Island County, Washington Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Island County is located in Washington with a total population of 86,747. It is the 15th most populous county out of 39 in Washington.

Age Demographics

The median age in Island County is 44.5 years. This is 16% higher than the state median of 38.2 years. 10.3% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Island County is $88,358. This is 7% lower than the state median of $94,952. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 13% higher. The poverty rate stands at 7.0%. This is 30% lower than the state poverty rate of 9.9%. The unemployment rate is 4.7%. This is 6% lower than the state rate of 5.0%. The median home value is $535,300. Housing costs are 3% higher than the state median of $519,800. The home-value-to-income ratio of 6.1x suggests that housing affordability is a significant concern for many residents. 74.7% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 17% higher than the state average of 63.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Island County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 76.6% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 8.5%.

Education

35.7% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 8% lower than the state rate of 38.8%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 95.9%.