The 30 Richest Zip Codes in Washington State: Elite Neighborhoods
Washington State stands as one of the most economically diverse regions in the United States, with significant wealth concentrated in specific geographic areas throughout the state.
The distribution of affluent communities creates a clear pattern across western Washington, particularly in the greater Seattle metropolitan area where technology companies, established industries, and proximity to urban centers drive higher household incomes.
The state’s wealthiest zip codes span from exclusive waterfront communities like Medina to thriving suburban areas in Bellevue, Redmond, and Sammamish, each offering distinct characteristics that attract high-income residents.
These areas reflect broader economic trends influenced by the technology sector, real estate values, educational institutions, and demographic shifts that continue to shape Washington’s most prosperous neighborhoods.
Here are the 30 richest zip codes in Washington:
1. 98039 – Medina
ZIP code 98039 in Medina consistently ranks as Washington state’s most expensive area. This exclusive community sits east of Seattle across Lake Washington.
The median home value in 98039 reaches $4 million. This makes it not only the priciest ZIP code in Washington but also ranks among the top ten most expensive nationally.
Medina attracts wealthy residents with its waterfront properties and proximity to Seattle. The average household income in this ZIP code is $459,352, making it the richest in the state.
The area is part of what locals call Washington’s Gold Coast. Properties here command premium prices due to their Lake Washington locations and luxury amenities.
King County dominates Washington’s expensive real estate market, with Medina leading this trend. The ZIP code represents the pinnacle of luxury living in the Pacific Northwest.
2. 98074 – Sammamish
Sammamish’s 98074 zip code ranks among Washington’s wealthiest areas with an average household income of $319,000. The community consistently appears on lists of the state’s most expensive zip codes.
This East King County location sits east of Seattle in the Puget Sound region. Sammamish currently holds the third position among Washington’s wealthiest zip codes, trailing only Medina and Mercer Island.
The area demonstrates King County’s dominance in Washington’s luxury real estate market. Sammamish has two zip codes that rank in the top 10 priciest areas in the state.
High median home prices and substantial average net worth contribute to Sammamish’s wealthy status. The zip code attracts affluent residents who value its location and amenities.
Sammamish represents the concentration of wealth in communities east of Seattle, where the highest income zip codes are located.
3. 98077 – Woodinville
Woodinville ranks as the third wealthiest zip code in Washington state. The area is located in King County and covers 17.288 square miles.
The median home value in 98077 reaches $1,050,151. This represents 119.7% above the typical home value for Washington state.
Household income levels contribute significantly to this zip code’s ranking. The area contains several communities including Woodinville, Maltby, North Creek, and Cottage Lake.
Home values have experienced notable growth in recent years. The one-year rent change shows an increase of 13.1%.
The zip code serves a population of 14,629 residents. King County’s strong economy and proximity to major employment centers support the area’s high property values and income levels.
4. 98112 – Seattle (Madison Park)
ZIP code 98112 encompasses the Madison Park neighborhood in Seattle. This area ranks among Washington state’s wealthiest residential districts.
The median household income reaches $153,204. The mean income climbs significantly higher to $256,059, indicating substantial wealth concentration in the area.
Madison Park sits on Seattle’s eastern shore along Lake Washington. The neighborhood features waterfront properties and established residential streets.
This ZIP code consistently appears on lists of Washington’s highest-income areas. The substantial gap between median and mean income reflects the presence of very high earners alongside affluent middle-class residents.
The area includes both historic homes and modern developments. Lake Washington access contributes to the neighborhood’s desirability and property values.
Madison Park represents one of Seattle’s most economically successful residential areas.
5. 98004 – Bellevue (East Bellevue)
ZIP code 98004 encompasses the eastern portion of Bellevue and ranks among Washington’s most expensive residential areas. The median home sale value reaches $1,498,000, placing it fourth in the state for property values.
This ZIP code includes several affluent communities like Hunts Point, Yarrow Point, Clyde Hill, and Ashwood. These neighborhoods feature luxury homes with waterfront access and expansive properties.
The area sits just east of Medina, contributing to its prime location in the Seattle metropolitan region. Residents benefit from proximity to major tech companies and downtown Seattle while maintaining a suburban atmosphere.
East Bellevue attracts wealthy professionals and executives seeking upscale housing options. The ZIP code consistently appears in rankings of Washington’s most expensive areas for real estate transactions.
