Waterville, WA
Population 1,353 · Washington
About Waterville, WA
Waterville is a small town located in Washington with a population of 1,353 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $75,854 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Waterville features a median home value of $247,300, which is 1% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Waterville in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,533, 32% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 530 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (384 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (99 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Waterville shows an unemployment rate of 1.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Waterville have an average one-way commute time of 32.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.2% of Waterville 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 17.2% White, 6.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.4% Asian residents, with 11.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Waterville Ranks in Washington
Cost of Living in Waterville, WA
Compared to national averages, Waterville has a median household income of $75,854 (1% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $247,300, which is 1% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,533 is 32% above the US average of $1,163. Within Washington, Waterville's income is 16% below the state average of $90,795, and home values are 46% below the state median of $460,491.
Why Live in Waterville, WA?
Waterville offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $75,854, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.5%, and a low poverty rate of 6.8%, better than the national average.
Waterville has a population of 1,353 with a median age of 48 years. Compare Waterville with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Washington.
Similar Cities Near Waterville
Cities in Washington with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Puyallup | 1,363 | $81,063 | $335,500 | Compare |
| Anderson Island | 1,341 | $72,074 | $477,600 | Compare |
| Clinton | 1,367 | $72,135 | $603,900 | Compare |
| Sumas | 1,384 | $86,500 | $362,000 | Compare |
| Darrington | 1,397 | $64,438 | $373,300 | Compare |
| McMillin | 1,298 | $107,305 | $566,300 | Compare |
| Ruston | 1,293 | $113,971 | $808,200 | Compare |
| Ilwaco | 1,418 | $97,541 | $355,400 | 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 Waterville With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Waterville
What is the population of Waterville, WA?
The population of Waterville, WA is 1,353 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 Waterville?
The median household income in Waterville, WA is $75,854 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Waterville?
The median home value in Waterville, WA is $247,300, which is 1% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Waterville?
The median monthly rent in Waterville, WA is $1,533, which is 32% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Waterville?
The unemployment rate in Waterville, WA is 1.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Waterville, WA a good place to live?
Waterville offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,353 and a median age of 48, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Waterville, WA?
11.2% of residents in Waterville 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 Waterville?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Waterville, WA: median home value is $247,300 (1% above national), median rent is $1,533/month, and median household income is $75,854. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Waterville?
The poverty rate in Waterville, WA is 6.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Waterville, WA?
Waterville's population is 17.2% White, 6.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.4% Asian, and 0.2% two or more races. 11.0% of residents are foreign-born.