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

Total population
47,003
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,406/yr
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
22,091
4.0% year-over-year change

Whitman County population

How many people live in Whitman County

Whitman County is home to 47,003 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Whitman County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
47,003
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
23,722
Female
49.5%
23,281
Value Percent YoY change
Male 23,722 50.5% -0.6%
Female 23,281 49.5% 0.4%
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 Whitman County is 26, with the population distributed as follows: about 13% are children under 15, then 34.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.9% of the population, while another 16.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
26.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
13%
15 to 24
34.7%
25 to 44
23.9%
45 to 64
16.5%
Over 65
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,114 13% 0.8%
15 to 24 16,317 34.7% -1.8%
25 to 44 11,222 23.9% -0.6%
45 to 64 7,753 16.5% 1.9%
Over 65 5,597 11.9% 2.6%
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 Whitman County, 90.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 76.2% of locals are Caucasian, 1.5% are African American and 6.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.6%
Non-citizens
4.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 42,577 90.6% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,150 4.6% -1.9%
Non-citizens 2,276 4.8% -9.8%
Racial breakdown
White
76.2%
Black or African American
1.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
6.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
11.9%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 35,796 76.2%
Black or African American 685 1.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 298 0.6%
Asian 3,228 6.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 94 0.2%
Two or more races 5,610 11.9%
Other 1,292 2.8%

Households in Whitman County

A peek inside Whitman County households

Whitman County has 18,721 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48.5% are families, while the remaining 51.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
18,721
4.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,642
Family households
9,079
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,642 51.5% 3.4%
Family households 9,079 48.5% 5.2%
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 Whitman County

The housing landscape of Whitman County

Whitman County's housing consists of 22,091 units, with 44.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.4% 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 6.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
22,091
4.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,869 44.7%
1 unit, attached 761 3.4%
2 units 1,243 5.6%
3 or 4 units 1,514 6.8%
5 to 9 units 2,229 10.1%
10 to 19 units 2,840 12.9%
20 to 49 units 1,314 6%
50 or more units 941 4.3%
Mobile home 1,359 6.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 21 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
217
87.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Whitman County

In Whitman County, the median construction year is 1977. About 15.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.4% 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 3,483 15.8% -2.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 834 3.8% -5.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,720 7.8% 8.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,286 10.4% 17.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,653 16.5% 6.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,511 11.4% 11.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,590 11.7% -13.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,716 12.3% 8.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,081 9.4% 6.0%
Built in 2020 or later 217 1% 87.1%
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.

Whitman County occupancy rates

Out of the 18,721 occupied housing units in Whitman County, 46.8% are owner-occupied, while 53.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
18,721
4.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,956
Owner occupied
8,765
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,956 53.2% 3.9%
Owner occupied 8,765 46.8% 4.8%
Unoccupied housing units
15.3%
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.

Whitman County housing costs

Housing costs in Whitman County come to a median of $1,091 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,049.

Median housing costs per month
$1,091/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 Whitman County
$1,049/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 Whitman County

Whitman County education at a glance

About 20.9% of the population in Whitman County went to high school, while 32.6% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 21.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 388 1% 23.2%
High school diploma 8,271 20.9% 6.7%
College diploma 12,886 32.6% -6.6%
Associate degree 3,937 10% 3.4%
Bachelor's degree 8,501 21.5% 2.6%
Graduate degree 5,581 14.1% -1.9%
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 Whitman County

How much people earn in Whitman County

The average annual household income in Whitman County was $84,165 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,406, reflecting a +4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Whitman County
$84,165/year
6.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Whitman County
$55,406/year
4.8% year-over-year change

Whitman County income by age

In Whitman County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,157. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $104,119 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $20,459, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,283 in earnings. Overall, 77.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $20,459 6.2%
25 - 44 $71,157 11.4%
45 - 64 $104,119 8.8%
Over 65 $57,283 2.1%
Above poverty level
31,355
Below poverty level
9,225
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 31,355 77.3% 0.7%
Below poverty level 9,225 22.7% -4.8%

Employment in Whitman County

Workforce and job types in Whitman County

The job market in Whitman County is powered by 23,356 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 52.5% are employed by private companies, and 32.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
23,356
-0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
19,959
Blue collar
3,397
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 19,959 85.5% -1.6%
Blue collar 3,397 14.5% 3.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
52.5%
Governmental workers
32.3%
Not for profit companies
5.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,172 9.3% 3.4%
Private companies 12,263 52.5% 1.6%
Governmental workers 7,548 32.3% -4.1%
Not for profit companies 1,373 5.9% -9.8%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
7.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Whitman County stands at 7%, 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 Whitman County

How people get around in Whitman County

Commuting methods vary: 73.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.2% 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 16,879 73.5% 0.4%
Bus or trolleybus 701 3% -11.8%
Railroad 4 0% 100.0%
Motorcycle 39 0.2% 160.0%
Bicycle 441 1.9% 23.9%
Walk 2,340 10.2% -13.4%
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 Whitman County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
99128 259 125 $58,942 $79,788
99017 230 93 $58,958 $62,618
99033 832 358 $58,750 $77,051
99102 495 218 $56,833 $68,733
99111 4,038 1,714 $73,393 $90,294
99113 560 236 $104,643 $125,879
99136 14 11 $87,708 $68,064
99143 585 276 $38,214 $71,920
99125 611 245 $52,569 $70,879
99130 693 258 $82,000 $101,296

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FAQs about Whitman County demographics 

What is the total population of Whitman County?

Whitman County has a total population of 47,003 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Whitman County?

The gender ratio in Whitman County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (23,722 residents)
  • 49.5% females (23,281 residents)

What is the median age in Whitman County?

The median age in Whitman County is 26.4.

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

The age distribution in Whitman County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13% (6,114 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 34.7% (16,317 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.9% (11,222 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.5% (7,753 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.9% (5,597 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Whitman County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Whitman County is as follows:
  • White: 76.2% (35,796 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.5% (685 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (298 residents)
  • Asian: 6.9% (3,228 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (94 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.9% (5,610 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (1,292 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.6% of the population in Whitman County.

How many housing units are there in Whitman County?

There are 22,091 housing units in Whitman County, reflecting a +4.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Whitman County has a total of 18,721 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Whitman County?

Whitman County has a median household income of $55,406, representing a +4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93% in Whitman County, with a workforce of 23,356 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.5% (19,959 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.5% (3,397 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (2,172 residents)
  • Private companies: 52.5% (12,263 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 32.3% (7,548 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.9% (1,373 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