6. 98105 – Seattle (University District)
ZIP code 98105 ranks as the third most expensive area in Seattle. This district encompasses much of the University of Washington campus, including Husky Stadium.
The median home value reaches approximately $1.145 million. Properties along Lake Washington command particularly high prices within this zone.
Per capita income stands at $58,469 in this area. Median household income reaches $75,214, while family median income climbs to $212,222.
The ZIP code covers several upscale neighborhoods. These include the University District, University Heights, and Laurelhurst areas.
This densely populated urban zone attracts primarily younger, educated residents. The population skews white and consists largely of single individuals.
Housing costs exceed the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro average. The area offers limited options for budget-conscious homebuyers seeking affordable properties.
7. 98033 – Kirkland
Kirkland’s 98033 zip code ranks among Washington’s wealthiest areas with significant household wealth. The median household income reaches $258,223 according to recent census data.
Home values in this zip code reflect the area’s affluent status. The typical home value sits at $1,202,270, making it one of the most expensive residential markets in the state.
This upscale urban community has a population of approximately 40,662 residents. The demographic composition is primarily white and evenly split between singles and married couples.
The zip code covers an upscale portion of Kirkland in King County. At $564,900, the average home value exceeds the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area average, indicating strong real estate demand in this location.
8. 98006 – Bellevue (West Bellevue)
The 98006 zip code covers West Bellevue, one of Washington’s most affluent areas. This zip code consistently ranks among the state’s wealthiest communities.
According to recent data, the median household income in 98006 reaches $144,247. The average household income climbs significantly higher to $254,916.
Over 66% of households in this zip code earn more than $100,000 annually. The area serves approximately 40,770 residents who benefit from Bellevue’s strong economy.
West Bellevue attracts high-earning professionals working in technology and finance. The zip code’s proximity to major employers like Microsoft and Amazon contributes to its elevated income levels.
The community features upscale neighborhoods with premium housing stock. Residents enjoy access to top-rated schools and extensive recreational amenities throughout the greater Bellevue area.
9. 98052 – Redmond
The 98052 zip code covers Redmond, Washington, with 77,324 residents. This area represents one of the state’s most affluent communities.
The median household income reaches $158,457. Families in this zip code earn a median income of $189,899.
Per capita income stands at $82,929. These figures place 98052 among Washington’s wealthiest zip codes.
Homeownership rates in this area are 48.3%. The community benefits from its proximity to major technology companies.
Redmond serves as home to Microsoft’s headquarters. This corporate presence contributes significantly to the area’s high income levels and economic stability.
10. 98075 – Sammamish (Issaquah Highlands)
The 98075 zip code in Sammamish represents one of Washington’s most affluent communities. This area recorded an average income of $178,697 according to recent IRS data.
Home values in this zip code reach impressive levels. The typical home value stands at approximately $1.56 million, with some reports showing recent price increases of nearly 29%.
Sammamish consistently ranks among the state’s wealthiest zip codes. The city contains 22,258 households, making it the largest wealthy community by population among Washington’s top 50 wealthiest cities.
This King County location benefits from its proximity to major tech centers. The area attracts high-income professionals working in the greater Seattle metropolitan region.
The 98075 zip code ranked 90th nationally for expensive homes with a median price of $1.87 million.
11. 98040 – Kirkland (Bridle Trails)
The 98040 ZIP code encompasses the prestigious Bridle Trails neighborhood in Kirkland. This equestrian community ranks among Washington’s most exclusive residential areas.
Properties in Bridle Trails typically feature large lots exceeding three-quarters of an acre. Many homes are specifically designed to accommodate horse ownership and equestrian activities.
The neighborhood attracts affluent residents seeking a rural lifestyle within proximity to urban amenities. Bridle Trails offers a tranquil environment while maintaining convenient access to the greater Seattle metropolitan area.
Median household income in Bridle Trails significantly exceeds both Kirkland and national averages. The 95th percentile household income reaches $250,000, demonstrating the area’s concentration of high earners.
Real estate values reflect the neighborhood’s desirability and exclusivity. The combination of large properties, equestrian facilities, and prime location contributes to sustained demand among wealthy buyers.
12. 98011 – Bothell
The 98011 zip code covers portions of Bothell, a city located in King and Snohomish counties. This area has established itself as one of Washington’s more affluent communities.
The zip code had approximately 30,787 residents according to recent census data. It ranks among the top 100 zip codes in Washington state by population size.
