ZIP 98626 - 860Z200US98626 — Demographic Snapshot (2023)

Overview

If you're considering a move, investment, or business opportunity in ZIP 98626, located in the Kelso area of Washington, this demographic and housing snapshot offers a clear picture of the community. With data from 2023, we’ll break down key metrics like population, income, housing values, and racial composition to help you make informed decisions. Whether you're a homebuyer, real estate investor, small-business owner, or analyst, these insights provide a foundation for understanding the local landscape.

Population & Households

ZIP 98626 is home to a population of 26,948 residents, making it a moderately sized community with a mix of urban and suburban characteristics. These individuals are distributed across 10,190 households, reflecting a diverse range of family structures and living arrangements. With 10,642 total housing units in the area, there’s a slight surplus of homes compared to households, which could indicate some availability for new residents or investors looking for opportunities.

Income & Housing Costs

The median household income in ZIP 98626 stands at $70,058, positioning it as a community with a solid middle-income base. This income level supports a range of lifestyles and purchasing power, which is valuable for businesses targeting local consumers. On the housing front, the median home value is $339,800, reflecting a market that’s accessible compared to many urban centers in Washington, yet still indicative of steady demand. For renters, the median rent is $1,169 per month, offering a more affordable alternative to homeownership for those not ready to buy. These figures suggest a balanced housing market with options for various budgets.

Race & Ethnicity

The demographic makeup of ZIP 98626 is predominantly White, with 84.82% of the population identifying as such. Hispanic or Latino residents make up 6.86% of the community, while Asian and Black populations are smaller, at 1.1% and 0.77%, respectively. This composition points to a relatively homogenous area with some diversity, which may influence cultural amenities, community events, and business opportunities catering to specific groups. Understanding this breakdown can help tailor strategies for engagement, whether you’re a business owner or a potential resident seeking a cultural fit.

Key Facts

• Total population: 26,948 residents in 2023, offering a mid-sized community feel.
• Total households: 10,190, indicating a mix of family and individual living arrangements.
• Total housing units: 10,642, suggesting slight availability in the housing market.
• Median household income: $70,058, reflecting a stable middle-income demographic.
• Median home value: $339,800, a competitive price point for Washington state.
• Median rent: $1,169, providing an affordable option for non-homeowners.
• Racial composition: Predominantly White (84.82%), with Hispanic (6.86%) as the largest minority group.

What This Means for You

For homebuyers, ZIP 98626 offers a promising market with median home values at $339,800, which could be within reach for many middle-income families or individuals earning around the area’s median income of $70,058. The slight surplus of housing units suggests you might have some negotiating power or choice in properties. Real estate investors and agents can see potential in this stable market, where home values indicate growth potential without the extreme competition of larger metro areas. The rental market, with a median rent of $1,169, also supports opportunities for landlord investments catering to a consistent renter base.

For small-business owners, the population of nearly 27,000 and a solid income base provide a reliable customer pool. The demographic makeup, while predominantly White, includes enough diversity to consider niche markets or culturally specific offerings. Finally, analysts can use these metrics to benchmark ZIP 98626 against nearby areas, identifying trends in housing affordability or population shifts that could impact future planning or investment decisions.

Run This Study Yourself

• Curious about other ZIP codes or want to dive deeper into ZIP 98626? Start by visiting ZipcodeGPT for a user-friendly platform to explore demographic and housing data.
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• Use the insights to make data-driven decisions for your next home purchase, investment, or business venture.