Olympia, WA
Population 55,583 · Washington
About Olympia, WA
Olympia is a mid-sized city in Washington with a population of 55,583 residents. The median household income is $76,930 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Olympia is 39.2 years.
Housing in Olympia has a median home value of $457,900 and median monthly rent of $1,509. Of the 26,432 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 12,408 owner-occupied and 12,738 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Olympia is 6.9% and the poverty rate is 14.8%. 50.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 20.5 minutes.
How Olympia Ranks in Washington
Cost of Living in Olympia, WA
Compared to national averages, Olympia has a median household income of $76,930 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $457,900, which is 87% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,509 is 30% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Olympia's income is 15% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 1% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Olympia, WA?
Olympia offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,930, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 50.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 20.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $457,900. However, as a mid-sized city, Olympia provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Olympia has a population of 55,583 with a median age of 39.2 years. Compare Olympia with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Olympia
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lacey | 57,088 | $87,277 | $427,900 | Compare |
| Shoreline | 59,280 | $113,336 | $759,400 | Compare |
| Burien | 51,331 | $90,597 | $609,300 | Compare |
| Richland | 61,912 | $92,550 | $401,800 | Compare |
| Bothell | 48,610 | $132,232 | $871,300 | Compare |
| Lakewood | 63,034 | $70,524 | $420,500 | Compare |
| Sammamish | 66,375 | $227,273 | $1,240,300 | Compare |
| Bremerton | 44,531 | $74,399 | $409,500 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Olympia
What is the population of Olympia, WA?
The population of Olympia, WA is 55,583 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Olympia?
The median household income in Olympia, WA is $76,930 per year.
What is the median home value in Olympia?
The median home value in Olympia, WA is $457,900.
What is the average rent in Olympia?
The median monthly rent in Olympia, WA is $1,509.
What is the unemployment rate in Olympia?
The unemployment rate in Olympia, WA is 6.9%.