Bothell’s 98011 area benefits from its proximity to major tech employers in the Seattle metropolitan region. Many residents work in technology, healthcare, and professional services sectors.
The median household income in this zip code exceeds the state average. Housing values reflect the area’s desirability and economic strength.
Bothell offers a suburban lifestyle with access to parks, recreational facilities, and quality schools. The University of Washington Bothell campus contributes to the area’s educational and economic profile.
13. 98115 – Seattle (Lake City)
The 98115 zip code encompasses several affluent neighborhoods in north Seattle. This area includes Roosevelt, Wedgwood, and Maple Leaf communities.
The western portions of this zip code cover the desirable Green Lake area. Eastern sections extend to the shores of Lake Washington, creating premium waterfront access.
According to recent census data, the median household income in 98115 reaches $141,013. The per capita income stands at $80,879, reflecting the area’s economic prosperity.
Family median income in this zip code climbs to $202,817. These figures place 98115 among Seattle’s higher-income residential areas.
The zip code also includes Matthews Beach Park in the northeast section. This location provides residents with recreational amenities and lake access.
Real estate values in 98115 remain consistently high due to its proximity to both urban amenities and natural features.
14. 98027 – Duvall
Duvall represents one of Washington’s most affluent small communities. This zip code encompasses a rural city located in King County, approximately 25 miles northeast of Seattle.
The median household income in 98027 reaches well into six figures. Residents benefit from proximity to major tech employment centers while maintaining a rural lifestyle.
Duvall’s wealth stems largely from its appeal to high-earning professionals. Many residents commute to Seattle, Bellevue, and Redmond for work in technology and finance sectors.
The area features large properties and custom homes on substantial acreage. Housing values reflect the desirable combination of rural setting and urban accessibility.
This zip code maintains low population density compared to urban areas. The community emphasizes preservation of agricultural heritage while attracting affluent families seeking space and privacy.
15. 98053 – Redmond (Willows)
The 98053 zip code encompasses the Willows neighborhood in Redmond, Washington. This affluent suburban area maintains a median household income of $96,028.
The population consists primarily of white residents and married couples. The community reflects typical upscale suburban demographics found throughout the greater Seattle metropolitan area.
Housing values in 98053 average $572,600, which exceeds the regional median for the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area. The elevated home prices align with the area’s higher income levels.
Redmond’s tech industry presence contributes to the neighborhood’s wealth concentration. Major employers in the city include Microsoft and other technology companies.
The Willows area offers suburban amenities while maintaining proximity to Seattle’s urban center. Residents benefit from Redmond’s highly rated school districts and recreational facilities.
16. 98109 – Seattle (South Lake Union)
The 98109 zip code encompasses Seattle’s South Lake Union neighborhood, a rapidly transformed area known for its tech industry presence. This district houses major corporate headquarters and modern residential developments.
Amazon’s main campus dominates much of the neighborhood, contributing significantly to the area’s economic profile. The company’s expansion has attracted thousands of high-paying tech workers to the region.
South Lake Union features a mix of luxury condominiums, upscale apartments, and converted warehouse spaces. The neighborhood’s proximity to downtown Seattle and waterfront access adds to its appeal among affluent residents.
The area includes portions of the Seattle Center and lies adjacent to Lake Union itself. Median household incomes reflect the concentration of technology professionals and other well-compensated workers who live in this central Seattle location.
17. 98045 – Kirkland (Totem Lake)
ZIP code 98045 encompasses the Totem Lake area of Kirkland, Washington. This neighborhood sits in the northern part of Kirkland, positioned between Lake Washington and the Sammamish River.
The area features a mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial development. Totem Lake serves as a retail and business hub for the surrounding communities.
Housing in 98045 includes single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. The neighborhood attracts residents who work in nearby Bellevue, Redmond, and Seattle due to its convenient location.
The median household income in the Totem Lake area is approximately $72,124. This income level places the area near the national average for household earnings.
Totem Lake Mall provides shopping and dining options for residents. The neighborhood also offers parks and recreational facilities along the waterfront areas.
18. 98021 – Kenmore
Kenmore’s 98021 zip code maintains a median household income of $133,772. This places the area in the 96th percentile nationally for household income levels.
The zip code significantly outperforms the national median income. Only 3% of zip codes across the United States report higher median household incomes.
