Centralia, WA
Population 18,457 · Washington
About Centralia, WA
Centralia is a mid-sized city in Washington with a population of 18,457 residents. The median household income is $52,387 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Centralia is 37.8 years.
Housing in Centralia has a median home value of $267,600 and median monthly rent of $1,003. Of the 7,628 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 4,312 owner-occupied and 3,056 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Centralia is 4.8% and the poverty rate is 19.9%. 17.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 26.3 minutes.
Cost of Living in Centralia, WA
Compared to national averages, Centralia has a median household income of $52,387 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $267,600, which is 9% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,003 is 14% below the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Centralia's income is 42% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 42% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Centralia, WA?
Centralia offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,003/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,387) that falls below the national average. However, Centralia’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Centralia has a population of 18,457 with a median age of 37.8 years. Compare Centralia with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Centralia
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fairwood CDP (King County), Washington | 18,437 | $119,013 | $658,000 | Compare |
| Ellensburg | 18,913 | $49,888 | $357,800 | Compare |
| Anacortes | 17,837 | $89,788 | $647,700 | Compare |
| Bryn Mawr-Skyway | 17,577 | $90,258 | $622,000 | Compare |
| Camano | 17,535 | $100,124 | $600,300 | Compare |
| Salmon Creek | 19,594 | $100,534 | $497,000 | Compare |
| Monroe | 19,696 | $107,556 | $594,300 | Compare |
| West Richland | 17,126 | $118,056 | $404,300 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Centralia
What is the population of Centralia, WA?
The population of Centralia, WA is 18,457 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Centralia?
The median household income in Centralia, WA is $52,387 per year.
What is the median home value in Centralia?
The median home value in Centralia, WA is $267,600.
What is the average rent in Centralia?
The median monthly rent in Centralia, WA is $1,003.
What is the unemployment rate in Centralia?
The unemployment rate in Centralia, WA is 4.8%.