North Yelm, WA
Population 2,503 · Washington
About North Yelm, WA
North Yelm is a small town located in Washington with a population of 2,503 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $77,691 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.6 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 North Yelm features a median home value of $330,200, which is 35% above the national median of $244,900. This positions North Yelm in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,379, 19% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,124 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (811 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (229 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in North Yelm shows an unemployment rate of 2.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 1.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in North Yelm have an average one-way commute time of 31 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.9% of North Yelm residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 1.3% White, 6.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 2.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in North Yelm, WA
Compared to national averages, North Yelm has a median household income of $77,691 (3% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $330,200, which is 35% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,379 is 19% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, North Yelm's income is 14% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 28% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in North Yelm, WA?
North Yelm offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $77,691, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.4%, and a low poverty rate of 1.0%, better than the national average.
North Yelm has a population of 2,503 with a median age of 42.6 years. Compare North Yelm with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near North Yelm
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rainier | 2,499 | $101,644 | $388,900 | Compare |
| Burley | 2,516 | $96,897 | $651,900 | Compare |
| Mabton | 2,481 | $54,722 | $172,200 | Compare |
| Okanogan | 2,477 | $73,273 | $238,500 | Compare |
| Carnation | 2,476 | $141,097 | $775,800 | Compare |
| Warden | 2,531 | $52,344 | $171,900 | Compare |
| White Salmon | 2,533 | $73,406 | $566,300 | Compare |
| Meadow Glade | 2,534 | $129,167 | $626,500 | 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 North Yelm With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about North Yelm
What is the population of North Yelm, WA?
The population of North Yelm, WA is 2,503 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 North Yelm?
The median household income in North Yelm, WA is $77,691 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in North Yelm?
The median home value in North Yelm, WA is $330,200, which is 35% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in North Yelm?
The median monthly rent in North Yelm, WA is $1,379, which is 19% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in North Yelm?
The unemployment rate in North Yelm, WA is 2.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is North Yelm, WA a good place to live?
North Yelm offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,503 and a median age of 42.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is North Yelm, WA?
10.9% of residents in North Yelm 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 North Yelm?
Key cost-of-living indicators for North Yelm, WA: median home value is $330,200 (35% above national), median rent is $1,379/month, and median household income is $77,691. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in North Yelm?
The poverty rate in North Yelm, WA is 1.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is North Yelm, WA?
North Yelm's population is 1.3% White, 6.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.4% of residents are foreign-born.