Pierce County, Washington Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Pierce County is located in Washington with a total population of 924,106. It is the 2nd most populous county out of 39 in Washington.

Age Demographics

The median age in Pierce County is 36.8 years. This is 4% lower than the state median of 38.2 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Pierce County is $96,632. This is 2% higher than the state median of $94,952. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 23% higher. The poverty rate stands at 8.9%. This is 10% lower than the state poverty rate of 9.9%. The unemployment rate is 5.0%. This is 1% higher than the state rate of 5.0%. The median home value is $484,400. Housing costs are 7% lower than the state median of $519,800. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.0x. 64.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 1% higher than the state average of 63.9%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Pierce County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 62.5% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 12.5%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (6.8% vs 3.8%).

Education

30.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 22% 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 92.5%.