White Center, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
14,886
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$87,189/yr
5.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,034
0.3% year-over-year change

White Center population

How many people live in White Center

White Center is home to 14,886 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of White Center locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
14,886
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
7,538
Female
49.4%
7,348
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,538 50.6% 1.2%
Female 7,348 49.4% -3.0%
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 White Center is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.6% are children under 15, then 11.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33.5% of the population, while another 24.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.6%
15 to 24
11.6%
25 to 44
33.5%
45 to 64
24.3%
Over 65
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,614 17.6% -3.5%
15 to 24 1,727 11.6% -14.8%
25 to 44 4,992 33.5% 6.1%
45 to 64 3,614 24.3% 0.0%
Over 65 1,939 13% -1.1%
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 White Center, 71% of the population are US-born citizens, while 20.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 8.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 40.6% of locals are Caucasian, 12.1% are African American and 22% have Asian roots. Another 0.8% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 14.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
71%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
20.3%
Non-citizens
8.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,572 71% 1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,016 20.3% 7.1%
Non-citizens 1,298 8.7% -28.3%
Racial breakdown
White
40.6%
Black or African American
12.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
22%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
10.2%
Other
14.3%
Value Percent
White 6,037 40.6%
Black or African American 1,798 12.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 112 0.8%
Asian 3,270 22%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 14 0.1%
Two or more races 1,522 10.2%
Other 2,133 14.3%

Households in White Center

A peek inside White Center households

White Center has 5,702 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 63.1% are families, while the remaining 36.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,702
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,102
Family households
3,600
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,102 36.9% 7.1%
Family households 3,600 63.1% -4.8%
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 White Center

The housing landscape of White Center

White Center's housing consists of 6,034 units, with 55.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.6% 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
6,034
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,359 55.7%
1 unit, attached 580 9.6%
2 units 158 2.6%
3 or 4 units 477 7.9%
5 to 9 units 368 6.1%
10 to 19 units 361 6%
20 to 49 units 158 2.6%
50 or more units 522 8.6%
Mobile home 45 0.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
179
38.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in White Center

In White Center, the median construction year is 1977. About 12.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 779 12.9% 10.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 687 11.4% -2.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 762 12.6% -11.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 616 10.2% -2.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 234 3.9% 18.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 658 10.9% 1.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 356 5.9% 3.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 751 12.4% 5.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,012 16.8% -6.3%
Built in 2020 or later 179 3% 38.8%
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.

White Center occupancy rates

Out of the 5,702 occupied housing units in White Center, 55.5% are owner-occupied, while 44.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,702
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,539
Owner occupied
3,163
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,539 44.5% 2.7%
Owner occupied 3,163 55.5% -3.3%
Unoccupied housing units
5.5%
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.

White Center housing costs

Housing costs in White Center come to a median of $1,938 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,595.

Median housing costs per month
$1,938/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 White Center
$1,595/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 White Center

White Center education at a glance

About 31.1% of the population in White Center went to high school, while 21.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 23.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 811 6.9% -16.4%
High school diploma 3,657 31.1% 3.6%
College diploma 2,496 21.2% -3.7%
Associate degree 901 7.7% -8.5%
Bachelor's degree 2,758 23.5% 2.6%
Graduate degree 1,127 9.6% 20.5%
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 White Center

How much people earn in White Center

The average annual household income in White Center was $121,189 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $87,189, reflecting a +5.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in White Center
$121,189/year
7.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in White Center
$87,189/year
5.7% year-over-year change

White Center income by age

In White Center, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $117,425. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $100,592 overall. Overall, 85.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $117,425 6.6%
45 - 64 $100,592 -2.6%
Over 65 $61,136 5.8%
Above poverty level
12,578
Below poverty level
2,137
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,578 85.5% 1.9%
Below poverty level 2,137 14.5% -16.8%

Average renter income in White Center

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in White Center, their median household income was $50,353 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 38%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$50,353
Rent-to-income ratio
38%
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 White Center

Workforce and job types in White Center

The job market in White Center is powered by 8,167 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.1% run their own businesses, 68.5% are employed by private companies, and 12.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,167
0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
6,349
Blue collar
1,818
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,349 77.7% 1.2%
Blue collar 1,818 22.3% -2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
10.1%
Private companies
68.5%
Governmental workers
12.3%
Not for profit companies
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 822 10.1% 0.2%
Private companies 5,594 68.5% 0.5%
Governmental workers 1,006 12.3% 0.7%
Not for profit companies 745 9.1% -2.5%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
12.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in White Center stands at 4.9%, 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 White Center

How people get around in White Center

In White Center, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 71% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
-0.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,671 71% -2.6%
Bus or trolleybus 531 6.6% -17.8%
Bicycle 46 0.6% 4.5%
Walk 83 1% 53.7%
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.

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FAQs about White Center demographics 

What is the total population of White Center?

White Center has a total population of 14,886 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 White Center?

The gender ratio in White Center is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (7,538 residents)
  • 49.4% females (7,348 residents)

What is the median age in White Center?

The median age in White Center is 37.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in White Center?

The age distribution in White Center is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.6% (2,614 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.6% (1,727 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33.5% (4,992 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.3% (3,614 residents)
  • Over 65: 13% (1,939 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of White Center?

The racial and ethnic makeup of White Center is as follows:
  • White: 40.6% (6,037 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12.1% (1,798 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (112 residents)
  • Asian: 22% (3,270 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (14 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.2% (1,522 residents)
  • Other: 14.3% (2,133 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 71% of the population in White Center.

How many housing units are there in White Center?

There are 6,034 housing units in White Center, 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 White Center and what is the average household size?

White Center has a total of 5,702 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in White Center?

White Center has a median household income of $87,189, representing a +5.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for White Center?

The employment rate is 95.1% in White Center, with a workforce of 8,167 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.7% (6,349 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.3% (1,818 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.1% (822 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.5% (5,594 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.3% (1,006 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.1% (745 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