Tukwila, WA
Population 21,479 · Washington
About Tukwila, WA
Tukwila is a mid-sized city located in Washington with a population of 21,479 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $80,534 per year, which is 7% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35 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 Tukwila features a median home value of $462,800, which is 89% above the national median of $244,900. This places Tukwila in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,786, 54% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 8,431 total housing units, 40% are owner-occupied (3,195 units) and 60% are renter-occupied (4,723 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Tukwila shows an unemployment rate of 6.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 12.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Tukwila have an average one-way commute time of 26.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.9% of Tukwila 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 19.7% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 2.9% Asian residents, with 38.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Tukwila, WA
Compared to national averages, Tukwila has a median household income of $80,534 (7% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $462,800, which is 89% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,786 is 54% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Tukwila's income is 11% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 1% above the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Tukwila, WA?
Tukwila offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $80,534, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 12.3%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $462,800. However, Tukwila’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Tukwila has a population of 21,479 with a median age of 35 years. Compare Tukwila with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Tukwila
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Five Corners | 21,444 | $102,423 | $432,800 | Compare |
| Mountlake Terrace | 21,419 | $101,404 | $606,100 | Compare |
| Mukilteo | 21,312 | $122,612 | $830,000 | Compare |
| Battle Ground | 21,293 | $100,185 | $452,000 | Compare |
| Silver Firs | 21,796 | $153,026 | $791,700 | Compare |
| Silverdale | 21,046 | $101,445 | $507,600 | Compare |
| Bothell West | 21,014 | $144,941 | $757,700 | Compare |
| Covington | 20,957 | $126,730 | $590,100 | 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 Tukwila With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Tukwila
What is the population of Tukwila, WA?
The population of Tukwila, WA is 21,479 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 Tukwila?
The median household income in Tukwila, WA is $80,534 per year, which is 7% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Tukwila?
The median home value in Tukwila, WA is $462,800, which is 89% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Tukwila?
The median monthly rent in Tukwila, WA is $1,786, which is 54% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Tukwila?
The unemployment rate in Tukwila, WA is 6.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Tukwila, WA a good place to live?
Tukwila offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 21,479 and a median age of 35, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Tukwila, WA?
23.9% of residents in Tukwila 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 Tukwila?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Tukwila, WA: median home value is $462,800 (89% above national), median rent is $1,786/month, and median household income is $80,534. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Tukwila?
The poverty rate in Tukwila, WA is 12.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Tukwila, WA?
Tukwila's population is 19.7% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 2.9% Asian, and 17.4% two or more races. 38.1% of residents are foreign-born.