Monroe, WA
Population 19,696 · Washington
About Monroe, WA
Monroe is a mid-sized city located in Washington with a population of 19,696 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $107,556 per year, which is 43% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.1 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 Monroe features a median home value of $594,300, which is 143% above the national median of $244,900. This places Monroe in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,902, 64% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 6,241 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (4,323 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (1,790 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Monroe shows an unemployment rate of 4.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 7.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Monroe have an average one-way commute time of 29.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
26.7% of Monroe 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 14.1% White, 3.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 3.1% Asian residents, with 15.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Monroe, WA
Compared to national averages, Monroe has a median household income of $107,556 (43% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $594,300, which is 143% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,902 is 64% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Monroe's income is 18% above the state average of $90,795, and home values are 29% above the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Monroe, WA?
Monroe offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $107,556, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 7.0%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $594,300. However, Monroe’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Monroe has a population of 19,696 with a median age of 35.1 years. Compare Monroe with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Monroe
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salmon Creek | 19,594 | $100,534 | $497,000 | Compare |
| Port Angeles | 20,087 | $61,640 | $324,800 | Compare |
| Ellensburg | 18,913 | $49,888 | $357,800 | Compare |
| Arlington | 20,599 | $84,919 | $492,600 | Compare |
| Mill Creek | 20,846 | $121,578 | $836,300 | Compare |
| Centralia | 18,457 | $52,387 | $267,600 | Compare |
| Fairwood CDP (King County), Washington | 18,437 | $119,013 | $658,000 | Compare |
| Covington | 20,957 | $126,730 | $590,100 | 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 Monroe With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Monroe
What is the population of Monroe, WA?
The population of Monroe, WA is 19,696 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 Monroe?
The median household income in Monroe, WA is $107,556 per year, which is 43% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Monroe?
The median home value in Monroe, WA is $594,300, which is 143% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Monroe?
The median monthly rent in Monroe, WA is $1,902, which is 64% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Monroe?
The unemployment rate in Monroe, WA is 4.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Monroe, WA a good place to live?
Monroe offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 19,696 and a median age of 35.1, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Monroe, WA?
26.7% of residents in Monroe 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 Monroe?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Monroe, WA: median home value is $594,300 (143% above national), median rent is $1,902/month, and median household income is $107,556. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Monroe?
The poverty rate in Monroe, WA is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Monroe, WA?
Monroe's population is 14.1% White, 3.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 3.1% Asian, and 3.5% two or more races. 15.2% of residents are foreign-born.