Education levels correlate strongly with the area’s income statistics. Approximately 57% of adults in 98021 hold bachelor’s degrees or higher, compared to 31% nationwide.
The per-capita income for this zip code reaches $71,846. This figure reflects individual earning capacity within the community.
Kenmore’s economic profile demonstrates consistent wealth accumulation among residents. The combination of high educational attainment and substantial household incomes establishes 98021 as a prosperous Washington zip code.
19. 98034 – Kirkland (Houghton)
The 98034 zip code in Kirkland’s Houghton neighborhood demonstrates solid income levels within Washington State’s wealthy communities. The per-capita income for this area reaches $71,095.
This zip code shows lower per-capita income compared to neighboring affluent areas. It falls behind 98033 at $109,402, 98052 at $89,431, and 98072 at $82,689.
Average earnings in 98034 total $61,610 across all residents. Men earn an average of $75,306 while women earn $52,240, creating a 30.6% income gap.
The Houghton area benefits from its location within Kirkland, a city known for its lakefront properties and proximity to major tech employers. This zip code attracts professionals working in the greater Seattle metropolitan area.
20. 98119 – Seattle (Queen Anne)
The 98119 zip code encompasses Queen Anne, one of Seattle’s most prestigious neighborhoods. This area sits northwest of downtown Seattle on the city’s highest-named hill at 439 feet.
Queen Anne maintains a median household income of $96,768 according to recent data. The neighborhood ranks among Seattle’s wealthiest residential areas, attracting professionals and families seeking urban convenience.
Home values in 98119 reflect the area’s desirability, with median home prices reaching $937,500. The zip code benefits from its proximity to downtown Seattle and major employment centers.
Queen Anne offers residents easy access to cultural attractions like Seattle Center and the Space Needle. The neighborhood features a mix of historic homes, modern condominiums, and upscale apartments.
The area’s elevated location provides many properties with views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and downtown Seattle’s skyline.
21. 98102 – Seattle (Capitol Hill)
The 98102 zip code encompasses Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, one of the city’s most vibrant urban districts. This area is officially designated as Seattle, WA for mailing purposes.
Capitol Hill attracts young professionals and creative individuals drawn to its walkable streets and cultural amenities. The neighborhood features a mix of historic homes, modern condos, and apartment buildings.
Residents benefit from proximity to downtown Seattle and numerous local businesses. The area includes popular restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment venues that contribute to its desirable location.
The zip code’s central location provides easy access to major employment centers throughout the Seattle metropolitan area. Public transportation options connect Capitol Hill to other parts of the city.
Housing costs in 98102 reflect the neighborhood’s urban amenities and convenient location within Seattle proper.
22. 98059 – Renton (Cedar River)
The 98059 zip code covers the East Renton Highlands area in King County. This residential community sits in the Cedar River region southeast of Seattle.
Households in 98059 show strong earning power. About 34.7% of households earn over $200,000 annually, placing residents in higher income brackets.
The median home value reaches $809,800 in this zip code. Property values reflect the area’s desirable location and proximity to major employment centers.
Renton’s Cedar River area attracts families seeking suburban living with urban access. The zip code maintains a population of approximately 41,602 residents according to recent data.
This King County location benefits from Washington’s robust economy. Tech industry growth in the greater Seattle region supports higher household incomes throughout the area.
23. 98028 – Carnation
Carnation sits in the scenic Snoqualmie Valley, approximately 30 miles east of Seattle. This rural community maintains its small-town character while attracting affluent residents seeking a quieter lifestyle.
The zip code 98028 encompasses the city of Carnation and surrounding rural areas. According to recent data, the area has a population of 5,901 residents.
Carnation’s proximity to major tech employment centers contributes to its wealth accumulation. Many residents commute to Seattle and Bellevue for high-paying jobs while enjoying rural living.
The community features large properties and custom homes that appeal to high-income families. Agricultural land and equestrian properties are common throughout the area.
Carnation offers excellent schools and low crime rates. The city hosts the annual Carnation 4th of July Festival, one of Washington’s oldest Independence Day celebrations.
24. 98208 – Everett (South Everett)
The 98208 zip code encompasses the South Everett area in Snohomish County. This residential community sits within the greater Everett metropolitan region.
The area includes portions of Seattle Hill-Silver Firs neighborhoods. These communities offer suburban living with access to urban amenities.
South Everett provides housing options for families and working professionals. The neighborhood maintains a mix of single-family homes and multi-family developments.
