Bethel, WA
Population 4,276 · Washington
About Bethel, WA
Bethel is a small town located in Washington with a population of 4,276 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $84,214 per year, which is 12% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.4 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Bethel features a median home value of $440,800, which is 80% above the national median of $244,900. This places Bethel in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,195, 3% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,664 total housing units, 90% are owner-occupied (1,472 units) and 10% are renter-occupied (156 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bethel shows an unemployment rate of 11.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 8.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Bethel have an average one-way commute time of 27.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
24.1% of Bethel residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 4.3% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.6% Asian residents, with 9.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Bethel, WA
Compared to national averages, Bethel has a median household income of $84,214 (12% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $440,800, which is 80% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,195 is 3% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Bethel's income is 7% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 4% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Bethel, WA?
Bethel offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $84,214, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 8.6%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $440,800. However, Bethel’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bethel has a population of 4,276 with a median age of 42.4 years. Compare Bethel with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Bethel
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rosedale | 4,267 | $149,632 | $816,000 | Compare |
| Chelan | 4,314 | $71,996 | $428,200 | Compare |
| Boulevard Park | 4,334 | $75,646 | $468,400 | Compare |
| Mirrormont | 4,217 | $182,283 | $950,100 | Compare |
| Montesano | 4,157 | $65,938 | $331,300 | Compare |
| Longview Heights | 4,403 | $90,592 | $443,000 | Compare |
| Lexington | 4,495 | $101,417 | $344,200 | Compare |
| Larch Way | 4,046 | $141,429 | $796,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Washington
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Bethel With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bethel
What is the population of Bethel, WA?
The population of Bethel, WA is 4,276 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Washington.
What is the median household income in Bethel?
The median household income in Bethel, WA is $84,214 per year, which is 12% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bethel?
The median home value in Bethel, WA is $440,800, which is 80% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bethel?
The median monthly rent in Bethel, WA is $1,195, which is 3% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bethel?
The unemployment rate in Bethel, WA is 11.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bethel, WA a good place to live?
Bethel offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,276 and a median age of 42.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Bethel, WA?
24.1% of residents in Bethel aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Bethel?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bethel, WA: median home value is $440,800 (80% above national), median rent is $1,195/month, and median household income is $84,214. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.2x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Bethel?
The poverty rate in Bethel, WA is 8.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Bethel, WA?
Bethel's population is 4.3% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.6% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 9.4% of residents are foreign-born.