Shelton, WA
Population 10,619 · Washington
About Shelton, WA
Shelton is a mid-sized city located in Washington with a population of 10,619 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,589 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.6 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 Shelton features a median home value of $296,100, which is 21% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Shelton in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,298, 12% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,789 total housing units, 53% are owner-occupied (1,823 units) and 47% are renter-occupied (1,620 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Shelton shows an unemployment rate of 5.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 23.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Shelton have an average one-way commute time of 27.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.8% of Shelton 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 8.9% White, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.6% Black or African American, and 17.1% Asian residents, with 15.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Shelton, WA
Compared to national averages, Shelton has a median household income of $60,589 (19% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $296,100, which is 21% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,298 is 12% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Shelton's income is 33% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 36% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Shelton, WA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,589) that falls below the national average. However, Shelton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Shelton has a population of 10,619 with a median age of 31.6 years. Compare Shelton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Shelton
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yelm | 10,618 | $88,279 | $439,100 | Compare |
| Mount Vista | 10,635 | $101,189 | $526,200 | Compare |
| Lake Morton-Berrydale | 10,591 | $127,074 | $661,400 | Compare |
| Sumner | 10,674 | $98,376 | $478,500 | Compare |
| Felida | 10,695 | $150,430 | $643,600 | Compare |
| Airway Heights | 10,766 | $64,659 | $286,900 | Compare |
| Fairwood CDP (Spokane County), Washington | 10,439 | $84,911 | $435,200 | Compare |
| Vashon | 10,424 | $115,750 | $717,700 | 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 Shelton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Shelton
What is the population of Shelton, WA?
The population of Shelton, WA is 10,619 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 Shelton?
The median household income in Shelton, WA is $60,589 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Shelton?
The median home value in Shelton, WA is $296,100, which is 21% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Shelton?
The median monthly rent in Shelton, WA is $1,298, which is 12% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Shelton?
The unemployment rate in Shelton, WA is 5.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Shelton, WA a good place to live?
Shelton offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 10,619 and a median age of 31.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Shelton, WA?
18.8% of residents in Shelton 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 Shelton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Shelton, WA: median home value is $296,100 (21% above national), median rent is $1,298/month, and median household income is $60,589. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.9x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Shelton?
The poverty rate in Shelton, WA is 23.3%, 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 Shelton, WA?
Shelton's population is 8.9% White, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.6% Black or African American, 17.1% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 15.3% of residents are foreign-born.