Whatcom County, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
230,503
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$81,784/yr
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
103,520
1.6% year-over-year change

Whatcom County population

How many people live in Whatcom County

Whatcom County is home to 230,503 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Whatcom County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
230,503
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
114,239
Female
50.4%
116,264
Value Percent YoY change
Male 114,239 49.6% 0.8%
Female 116,264 50.4% 1.0%
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 Whatcom County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.2% are children under 15, then 16.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.8% of the population, while another 22.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.2%
15 to 24
16.3%
25 to 44
26.8%
45 to 64
22.8%
Over 65
18.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 35,149 15.2% -1.3%
15 to 24 37,563 16.3% 0.4%
25 to 44 61,773 26.8% 1.9%
45 to 64 52,450 22.8% -0.1%
Over 65 43,568 18.9% 3.1%
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 Whatcom County, 87.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 4.4% have Asian roots. Another 1.8% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.9%
Non-citizens
4.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 202,255 87.8% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 18,154 7.9% 3.1%
Non-citizens 10,094 4.4% -0.2%
Racial breakdown
White
78%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.8%
Asian
4.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
10.1%
Other
4.5%
Value Percent
White 179,852 78%
Black or African American 2,213 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4,102 1.8%
Asian 10,078 4.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 597 0.3%
Two or more races 23,243 10.1%
Other 10,418 4.5%

Households in Whatcom County

A peek inside Whatcom County households

Whatcom County has 94,021 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.8% are families, while the remaining 41.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
94,021
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
38,719
Family households
55,302
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 38,719 41.2% 3.4%
Family households 55,302 58.8% 0.6%
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 Whatcom County

The housing landscape of Whatcom County

Whatcom County's housing consists of 103,520 units, with 62.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.5% 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 6.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
103,520
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 64,997 62.8%
1 unit, attached 3,615 3.5%
2 units 2,738 2.6%
3 or 4 units 4,552 4.4%
5 to 9 units 4,254 4.1%
10 to 19 units 6,050 5.8%
20 to 49 units 5,802 5.6%
50 or more units 4,760 4.6%
Mobile home 6,552 6.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 200 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
2,440
56.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Whatcom County

In Whatcom County, the median construction year is 1989. About 11.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 11,857 11.4% 4.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,107 2% -7.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,228 4.1% -1.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,786 5.6% -2.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 17,056 16.5% -2.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 12,179 11.8% 2.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 17,141 16.6% -0.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 18,074 17.5% 1.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 12,652 12.2% 4.6%
Built in 2020 or later 2,440 2.4% 56.6%
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.

Whatcom County occupancy rates

Out of the 94,021 occupied housing units in Whatcom County, 63.7% are owner-occupied, while 36.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
94,021
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
34,117
Owner occupied
59,904
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 34,117 36.3% 1.2%
Owner occupied 59,904 63.7% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
9.2%
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.

Whatcom County housing costs

Housing costs in Whatcom County come to a median of $1,613 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,555.

Median housing costs per month
$1,613/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 Whatcom County
$1,555/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 Whatcom County

Whatcom County education at a glance

About 25.6% of the population in Whatcom County went to high school, while 25.8% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 22.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,365 2.3% 10.7%
High school diploma 48,021 25.6% -2.0%
College diploma 48,499 25.8% 0.8%
Associate degree 20,241 10.8% -2.3%
Bachelor's degree 42,979 22.9% 5.6%
Graduate degree 23,655 12.6% 3.6%
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 Whatcom County

How much people earn in Whatcom County

The average annual household income in Whatcom County was $109,592 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $81,784, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Whatcom County
$109,592/year
3.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Whatcom County
$81,784/year
1.0% year-over-year change

Whatcom County income by age

In Whatcom County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $98,385. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $108,127 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,368, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $63,400 in earnings. Overall, 87.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,368 1.9%
25 - 44 $98,385 3.4%
45 - 64 $108,127 2.8%
Over 65 $63,400 -0.9%
Above poverty level
194,811
Below poverty level
28,814
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 194,811 87.1% 0.6%
Below poverty level 28,814 12.9% 2.4%

Employment in Whatcom County

Workforce and job types in Whatcom County

The job market in Whatcom County is powered by 115,468 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.1% run their own businesses, 62.2% are employed by private companies, and 15.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
115,468
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
90,402
Blue collar
25,066
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 90,402 78.3% 2.3%
Blue collar 25,066 21.7% 0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
13.1%
Private companies
62.2%
Governmental workers
15.7%
Not for profit companies
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 15,164 13.1% 1.4%
Private companies 71,856 62.2% 1.7%
Governmental workers 18,125 15.7% 1.8%
Not for profit companies 10,323 8.9% 4.4%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
-4.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Whatcom County stands at 4.8%, 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 Whatcom County

How people get around in Whatcom County

Commuting methods vary: 76.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.9% 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 87,031 76.7% 0.1%
Taxicab 9 0% 28.6%
Bus or trolleybus 1,991 1.8% -3.9%
Subway or elevated 31 0% N/A
Ferryboat 51 0% 75.9%
Motorcycle 52 0% -64.9%
Bicycle 2,045 1.8% -4.0%
Walk 4,391 3.9% 14.7%
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 Whatcom County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98220 541 205 $92,266 $99,572
98225 50,216 22,612 $63,941 $91,167
98226 46,782 20,048 $79,375 $105,165
98229 33,298 13,712 $90,945 $124,094
98230 18,744 7,976 $86,623 $106,592
98237 4,956 1,855 $61,711 $83,741
98240 3,593 1,265 $110,116 $131,966
98244 2,994 1,270 $67,159 $101,919
98247 9,115 3,092 $88,724 $105,487
98248 28,498 10,083 $91,060 $130,587

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FAQs about Whatcom County demographics 

What is the total population of Whatcom County?

Whatcom County has a total population of 230,503 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 Whatcom County?

The gender ratio in Whatcom County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (114,239 residents)
  • 50.4% females (116,264 residents)

What is the median age in Whatcom County?

The median age in Whatcom County is 38.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Whatcom County?

The age distribution in Whatcom County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.2% (35,149 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.3% (37,563 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.8% (61,773 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.8% (52,450 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.9% (43,568 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Whatcom County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Whatcom County is as follows:
  • White: 78% (179,852 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (2,213 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.8% (4,102 residents)
  • Asian: 4.4% (10,078 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (597 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.1% (23,243 residents)
  • Other: 4.5% (10,418 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.8% of the population in Whatcom County.

How many housing units are there in Whatcom County?

There are 103,520 housing units in Whatcom County, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Whatcom County has a total of 94,021 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Whatcom County?

Whatcom County has a median household income of $81,784, representing a +1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Whatcom County?

The employment rate is 95.2% in Whatcom County, with a workforce of 115,468 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.3% (90,402 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.7% (25,066 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.1% (15,164 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.2% (71,856 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.7% (18,125 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.9% (10,323 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