$99,031/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,216
-1.3% year-over-year change

University Place population

How many people live in University Place

University Place is home to 34,911 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47% of University Place locals are male, and 53% are female.

Total population
34,911
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47%
16,397
Female
53%
18,514
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,397 47% -2.0%
Female 18,514 53% 2.2%
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 University Place is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 13.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.9% of the population, while another 22.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
13.2%
25 to 44
26.9%
45 to 64
22.4%
Over 65
19.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,299 18% -5.7%
15 to 24 4,623 13.2% -3.6%
25 to 44 9,381 26.9% 4.9%
45 to 64 7,812 22.4% -4.8%
Over 65 6,796 19.5% 9.1%
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 University Place, 83.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 61.6% of locals are Caucasian, 7.2% are African American and 10.9% have Asian roots. Another 2% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 14.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
83.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.9%
Non-citizens
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 29,297 83.9% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,798 10.9% -7.2%
Non-citizens 1,816 5.2% 14.8%
Racial breakdown
White
61.6%
Black or African American
7.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2%
Asian
10.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
14.3%
Other
3.6%
Value Percent
White 21,508 61.6%
Black or African American 2,495 7.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 714 2%
Asian 3,821 10.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 148 0.4%
Two or more races 4,980 14.3%
Other 1,245 3.6%

Households in University Place

A peek inside University Place households

University Place has 13,682 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.4% are families, while the remaining 33.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,682
-0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,596
Family households
9,086
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,596 33.6% -0.5%
Family households 9,086 66.4% -1.1%
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 University Place

The housing landscape of University Place

University Place's housing consists of 14,216 units, with 54.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.4% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,216
-1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,720 54.3%
1 unit, attached 913 6.4%
2 units 603 4.2%
3 or 4 units 1,062 7.5%
5 to 9 units 1,203 8.5%
10 to 19 units 920 6.5%
20 to 49 units 498 3.5%
50 or more units 1,126 7.9%
Mobile home 109 0.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 62 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
137
63.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in University Place

In University Place, the median construction year is 1981. About 3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 421 3% 9.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 414 2.9% 11.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 969 6.8% -19.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,928 13.6% -8.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,142 22.1% 0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,529 17.8% 2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,229 15.7% 0.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,518 10.7% -2.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 929 6.5% 5.1%
Built in 2020 or later 137 1% 63.1%
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.

University Place occupancy rates

Out of the 13,682 occupied housing units in University Place, 57.2% are owner-occupied, while 42.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,682
-0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,856
Owner occupied
7,826
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,856 42.8% 3.1%
Owner occupied 7,826 57.2% -3.7%
Unoccupied housing units
3.8%
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.

University Place housing costs

Housing costs in University Place come to a median of $1,842 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,762.

Median housing costs per month
$1,842/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 University Place
$1,762/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 University Place

University Place education at a glance

About 24.8% of the population in University Place went to high school, while 22.2% pursued college studies. Another 11.4% earned an associate degree and 22.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 478 1.8% 15.5%
High school diploma 6,672 24.8% 3.2%
College diploma 5,970 22.2% 1.4%
Associate degree 3,065 11.4% 4.1%
Bachelor's degree 6,147 22.8% -1.5%
Graduate degree 4,612 17.1% 2.9%
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 University Place

How much people earn in University Place

The average annual household income in University Place was $129,824 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $99,031, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in University Place
$129,824/year
4.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in University Place
$99,031/year
4.3% year-over-year change

University Place income by age

In University Place, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $102,403. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $116,178 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,648, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $82,456 in earnings. Overall, 91.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,648 3.4%
25 - 44 $102,403 -1.0%
45 - 64 $116,178 -1.1%
Over 65 $82,456 13.7%
Above poverty level
31,694
Below poverty level
2,843
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 31,694 91.8% 0.8%
Below poverty level 2,843 8.2% -4.3%

Average renter income in University Place

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in University Place, their median household income was $58,241 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$58,241
Rent-to-income ratio
36.3%
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 University Place

Workforce and job types in University Place

The job market in University Place is powered by 17,091 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.2% run their own businesses, 57% are employed by private companies, and 19.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,091
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
14,435
Blue collar
2,656
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 14,435 84.5% 2.2%
Blue collar 2,656 15.5% -8.0%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
57%
Governmental workers
19.4%
Not for profit companies
13.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,738 10.2% 7.5%
Private companies 9,743 57% -0.2%
Governmental workers 3,321 19.4% -4.5%
Not for profit companies 2,289 13.4% 5.9%
Unemployment rate
5.1%
26.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in University Place stands at 5.1%, 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 University Place

How people get around in University Place

In University Place, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 78.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
28 min
-1.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,289 78.5% 0.1%
Bus or trolleybus 246 1.4% -17.4%
Railroad 61 0.4% -43.0%
Ferryboat 15 0.1% 50.0%
Motorcycle 28 0.2% -39.1%
Bicycle 139 0.8% -27.6%
Walk 155 0.9% -38.2%
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 University Place by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98467 15,387 6,304 $91,354 $114,972

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FAQs about University Place demographics 

What is the total population of University Place?

University Place has a total population of 34,911 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in University Place?

The gender ratio in University Place is as follows:
  • 47% males (16,397 residents)
  • 53% females (18,514 residents)

What is the median age in University Place?

The median age in University Place is 40.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in University Place?

The age distribution in University Place is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (6,299 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.2% (4,623 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.9% (9,381 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.4% (7,812 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.5% (6,796 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of University Place?

The racial and ethnic makeup of University Place is as follows:
  • White: 61.6% (21,508 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.2% (2,495 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2% (714 residents)
  • Asian: 10.9% (3,821 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (148 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.3% (4,980 residents)
  • Other: 3.6% (1,245 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 83.9% of the population in University Place.

How many housing units are there in University Place?

There are 14,216 housing units in University Place, 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 University Place and what is the average household size?

University Place has a total of 13,682 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in University Place?

University Place has a median household income of $99,031, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for University Place?

The employment rate is 94.9% in University Place, with a workforce of 17,091 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.5% (14,435 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.5% (2,656 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (1,738 residents)
  • Private companies: 57% (9,743 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.4% (3,321 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.4% (2,289 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