Rainier, WA
Population 2,499 · Washington
About Rainier, WA
Rainier is a small town located in Washington with a population of 2,499 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $101,644 per year, which is 35% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Rainier features a median home value of $388,900, which is 59% above the national median of $244,900. This places Rainier in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,128, 3% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 880 total housing units, 90% are owner-occupied (728 units) and 10% are renter-occupied (79 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Rainier shows an unemployment rate of 8.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Rainier have an average one-way commute time of 35.2 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
19.8% of Rainier 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 5.0% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 2.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Rainier, WA
Compared to national averages, Rainier has a median household income of $101,644 (35% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $388,900, which is 59% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,128 is 3% below the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Rainier's income is 12% above the state average of $90,795, and home values are 16% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Rainier, WA?
Rainier offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $101,644, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,128/month.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $388,900. However, Rainier’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Rainier has a population of 2,499 with a median age of 38.5 years. Compare Rainier with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Rainier
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Yelm | 2,503 | $77,691 | $330,200 | 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 Rainier With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Rainier
What is the population of Rainier, WA?
The population of Rainier, WA is 2,499 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 Rainier?
The median household income in Rainier, WA is $101,644 per year, which is 35% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Rainier?
The median home value in Rainier, WA is $388,900, which is 59% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Rainier?
The median monthly rent in Rainier, WA is $1,128, which is 3% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Rainier?
The unemployment rate in Rainier, WA is 8.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Rainier, WA a good place to live?
Rainier offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,499 and a median age of 38.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Rainier, WA?
19.8% of residents in Rainier 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 Rainier?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Rainier, WA: median home value is $388,900 (59% above national), median rent is $1,128/month, and median household income is $101,644. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Rainier?
The poverty rate in Rainier, WA is 14.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Rainier, WA?
Rainier's population is 5.0% White, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.0% of residents are foreign-born.