Key Center, WA
Population 3,619 · Washington
About Key Center, WA
Key Center is a small town located in Washington with a population of 3,619 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $100,405 per year, which is 34% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.3 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 Key Center features a median home value of $558,200, which is 128% above the national median of $244,900. This places Key Center in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,641, 41% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,729 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (1,282 units) and 12% are renter-occupied (172 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Key Center shows an unemployment rate of 8.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 7.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Key Center have an average one-way commute time of 37 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
28.2% of Key Center 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 1.0% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.2% Asian residents, with 1.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Key Center, WA
Compared to national averages, Key Center has a median household income of $100,405 (34% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $558,200, which is 128% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,641 is 41% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Key Center's income is 11% above the state average of $90,795, and home values are 21% above the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Key Center, WA?
Key Center offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $100,405, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 7.2%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $558,200. However, Key Center’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Key Center has a population of 3,619 with a median age of 45.3 years. Compare Key Center with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Key Center
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burbank | 3,645 | $86,221 | $355,600 | Compare |
| Granger | 3,658 | $53,287 | $149,600 | Compare |
| Lake Holm | 3,664 | $119,608 | $720,700 | Compare |
| Ahtanum | 3,570 | $82,188 | $293,000 | Compare |
| Marietta-Alderwood | 3,569 | $62,243 | $493,200 | Compare |
| Sunnyslope | 3,674 | $131,250 | $677,600 | Compare |
| Benton City | 3,559 | $52,581 | $262,800 | Compare |
| Canyon Creek | 3,556 | $67,295 | $392,400 | 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 Key Center With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Key Center
What is the population of Key Center, WA?
The population of Key Center, WA is 3,619 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 Key Center?
The median household income in Key Center, WA is $100,405 per year, which is 34% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Key Center?
The median home value in Key Center, WA is $558,200, which is 128% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Key Center?
The median monthly rent in Key Center, WA is $1,641, which is 41% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Key Center?
The unemployment rate in Key Center, WA is 8.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Key Center, WA a good place to live?
Key Center offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,619 and a median age of 45.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Key Center, WA?
28.2% of residents in Key Center 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 Key Center?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Key Center, WA: median home value is $558,200 (128% above national), median rent is $1,641/month, and median household income is $100,405. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.6x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Key Center?
The poverty rate in Key Center, WA is 7.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Key Center, WA?
Key Center's population is 1.0% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 1.9% of residents are foreign-born.