As of 2025, Kitsap County’s population is estimated at about 285,143 and the county enjoys a median household income near $98,546.
These figures reflect steady growth since 2020 and show Kitsap’s position as a region of moderate prosperity within the Puget Sound area.
What is Kitsap County and Why Demographics Matter
Kitsap County sits on the Kitsap Peninsula west of Seattle and north of Tacoma, bordered by Puget Sound and Hood Canal.
Its major cities include Bremerton, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and Bainbridge Island, alongside unincorporated communities like Silverdale, Kingston, and Suquamish.
Population size, income levels, and growth rates aren’t just numbers.
They influence how schools get funded, how ferries and transit adapt, where housing gets built, and where small businesses can thrive.
For locals, demographic shifts directly shape daily life and long-term opportunities.
Population: Size, Trends, and Composition
2025 Estimate and Growth
Kitsap County’s 2025 population stands at 285,143, up from 275,611 in 2020. That’s about 3.4% growth in five years. Projections suggest the county will reach more than 292,000 residents by 2030, growing around half a percent annually.
Age and Diversity
The median age is about 41 years, slightly older than the state average. Kitsap also has a diversity index score of just over 54, meaning there’s better than a fifty-fifty chance two randomly chosen residents are of different ethnic backgrounds.
By race and ethnicity, the county remains majority White but includes Hispanic, Asian, multiracial, and Native populations that continue to expand.
This slow but steady diversification is shaping local schools, culture, and neighborhoods.
Households and Housing
Kitsap has roughly 118,000 housing units. Around two-thirds are owner-occupied, while about a quarter are rentals. Vacancy is relatively low, showing strong housing demand.
The average home value is over $700,000, reflecting the county’s desirability as a commuter and lifestyle hub.
Housing stock is mixed: thousands of homes built before World War II still stand, while new construction continues in Silverdale, Port Orchard, and Poulsbo.
Income, Wealth, and Economic Indicators
Median and Average Income
Household incomes are strong by state standards. Median household income is just under $100,000, while average household income is higher, reflecting higher-earning families and professionals who commute to Seattle or Tacoma.
Per capita income sits above $50,000.
Income Distribution and Wealth
More than 6% of households earn $200,000 or more. The average household’s disposable income is around $105,000, and average net worth is estimated near $1.8 million.
These wealth indicators reflect both long-time homeowners with rising property values and military retirees with strong benefits.
Poverty and Unemployment
Despite strong incomes, about 8% of residents live below the poverty line. Unemployment as of mid-2025 sits around 4.1%, higher than earlier in the year but still within normal ranges.
Kitsap’s labor force includes over 120,000 people, with nearly 98,000 employed in non-farm sectors.
Growth Drivers and Challenges
Why Kitsap is Growing
Kitsap’s location makes it attractive for families seeking more space than King County offers, yet still close to jobs in Seattle. Washington State Ferries and Kitsap Transit fast ferries connect locals to downtown Seattle in under an hour.
Naval Base Kitsap provides stable employment and contributes significantly to the economy. Other important sectors include healthcare, professional services, shipbuilding, and tourism.
Constraints and Risks
The same growth pressures highlight risks. Housing affordability continues to be a concern, especially for first-time buyers. Infrastructure, especially ferries, bridges, and highways, often struggles to keep pace with rising demand.
And Kitsap’s economy, while diversified, still relies heavily on federal defense spending, making it vulnerable to national policy shifts.
Comparison with Nearby Counties
| Metric | Kitsap County | King County | Pierce County |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Household Income | ~$98,500 | Much higher | Lower |
| Per Capita Income | ~$51,800 | Higher | Slightly lower |
| Population Growth Rate | ~0.5% annually | Faster | Similar |
| Unemployment (2025) | 4.1% | Lower | Slightly higher |
Kitsap sits in a middle ground: not as wealthy as King, not as economically challenged as some rural counties. This balance makes it a stable choice for many families and small businesses.
Local Context
In Bremerton and Silverdale, rising housing costs are shaping demand for apartments and townhomes. In Poulsbo, population growth is fueling retail and restaurant development.
Bainbridge Island remains one of the wealthiest communities in the county, with some of the highest home values in the state.
Transit is a lifeline. Ferry service directly impacts commuting patterns, and delays or capacity issues ripple through the housing and job markets.
Schools in Central, North, and South Kitsap adapt constantly to changes in enrollment, with growth in some areas and declines in others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current population of Kitsap County?
About 285,000 residents in 2025.
What is the median household income?
Just under $100,000.
How fast is Kitsap County growing?
Roughly 3.4% since 2020, with projected annual growth of about 0.5%.
What is the poverty rate?
Around 8% of residents live below the poverty line.
What is the unemployment rate in 2025?
About 4.1% as of July 2025.
How many housing units are there?
Around 118,000, with most owner-occupied.
Why should residents care about demographics?
They shape housing affordability, business growth, schools, and transportation planning.
Takeaway
Kitsap County in 2025 is a growing, relatively prosperous region. Its strong incomes, stable job base, and steady population growth make it a key part of the Puget Sound area.
At the same time, challenges like housing affordability and infrastructure demand will define the next decade.
For residents and businesses, paying attention to these demographic trends is essential for smart planning and opportunity.
Sources & References
- Kitsap Economic Development Alliance – Community Profile and Demographic Data
- U.S. Census Bureau – American Community Survey and Population Estimates
- Washington State Employment Security Department – Kitsap County Profile 2025
- DataUSA – Kitsap County Income and Demographics
- Washington State Demographics and Housing Data