Kelso, WA
Population 12,697 · Washington
About Kelso, WA
Kelso is a mid-sized city in Washington with a population of 12,697 residents. The median household income is $59,462 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Kelso is 38.4 years.
Housing in Kelso has a median home value of $302,300 and median monthly rent of $1,131. Of the 5,516 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,899 owner-occupied and 2,390 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Kelso is 5.0% and the poverty rate is 19.5%. 11.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.3 minutes.
Cost of Living in Kelso, WA
Compared to national averages, Kelso has a median household income of $59,462 (21% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $302,300, which is 23% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,131 is 3% below the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Kelso's income is 35% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 34% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Kelso, WA?
Kelso offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,131/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,462) that falls below the national average. However, Kelso’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Kelso has a population of 12,697 with a median age of 38.4 years. Compare Kelso with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Kelso
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edgewood | 12,683 | $114,342 | $664,000 | Compare |
| Enumclaw | 12,663 | $116,563 | $498,700 | Compare |
| Sedro-Woolley | 12,633 | $72,140 | $390,200 | Compare |
| Ridgefield | 12,576 | $117,550 | $590,200 | Compare |
| Cheney | 12,830 | $47,039 | $330,300 | Compare |
| Lakeland South | 12,869 | $105,273 | $530,900 | Compare |
| Newcastle | 12,945 | $162,646 | $1,128,200 | Compare |
| Liberty Lake | 12,435 | $105,599 | $506,000 | 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 Kelso
What is the population of Kelso, WA?
The population of Kelso, WA is 12,697 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Kelso?
The median household income in Kelso, WA is $59,462 per year.
What is the median home value in Kelso?
The median home value in Kelso, WA is $302,300.
What is the average rent in Kelso?
The median monthly rent in Kelso, WA is $1,131.
What is the unemployment rate in Kelso?
The unemployment rate in Kelso, WA is 5.0%.