Yakima, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
96,961
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,815/yr
6.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
37,467
0.4% year-over-year change

Yakima population

How many people live in Yakima

Yakima is home to 96,961 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Yakima locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
96,961
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
47,708
Female
50.8%
49,253
Value Percent YoY change
Male 47,708 49.2% -1.2%
Female 49,253 50.8% 1.5%
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 is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.4% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.5% of the population, while another 20.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.4%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
26.5%
45 to 64
20.1%
Over 65
16.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 22,717 23.4% 0.2%
15 to 24 13,009 13.4% -1.4%
25 to 44 25,689 26.5% 0.9%
45 to 64 19,477 20.1% -1.0%
Over 65 16,069 16.6% 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, 81.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 48.3% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. Another 1.4% are Indigenous American, 0.6% are Pacific Islanders, while 20.3% 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
81.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.1%
Non-citizens
11%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 79,409 81.9% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,911 7.1% 1.1%
Non-citizens 10,641 11% -6.9%
Racial breakdown
White
48.3%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.6%
Two or more races
26.8%
Other
20.3%
Value Percent
White 46,861 48.3%
Black or African American 1,051 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,328 1.4%
Asian 1,475 1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 603 0.6%
Two or more races 25,974 26.8%
Other 19,669 20.3%

Households in Yakima

A peek inside Yakima households

Yakima has 35,726 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 63.5% are families, while the remaining 36.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
35,726
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
13,047
Family households
22,679
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 13,047 36.5% 1.1%
Family households 22,679 63.5% 0.4%
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

The housing landscape of Yakima

Yakima's housing consists of 37,467 units, with 59.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.7% 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 5.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
37,467
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 22,133 59.1%
1 unit, attached 1,764 4.7%
2 units 2,571 6.9%
3 or 4 units 2,516 6.7%
5 to 9 units 1,818 4.8%
10 to 19 units 1,772 4.7%
20 to 49 units 1,445 3.9%
50 or more units 1,294 3.4%
Mobile home 1,996 5.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 158 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
568
57.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Yakima

In Yakima, the median construction year is 1972. About 17.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,503 17.4% -4.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,266 8.7% -1.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,630 9.7% 8.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,758 10% -1.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,309 16.8% -6.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,861 10.3% 10.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,542 9.4% 1.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,626 9.7% -0.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,404 6.4% 4.4%
Built in 2020 or later 568 1.5% 57.8%
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.

Yakima occupancy rates

Out of the 35,726 occupied housing units in Yakima, 53.8% are owner-occupied, while 46.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
35,726
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
16,489
Owner occupied
19,237
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 16,489 46.2% -0.2%
Owner occupied 19,237 53.8% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
4.6%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Yakima come to a median of $1,115 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,117.

Median housing costs per month
$1,115/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
$1,117/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

Yakima education at a glance

About 42.2% of the population in Yakima went to high school, while 21.4% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6,902 9.9% -6.9%
High school diploma 29,568 42.2% 2.6%
College diploma 15,011 21.4% 1.0%
Associate degree 5,380 7.7% -5.2%
Bachelor's degree 8,516 12.2% -0.5%
Graduate degree 4,636 6.6% 0.7%
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

How much people earn in Yakima

The average annual household income in Yakima was $81,525 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,815, reflecting a +6.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Yakima
$81,525/year
4.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Yakima
$62,815/year
6.1% year-over-year change

Yakima income by age

In Yakima, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,676. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,612 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,358, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,472 in earnings. Overall, 83.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,358 2.0%
25 - 44 $66,676 7.2%
45 - 64 $75,612 5.7%
Over 65 $53,472 9.7%
Above poverty level
78,149
Below poverty level
15,475
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 78,149 83.5% 0.6%
Below poverty level 15,475 16.5% -2.2%

Average renter income in Yakima

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Yakima, their median household income was $40,046 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$40,046
Rent-to-income ratio
33.5%
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 Yakima

Workforce and job types in Yakima

The job market in Yakima is powered by 39,664 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 68.6% are employed by private companies, and 15.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
39,664
-1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
26,884
Blue collar
12,780
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 26,884 67.8% 0.1%
Blue collar 12,780 32.2% -3.4%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
68.6%
Governmental workers
15.4%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,688 6.8% 8.7%
Private companies 27,193 68.6% -1.9%
Governmental workers 6,114 15.4% -3.4%
Not for profit companies 3,669 9.2% 3.3%
Unemployment rate
8.4%
4.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Yakima stands at 8.4%, 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

How people get around in Yakima

In Yakima, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
1.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 34,810 89.3% -2.6%
Taxicab 12 0% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 88 0.2% -42.1%
Motorcycle 77 0.2% -8.3%
Bicycle 115 0.3% -20.7%
Walk 627 1.6% 20.1%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
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

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FAQs about Yakima demographics 

What is the total population of Yakima?

Yakima has a total population of 96,961 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?

The gender ratio in Yakima is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (47,708 residents)
  • 50.8% females (49,253 residents)

What is the median age in Yakima?

The median age in Yakima is 34.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Yakima?

The age distribution in Yakima is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.4% (22,717 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (13,009 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.5% (25,689 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.1% (19,477 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.6% (16,069 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Yakima?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Yakima is as follows:
  • White: 48.3% (46,861 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (1,051 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (1,328 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (1,475 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.6% (603 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 26.8% (25,974 residents)
  • Other: 20.3% (19,669 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 81.9% of the population in Yakima.

How many housing units are there in Yakima?

There are 37,467 housing units in Yakima, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Yakima has a total of 35,726 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Yakima?

Yakima has a median household income of $62,815, representing a +6.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.6% in Yakima, with a workforce of 39,664 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.8% (26,884 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.2% (12,780 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (2,688 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.6% (27,193 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.4% (6,114 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (3,669 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