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

Total population
257,152
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,656/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
92,432
0.9% year-over-year change

Yakima County population

How many people live in Yakima County

Yakima County is home to 257,152 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Yakima County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
257,152
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
128,913
Female
49.9%
128,239
Value Percent YoY change
Male 128,913 50.1% 0.2%
Female 128,239 49.9% 0.2%
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 Yakima County is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.8% are children under 15, then 14.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 21.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.8%
15 to 24
14.7%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
21.2%
Over 65
14.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 61,302 23.8% -1.4%
15 to 24 37,852 14.7% 1.4%
25 to 44 66,128 25.7% 0.7%
45 to 64 54,603 21.2% -0.3%
Over 65 37,267 14.5% 1.8%
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 Yakima County, 80.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 46.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. Another 3.2% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 20.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 26.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
80.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.1%
Non-citizens
12.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 207,488 80.7% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 18,354 7.1% 2.9%
Non-citizens 31,310 12.2% -3.0%
Racial breakdown
White
46.8%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.2%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
26.8%
Other
20.9%
Value Percent
White 120,276 46.8%
Black or African American 1,804 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 8,138 3.2%
Asian 3,182 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 942 0.4%
Two or more races 68,963 26.8%
Other 53,847 20.9%

Households in Yakima County

A peek inside Yakima County households

Yakima County has 87,708 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 70.2% are families, while the remaining 29.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
87,708
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
26,131
Family households
61,577
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 26,131 29.8% 3.5%
Family households 61,577 70.2% 0.2%
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 Yakima County

The housing landscape of Yakima County

Yakima County's housing consists of 92,432 units, with 66.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% 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 11.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
92,432
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 61,270 66.3%
1 unit, attached 2,832 3.1%
2 units 3,809 4.1%
3 or 4 units 3,719 4%
5 to 9 units 3,147 3.4%
10 to 19 units 2,587 2.8%
20 to 49 units 2,137 2.3%
50 or more units 2,266 2.4%
Mobile home 10,433 11.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 232 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
1,225
69.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Yakima County

In Yakima County, the median construction year is 1977. About 13.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,410 13.4% -1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 6,610 7.2% -0.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,297 9% -0.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 8,580 9.3% -2.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 15,837 17.1% -6.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 9,871 10.7% 6.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,538 12.5% -1.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 10,240 11.1% 3.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 7,824 8.5% 13.8%
Built in 2020 or later 1,225 1.3% 69.4%
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.

Yakima County occupancy rates

Out of the 87,708 occupied housing units in Yakima County, 61.8% are owner-occupied, while 38.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
87,708
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
33,464
Owner occupied
54,244
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 33,464 38.2% 2.7%
Owner occupied 54,244 61.8% 0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
5.1%
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.

Yakima County housing costs

Housing costs in Yakima County come to a median of $1,120 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,109.

Median housing costs per month
$1,120/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 Yakima County
$1,109/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 Yakima County

Yakima County education at a glance

About 43.5% of the population in Yakima County went to high school, while 19.2% pursued college studies. Another 8% earned an associate degree and 11.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 21,821 11.9% -3.4%
High school diploma 79,495 43.5% 3.5%
College diploma 35,003 19.2% -2.5%
Associate degree 14,555 8% -2.9%
Bachelor's degree 20,823 11.4% 2.1%
Graduate degree 11,057 6% 2.5%
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 Yakima County

How much people earn in Yakima County

The average annual household income in Yakima County was $88,451 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,656, reflecting a +3.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Yakima County
$88,451/year
3.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Yakima County
$70,656/year
3.9% year-over-year change

Yakima County income by age

In Yakima County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,860. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $83,778 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,660, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,102 in earnings. Overall, 84.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,660 10.2%
25 - 44 $74,860 4.4%
45 - 64 $83,778 3.8%
Over 65 $55,102 5.5%
Above poverty level
211,805
Below poverty level
38,546
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 211,805 84.6% 0.1%
Below poverty level 38,546 15.4% 0.3%

Employment in Yakima County

Workforce and job types in Yakima County

The job market in Yakima County is powered by 110,078 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.3% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 16.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
110,078
-0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
69,821
Blue collar
40,257
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 69,821 63.4% 0.8%
Blue collar 40,257 36.6% -1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.3%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
16.8%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 9,089 8.3% 1.8%
Private companies 73,922 67.2% -0.3%
Governmental workers 18,504 16.8% 1.8%
Not for profit companies 8,563 7.8% -3.6%
Unemployment rate
7.3%
3.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Yakima County stands at 7.3%, 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 Yakima County

How people get around in Yakima County

Commuting methods vary: 90.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% 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 96,414 90.2% -1.2%
Taxicab 72 0.1% 500.0%
Bus or trolleybus 238 0.2% -12.5%
Railroad 45 0% -11.8%
Motorcycle 154 0.1% -19.8%
Bicycle 221 0.2% -24.1%
Walk 1,302 1.2% -4.1%
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 Yakima County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98901 31,366 11,246 $57,392 $77,638
98902 46,492 17,189 $63,092 $80,321
98903 19,445 6,519 $75,343 $93,661
98908 38,060 14,796 $84,197 $103,232
98921 124 26 $0 $0
98923 994 571 $47,776 $61,182
98930 15,730 4,923 $64,583 $81,014
98932 5,742 1,498 $71,806 $80,281
98933 1,230 385 $75,972 $88,151

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FAQs about Yakima County demographics 

What is the total population of Yakima County?

Yakima County has a total population of 257,152 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 Yakima County?

The gender ratio in Yakima County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (128,913 residents)
  • 49.9% females (128,239 residents)

What is the median age in Yakima County?

The median age in Yakima County is 33.3.

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

The age distribution in Yakima County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.8% (61,302 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.7% (37,852 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (66,128 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.2% (54,603 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.5% (37,267 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Yakima County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Yakima County is as follows:
  • White: 46.8% (120,276 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (1,804 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.2% (8,138 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (3,182 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (942 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 26.8% (68,963 residents)
  • Other: 20.9% (53,847 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 80.7% of the population in Yakima County.

How many housing units are there in Yakima County?

There are 92,432 housing units in Yakima County, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Yakima County has a total of 87,708 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Yakima County?

Yakima County has a median household income of $70,656, representing a +3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.7% in Yakima County, with a workforce of 110,078 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.4% (69,821 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.6% (40,257 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.3% (9,089 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (73,922 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.8% (18,504 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (8,563 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