McChord AFB, WA
Population 2,895 · Washington
About McChord AFB, WA
McChord AFB is a small town located in Washington with a population of 2,895 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,662 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 23.4 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 McChord AFB features a median home value of $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. This makes McChord AFB one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $2,315, 99% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 909 total housing units, 0% are owner-occupied (0 units) and 100% are renter-occupied (787 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 McChord AFB shows an unemployment rate of 1.8%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 8.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in McChord AFB have an average one-way commute time of 14.3 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
32.4% of McChord AFB 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 17.2% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 6.3% Asian residents, with 3.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in McChord AFB, WA
Compared to national averages, McChord AFB has a median household income of $55,662 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $0, which is 100% below the national median. Monthly rent at $2,315 is 99% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, McChord AFB's income is 39% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 100% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in McChord AFB, WA?
McChord AFB offers affordable housing with a median home value of $0, below the US average of $244,900, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.8%, and a low poverty rate of 8.8%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 14.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,662) that falls below the national average. However, McChord AFB’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
McChord AFB has a population of 2,895 with a median age of 23.4 years. Compare McChord AFB with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near McChord AFB
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medina | 2,889 | $249,688 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Alderton | 2,857 | $95,802 | $486,000 | Compare |
| Sisco Heights | 2,942 | $119,871 | $700,100 | Compare |
| Eatonville | 2,843 | $93,603 | $413,700 | Compare |
| Meadowdale | 2,948 | $147,813 | $753,600 | Compare |
| Desert Aire | 2,953 | $83,482 | $434,600 | Compare |
| Canterwood | 2,964 | $128,676 | $853,500 | Compare |
| Port Ludlow | 2,979 | $92,245 | $590,500 | 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 McChord AFB With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about McChord AFB
What is the population of McChord AFB, WA?
The population of McChord AFB, WA is 2,895 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 McChord AFB?
The median household income in McChord AFB, WA is $55,662 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in McChord AFB?
The median home value in McChord AFB, WA is $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in McChord AFB?
The median monthly rent in McChord AFB, WA is $2,315, which is 99% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in McChord AFB?
The unemployment rate in McChord AFB, WA is 1.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is McChord AFB, WA a good place to live?
McChord AFB offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,895 and a median age of 23.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is McChord AFB, WA?
32.4% of residents in McChord AFB 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 McChord AFB?
Key cost-of-living indicators for McChord AFB, WA: median home value is $0 (100% below national), median rent is $2,315/month, and median household income is $55,662. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in McChord AFB?
The poverty rate in McChord AFB, WA is 8.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is McChord AFB, WA?
McChord AFB's population is 17.2% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 6.3% Asian, and 7.7% two or more races. 3.4% of residents are foreign-born.