The zip code serves approximately 57,739 residents based on recent data. Population density remains moderate compared to urban Seattle areas.
Transportation access includes proximity to Interstate 5 and regional transit options. Residents can commute to Seattle, Bellevue, and other Puget Sound employment centers.
The area features local parks and recreational facilities. Educational services include access to Everett Public Schools and nearby higher education institutions.
Housing costs in 98208 generally fall below King County averages while maintaining suburban amenities.
25. 98092 – Woodinville
Woodinville consistently ranks among Washington’s most affluent communities. The city’s median household income significantly exceeds both state and national averages.
This zip code appears regularly on lists of Washington’s wealthiest areas. The community maintains its status as one of the top earners in the region.
Located east of Seattle, Woodinville joins other high-income areas in the Puget Sound region. The city benefits from its proximity to major employment centers while offering a more suburban lifestyle.
Woodinville’s economic profile reflects the broader trend of eastern Seattle suburbs commanding higher incomes. The area attracts residents seeking upscale living within commuting distance of urban job markets.
The zip code’s consistent appearance in wealth rankings demonstrates sustained economic prosperity. Residents enjoy above-average earnings that contribute to the community’s overall affluent character.
26. 98031 – Kenmore (Woodinville)
The 98031 zip code covers parts of Kenmore and the greater Woodinville area in King County. This region benefits from its proximity to both Seattle and the thriving tech corridor.
Woodinville consistently ranks among Washington’s wealthiest communities. The area appears regularly on lists of the state’s most affluent zip codes.
Median household income in this zip code exceeds both state and national averages significantly. The community attracts high-earning professionals who work in nearby technology and business centers.
The 98031 area features upscale residential neighborhoods with well-maintained properties. Many residents commute to Seattle, Bellevue, or Redmond for work while enjoying a more suburban lifestyle.
Local amenities include quality schools, parks, and proximity to wineries and recreational areas. The combination of income levels and location makes this zip code attractive to affluent families.
27. 98007 – Bellevue (Newport)
The 98007 zip code covers the Newport area of Bellevue, located in the prestigious Eastside region of King County. This zip code represents one of Washington’s wealthier residential areas.
Newport sits within Bellevue’s broader affluent community. The area benefits from proximity to major technology companies and Seattle’s business district.
The 98007 zip code has a population of approximately 26,517 residents. This makes it a substantial residential community within the larger Bellevue metropolitan area.
Like other Eastside zip codes, 98007 attracts high-income professionals working in technology, finance, and other lucrative industries. The area offers upscale housing options and well-regarded schools.
Bellevue’s multiple zip codes consistently rank among Washington’s wealthiest areas. The 98007 zip code contributes to this reputation as part of the city’s overall economic success.
28. 98204 – Everett (Central Everett)
The 98204 zip code serves central Everett in Snohomish County. This densely populated urban area houses approximately 41,337 residents.
The median household income stands at $63,738, with per capita income reaching $33,948. Family median income measures $70,167 in this diverse community.
Housing costs remain relatively moderate compared to other Seattle metro areas. The average home price sits around $221,900, making it accessible for middle-income families.
This zip code features a racially diverse population with many single residents. The area maintains typical characteristics of urban Everett neighborhoods.
The community sits within the broader Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan region. Income levels fall below the national average but reflect the economic diversity of central Everett.
Central Everett’s 98204 area represents a working-class neighborhood with moderate housing costs and steady employment opportunities in the region.
29. 98177 – Seattle (West Seattle)
ZIP code 98177 represents the highest income area within Seattle proper. This zone covers the Blue Ridge, Broadview, The Highlands, and Richmond Beach neighborhoods.
The area sits along elevated terrain overlooking Puget Sound. Residents enjoy scenic water views and proximity to both urban amenities and natural spaces.
These neighborhoods feature established single-family homes and well-maintained streets. The location provides easy access to downtown Seattle while maintaining a quieter residential atmosphere.
Richmond Beach offers waterfront access and community parks. The Highlands and Blue Ridge areas contain some of Seattle’s more expensive residential properties.
The ZIP code’s median household income places it among Washington’s wealthier areas. Property values reflect the desirable location and neighborhood characteristics.
Transit connections link residents to central Seattle and surrounding areas. Local schools and community facilities serve the established residential population.
30. 98022 – Kenmore (Northshore)
ZIP code 98022 encompasses the Kenmore area in the Northshore region of King County. This community sits along the northern shore of Lake Washington, providing residents with waterfront access and scenic views.
