King County, Washington

Income Data

+60% vs. Washington average
$122,148
Median Household Income
$71,062
Per Capita Income

At a Glance

Median Household Income
$122,148
+60% vs. state avg
Per Capita Income
$71,062
+80% vs. national
Income-to-Housing Ratio
15.1%
income as % of home value
Rank in Washington
#1 / 39
by median household income

How King County Compares

King County$122,148
Washington Average$76,363
National Median$74,755

Detailed Income Statistics

$122,148
Median Household Income
$71,062
Per Capita Income
$811,200
Median Home Value
15.1%
Income-to-Housing Ratio

Data Story

About Household Income in King County, Washington

King County Outearns the Nation

King County's median household income of $122,148 towers 63% above the national median of $74,755, making it one of the wealthiest counties in America. This gap reflects the region's concentration of tech, aerospace, and professional service workers who command premium salaries.

Washington's Income Leader

King County ranks first among all Washington counties with a median income 60% higher than the state average of $76,363. Its per capita income of $71,062 also dwarfs the state average of $40,628, revealing extraordinary earning power.

A Tier Above Regional Peers

King County's $122,148 median income vastly outpaces neighbors Kitsap County ($98,546) and Mason County ($78,359), reflecting Seattle's dominant role in the regional economy. The $23,602 gap between King and Kitsap underscores how concentrated high-wage employment is in King County.

High Income, High Housing Costs

Despite exceptional income, King County residents spend 20% of their earnings on rent—just below the national affordability threshold but reflecting median home values of $811,200. Even high earners here face significant housing cost pressures relative to their income.

Leverage King County's Earning Power

With median household income at $122,148, King County residents have substantial capacity to invest beyond housing and living expenses. Consider maximizing retirement contributions, diversifying into real estate or index funds, and consulting a financial advisor to build generational wealth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median household income in King County, Washington?
The median household income in King County, Washington is $122,148, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. This represents the midpoint of all household incomes in the county.
How much do people earn in King County?
The per capita income in King County is $71,062, which represents the average income per person across the entire county population. The median household income — which accounts for all earners in a household — is $122,148.
How does King County compare to the Washington average?
King County's median household income of $122,148 is higher than the Washington state average of $76,363. The per capita income is $71,062, compared to the state average of $40,628.
What is the per capita income in King County, Washington?
The per capita income in King County, Washington is $71,062, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. Per capita income is calculated by dividing total personal income by total population, providing an average income figure per resident.
Why is King County income higher than the Washington average?
King County's median household income of $122,148 is higher than the Washington average of $76,363. This difference of $45,785 can be attributed to factors such as local industry mix, proximity to major employment centers, educational attainment levels, and cost of living. Counties with higher incomes often have a greater concentration of professional and technical occupations.
How does King County rank for income in Washington?
King County ranks #1 out of 39 counties in Washington by median household income (1 = highest). With a median household income of $122,148 and per capita income of $71,062, it falls in the top third of counties statewide.

Income Comparison Calculator

See how your household income compares in King County

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County median: $122,148 per year

vs. County Median

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vs. State Average

+60%

vs. National Median

+63%

vs. King County MedianAbout equal
vs. Washington Average60% above
vs. National Median63% above

Income Adequacy

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Your monthly income ($10,179) vs. median rent ($2,035/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.

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Data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.