Spokane, WA
Population 229,228 · Washington
About Spokane, WA
Spokane is a major city located in Washington with a population of 229,228 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,745 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Spokane features a median home value of $326,200, which is 33% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Spokane in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,141, 2% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 102,062 total housing units, 58% are owner-occupied (56,329 units) and 42% are renter-occupied (40,273 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Spokane shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Spokane have an average one-way commute time of 21.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.6% of Spokane 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 5.2% White, 4.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 1.9% Asian residents, with 6.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Spokane Ranks in Washington
Cost of Living in Spokane, WA
Compared to national averages, Spokane has a median household income of $65,745 (13% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $326,200, which is 33% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,141 is 2% below the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Spokane's income is 28% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 29% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Spokane, WA?
Spokane offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,141/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,745) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Spokane provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Spokane has a population of 229,228 with a median age of 37.2 years. Compare Spokane with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Spokane
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tacoma | 220,482 | $83,857 | $454,600 | Compare |
| Vancouver | 192,696 | $78,156 | $440,300 | Compare |
| Bellevue | 151,199 | $161,300 | $1,203,100 | Compare |
| Kent | 135,015 | $90,416 | $537,500 | Compare |
| Everett | 111,083 | $81,502 | $532,300 | Compare |
| Spokane Valley | 105,460 | $70,722 | $344,300 | Compare |
| Renton | 105,279 | $96,626 | $631,400 | Compare |
| Federal Way | 99,232 | $82,144 | $499,600 | 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 Spokane With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Spokane
What is the population of Spokane, WA?
The population of Spokane, WA is 229,228 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Washington.
What is the median household income in Spokane?
The median household income in Spokane, WA is $65,745 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Spokane?
The median home value in Spokane, WA is $326,200, which is 33% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Spokane?
The median monthly rent in Spokane, WA is $1,141, which is 2% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Spokane?
The unemployment rate in Spokane, WA is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Spokane, WA a good place to live?
Spokane offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 229,228 and a median age of 37.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Spokane, WA?
32.6% of residents in Spokane 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 Spokane?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Spokane, WA: median home value is $326,200 (33% above national), median rent is $1,141/month, and median household income is $65,745. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.0x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Spokane?
The poverty rate in Spokane, WA is 14.6%, 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 Spokane, WA?
Spokane's population is 5.2% White, 4.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 1.9% Asian, and 2.6% two or more races. 6.1% of residents are foreign-born.