South Cle Elum, WA
Population 707 · Washington
About South Cle Elum, WA
South Cle Elum is a small community located in Washington with a population of 707 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,268 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.6 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 South Cle Elum features a median home value of $375,000, which is 53% above the national median of $244,900. This places South Cle Elum in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,193, 3% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 348 total housing units, 62% are owner-occupied (199 units) and 38% are renter-occupied (120 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Cle Elum shows an unemployment rate of 7.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 32.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in South Cle Elum have an average one-way commute time of 25.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
24.9% of South Cle Elum 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 7.4% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 0.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in South Cle Elum, WA
Compared to national averages, South Cle Elum has a median household income of $60,268 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $375,000, which is 53% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,193 is 3% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, South Cle Elum's income is 34% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 19% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in South Cle Elum, WA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,268) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $375,000. However, South Cle Elum’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South Cle Elum has a population of 707 with a median age of 34.6 years. Compare South Cle Elum with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about South Cle Elum
What is the population of South Cle Elum, WA?
The population of South Cle Elum, WA is 707 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Washington.
What is the median household income in South Cle Elum?
The median household income in South Cle Elum, WA is $60,268 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Cle Elum?
The median home value in South Cle Elum, WA is $375,000, which is 53% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Cle Elum?
The median monthly rent in South Cle Elum, WA is $1,193, which is 3% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Cle Elum?
The unemployment rate in South Cle Elum, WA is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Cle Elum, WA a good place to live?
South Cle Elum offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 707 and a median age of 34.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is South Cle Elum, WA?
24.9% of residents in South Cle Elum 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 South Cle Elum?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Cle Elum, WA: median home value is $375,000 (53% above national), median rent is $1,193/month, and median household income is $60,268. The home-value-to-income ratio is 6.2x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in South Cle Elum?
The poverty rate in South Cle Elum, WA is 32.0%, 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 South Cle Elum, WA?
South Cle Elum's population is 7.4% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.8% of residents are foreign-born.