Dayton, WA
Population 2,695 · Washington
About Dayton, WA
Dayton is a small town located in Washington with a population of 2,695 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $71,687 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.3 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 Dayton features a median home value of $223,900, which is 9% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Dayton in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $926, 20% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,505 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (1,001 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (300 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Dayton shows an unemployment rate of 4.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 11.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Dayton have an average one-way commute time of 18.2 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
22.7% of Dayton residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 9.3% White, 9.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 4.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Dayton, WA
Compared to national averages, Dayton has a median household income of $71,687 (5% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $223,900, which is 9% below the national median. Monthly rent at $926 is 20% below the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Dayton's income is 21% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 51% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Dayton, WA?
Dayton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $223,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $926/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.8%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 18.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($71,687) that falls below the national average. However, Dayton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Dayton has a population of 2,695 with a median age of 51.3 years. Compare Dayton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Dayton
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Friday Harbor | 2,685 | $69,954 | $515,000 | Compare |
| Fobes Hill | 2,683 | $132,250 | $777,100 | Compare |
| Leavenworth | 2,676 | $74,653 | $564,100 | Compare |
| Peaceful Valley | 2,661 | $60,271 | $267,300 | Compare |
| Allyn | 2,656 | $107,823 | $527,200 | Compare |
| Big Lake | 2,648 | $119,000 | $659,800 | Compare |
| Colfax | 2,785 | $56,929 | $246,300 | Compare |
| Kingston | 2,585 | $99,345 | $448,600 | 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 Dayton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Dayton
What is the population of Dayton, WA?
The population of Dayton, WA is 2,695 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 Dayton?
The median household income in Dayton, WA is $71,687 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Dayton?
The median home value in Dayton, WA is $223,900, which is 9% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Dayton?
The median monthly rent in Dayton, WA is $926, which is 20% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Dayton?
The unemployment rate in Dayton, WA is 4.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Dayton, WA a good place to live?
Dayton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,695 and a median age of 51.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Dayton, WA?
22.7% of residents in Dayton 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 Dayton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Dayton, WA: median home value is $223,900 (9% below national), median rent is $926/month, and median household income is $71,687. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Dayton?
The poverty rate in Dayton, WA is 11.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Dayton, WA?
Dayton's population is 9.3% White, 9.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 4.5% of residents are foreign-born.