Ellensburg, WA
Population 18,913 · Washington
About Ellensburg, WA
Ellensburg is a mid-sized city in Washington with a population of 18,913 residents. The median household income is $49,888 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Ellensburg is 26.7 years.
Housing in Ellensburg has a median home value of $357,800 and median monthly rent of $1,258. Of the 9,242 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 3,236 owner-occupied and 5,408 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Ellensburg is 7.6% and the poverty rate is 21.0%. 41.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 17.4 minutes.
Cost of Living in Ellensburg, WA
Compared to national averages, Ellensburg has a median household income of $49,888 (34% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $357,800, which is 46% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,258 is 8% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Ellensburg's income is 45% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 22% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Ellensburg, WA?
Ellensburg offers a well-educated community where 41.3% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 17.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,888) that falls below the national average. However, Ellensburg’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ellensburg has a population of 18,913 with a median age of 26.7 years. Compare Ellensburg with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Ellensburg
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Centralia | 18,457 | $52,387 | $267,600 | Compare |
| Fairwood CDP (King County), Washington | 18,437 | $119,013 | $658,000 | Compare |
| Salmon Creek | 19,594 | $100,534 | $497,000 | Compare |
| Monroe | 19,696 | $107,556 | $594,300 | Compare |
| Anacortes | 17,837 | $89,788 | $647,700 | Compare |
| Port Angeles | 20,087 | $61,640 | $324,800 | Compare |
| Bryn Mawr-Skyway | 17,577 | $90,258 | $622,000 | Compare |
| Camano | 17,535 | $100,124 | $600,300 | 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 Ellensburg
What is the population of Ellensburg, WA?
The population of Ellensburg, WA is 18,913 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Ellensburg?
The median household income in Ellensburg, WA is $49,888 per year.
What is the median home value in Ellensburg?
The median home value in Ellensburg, WA is $357,800.
What is the average rent in Ellensburg?
The median monthly rent in Ellensburg, WA is $1,258.
What is the unemployment rate in Ellensburg?
The unemployment rate in Ellensburg, WA is 7.6%.