Washington Population Pyramid 2024
Washington Population Pyramid 2024
Current age and gender distribution for Washington's 8,090,622 residents
Washington Population Changes 2000-2024
Watch how Washington's demographics evolved over the past 24 years
Historical Demographic Changes
Watch how Washington's population structure evolved from 2000 to 2024
Washington Demographics Overview
Total Population
8,090,622
2024
Median Age
38.0 yrs
US: 38.5
Sex Ratio
101
M per 100 F
Growth '00-'24
+35.0%
24-year
Age Structure
Dependency Ratios
Gender Balance
Historical Trends
Key Demographics
| Total Population | 8,090,622 |
| Male Population | 4,057,902(50.2%) |
| Female Population | 4,032,720(49.8%) |
| Median Age | 38.0 years |
| Sex Ratio | 100.6 males per 100 females |
| Youth (0-14) | 1,357,654(16.8%) |
| Working Age (15-64) | 5,485,821(67.8%) |
| Elderly (65+) | 1,247,147(15.4%) |
| Total Dependency Ratio | 47.5 |
| Youth Dependency Ratio | 24.7 |
| Old Age Dependency Ratio | 22.7 |
| Pyramid Type | Constrictive |
Dependency Ratios: Number of dependents per 100 working-age individuals.
Detailed Washington Demographic Analysis
Gender Distribution
Washington's population of 8,090,622 consists of 4,057,902 males (50.2%) and 4,032,720 females (49.8%). This represents a sex ratio of 101 males per 100 females, which is relatively balanced compared to the national average.
The gender balance varies significantly across age groups. In younger cohorts (0-24 years), males slightly outnumber females, which is typical due to naturally higher male birth rates. However, in older age groups (65+), females substantially outnumber males due to their longer life expectancy. This pattern has important implications for healthcare planning, particularly for gender-specific medical services and elder care facilities.
Age Structure and Dependency Ratios
The median age of 38 years places Washington below the national median, indicating a middle-aged population profile. The youth dependency ratio stands at N/A, meaning there are approximately N/A children and teenagers for every 100 working-age adults. Meanwhile, the old-age dependency ratio is 22.7, indicating 23 seniors for every 100 working-age residents.
The total dependency ratio of N/A suggests that each working-age person in Washingtontheoretically supports N/A dependents. This ratio is crucial for understanding the economic burden on the productive population and has direct implications for tax policy, social services funding, and workforce development strategies.
Labor Force and Economic Potential
Washington's working-age population (15-64 years) comprises 67.8% of the total population, representing approximately 5,485,821 potential workers. This demographic segment is the economic engine of the state, generating tax revenue, driving consumer spending, and supporting both younger and older dependents.
Within the working-age population, the distribution across age cohorts reveals important economic dynamics. The 25-54 age range, often considered prime working years, represents the core of Washington's labor force. The size and growth trajectory of this group directly impacts economic productivity, housing demand, and consumer market dynamics.With a robust 67.8% working-age population, Washington is well-positioned for economic growth.
Youth Demographics and Future Workforce
The youth population (ages 0-14) accounts for 16.8% of Washington's total population, numbering approximately 1,357,654 children and teenagers. This cohort represents the future workforce and tax base of the state. The size of this group relative to the total population indicates potential challenges in maintaining population levels without migration.
Educational infrastructure requirements are directly tied to youth population size. With approximately 452,551 children in each 5-year age cohort,Washington must maintain adequate capacity in elementary, middle, and high schools. The transition of these youth cohorts into working age over the next two decades will be critical for replacing retiring baby boomers and maintaining economic vitality.
Aging Population and Healthcare Implications
Washington's senior population (65+) comprises 15.4% of residents, totaling approximately 1,247,147 individuals. This represents a moderately aged population with growing senior care needs. The aging index of 91.9 indicates there are 92 seniors for every 100 children under 15, reflecting the state's position in the demographic transition.
Healthcare system capacity becomes increasingly critical with 15.4% of the population in age groups with higher medical needs. The 85+ population, requiring the most intensive care, represents the fastest-growing segment in many states. Washington must plan for expanded geriatric care, assisted living facilities, and specialized medical services. The potential support ratio of 4.4means there are approximately 4 working-age adults for each senior, a critical metric for understanding the sustainability of pension systems and senior care programs.
Population Growth and Migration Patterns
Between 2000 and 2024, Washington's population evolved from 5,995,173 to 8,090,622, representing a 35.0% increase. This translates to an average annual growth rate of 1.26%,exceeding the national average.
The median age shift from 35 years in 2000 to 38 years in 2024 reflects broader demographic transitions. This increase of 3.0 years indicates moderate aging trends. These patterns result from the complex interplay of birth rates, death rates, and migration flows that shape Washington's demographic landscape.
Economic and Social Policy Implications
Washington's demographic structure has profound implications for economic planning and social policy. With 67.8% of the population in prime productive years, the state's tax base and economic output depend heavily on this group's employment rates and productivity levels. The relatively moderate senior population share of 15.4% creates growing pressure on pension systems, Medicare, and social security programs.
Educational investment priorities must align with the youth population of 16.8%.The relatively small youth cohort suggests potential school consolidations and resource reallocation may be necessary. Furthermore, workforce development programs must anticipate the skills needed as 1,357,654young people enter the labor market over the coming decades, while simultaneously managing the transition of 1,247,147 seniors into retirement.
Washington Population Dynamics Summary
Washington's population pyramid and demographic indicators reveal a state facing demographic challenges with an aging population and narrowing base. The current demographic structure suggests Washington will need to focus on balanced policies addressing both youth development and senior care needs.
Looking ahead, these demographic trends will shape Washington's economic competitiveness, fiscal sustainability, and quality of life. Policy makers must consider these population dynamics when planning infrastructure investments, designing social programs, and developing economic strategies that leverage the state's demographic strengths while addressing its challenges.
About Washington Demographics Data
This Washington population pyramid and demographic analysis uses official US Census data to provide accurate, up-to-date population statistics. The interactive visualizations help researchers, policymakers, businesses, and students understand Washington's demographic structure and trends.