Fife, WA
Population 10,902 · Washington
About Fife, WA
Fife is a mid-sized city located in Washington with a population of 10,902 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $90,515 per year, which is 20% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.9 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Fife features a median home value of $480,600, which is 96% above the national median of $244,900. This places Fife in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,836, 58% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,279 total housing units, 46% are owner-occupied (1,890 units) and 54% are renter-occupied (2,177 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Fife shows an unemployment rate of 5.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 11.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Fife have an average one-way commute time of 26.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
28.0% of Fife 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 11.7% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 4.6% Asian residents, with 24.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Fife, WA
Compared to national averages, Fife has a median household income of $90,515 (20% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $480,600, which is 96% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,836 is 58% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Fife's income is 0% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 4% above the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Fife, WA?
Fife offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $90,515, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 11.5%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $480,600. However, Fife’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Fife has a population of 10,902 with a median age of 31.9 years. Compare Fife with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Fife
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maltby | 10,859 | $179,276 | $914,800 | Compare |
| Airway Heights | 10,766 | $64,659 | $286,900 | Compare |
| Grandview | 11,042 | $59,875 | $232,500 | Compare |
| Birch Bay | 11,103 | $77,120 | $439,100 | Compare |
| Felida | 10,695 | $150,430 | $643,600 | Compare |
| Sumner | 10,674 | $98,376 | $478,500 | Compare |
| Mount Vista | 10,635 | $101,189 | $526,200 | Compare |
| Shelton | 10,619 | $60,589 | $296,100 | 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 Fife With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Fife
What is the population of Fife, WA?
The population of Fife, WA is 10,902 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Washington.
What is the median household income in Fife?
The median household income in Fife, WA is $90,515 per year, which is 20% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Fife?
The median home value in Fife, WA is $480,600, which is 96% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Fife?
The median monthly rent in Fife, WA is $1,836, which is 58% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Fife?
The unemployment rate in Fife, WA is 5.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Fife, WA a good place to live?
Fife offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 10,902 and a median age of 31.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Fife, WA?
28.0% of residents in Fife 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 Fife?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Fife, WA: median home value is $480,600 (96% above national), median rent is $1,836/month, and median household income is $90,515. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Fife?
The poverty rate in Fife, WA is 11.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Fife, WA?
Fife's population is 11.7% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 4.6% Asian, and 9.9% two or more races. 24.5% of residents are foreign-born.