The area features a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. Many properties offer lake proximity, contributing to higher property values in the region.
Kenmore’s location provides convenient access to both Seattle and the Eastside employment centers. The community maintains a suburban character while remaining connected to major metropolitan areas.
Residents benefit from well-regarded school districts and recreational opportunities. The nearby Burke-Gilman Trail and Kenmore Air Harbor add to the area’s appeal for families and professionals.
The ZIP code’s economic profile reflects the broader King County trend of higher incomes. This positions it among Washington’s more affluent residential areas.
Factors Influencing Wealth in Washington Zip Codes
Washington’s wealthiest zip codes concentrate in areas with strong tech employment, top-rated school districts, and premium real estate markets that drive property values above $2 million.
Local Economy and Employment
Technology sector dominance shapes wealth distribution across Washington’s richest zip codes. Major employers like Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing create high-paying jobs that fuel income growth in surrounding communities.
Seattle’s tech boom generates substantial wealth for employees holding stock options and executive positions. These workers often relocate to nearby affluent areas like Medina, Sammamish, and Bellevue.
The Eastside tech corridor particularly benefits from this employment concentration. Zip code 98039 in Medina shows average household income of $459,352, largely driven by tech executives and senior professionals.
Financial services and consulting firms also contribute significantly to regional wealth. These industries cluster in urban centers but residents frequently choose suburban locations for their homes.
Entrepreneurship plays a key role as successful business founders establish residences in premium zip codes. The region’s startup ecosystem continues producing new wealth through exits and IPOs.
Education and School Quality
School district ratings directly correlate with property values and resident income levels in Washington’s wealthiest areas. Families with substantial resources prioritize access to top-performing schools.
Bellevue School District serves multiple affluent zip codes and consistently ranks among the state’s best. High test scores and college preparation programs attract educated, high-earning families.
The Issaquah School District covers parts of Sammamish and maintains excellent academic standards. Parents often relocate specifically to access these educational opportunities for their children.
Private school access also influences residential choices. Wealthy families select areas with proximity to prestigious private institutions, driving up local real estate demand.
Educational attainment levels in these communities typically exceed state averages. Higher education degrees correlate with increased earning potential and wealth accumulation.
Real Estate and Housing Market
Limited housing supply in desirable areas creates upward pressure on property values. Medina’s median home price reaches $4.2 million due to restricted inventory and high demand.
Mercer Island maintains median prices around $2.3 million, while Bellevue’s 98004 zip code averages $1.95 million. These price points naturally filter residents by income level.
Waterfront and view properties command premium prices throughout the region. Lake Washington, Puget Sound, and mountain views significantly increase property values.
Zoning restrictions preserve neighborhood character but limit new construction. This scarcity drives existing home values higher and maintains exclusivity.
Investment appreciation creates wealth cycles as property values increase over time. Long-term residents benefit from substantial equity gains that compound their net worth.
Demographic Trends in Affluent Washington Communities
Washington’s wealthiest zip codes exhibit distinct demographic patterns that set them apart from state averages. These communities show concentrated population growth in suburban areas, higher median ages, and significant income clustering among top earners.
Population Growth and Density
The richest zip codes in Washington have experienced steady population growth over the past decade. Areas like Sammamish (98074, 98075) represent the largest wealthy communities by population, with Sammamish containing 22,258 households.
Medina’s 98039 zip code maintains lower population density despite being the wealthiest area. This exclusive community prioritizes larger lot sizes and privacy over dense development.
Key Growth Patterns:
- Eastside communities show 15-25% population increases since 2010
- Density ranges from 500-2,000 people per square mile
- New construction focuses on luxury single-family homes
Woodinville and other affluent areas attract families seeking suburban amenities while maintaining proximity to Seattle employment centers. These communities balance growth with zoning restrictions that preserve their exclusive character.
Age and Household Composition
Wealthy Washington zip codes skew toward older demographics compared to state averages. The median age in these areas typically ranges from 42-48 years, reflecting established professionals and empty nesters.
Household sizes average 2.3-2.8 people, indicating fewer large families. Many residents are dual-income professionals without children or couples whose children have reached adulthood.
Demographic Breakdown:
- 35-54 age group: 28-35% of population
- 55+ age group: 25-32% of population
- Married couples: 70-80% of households
Educational attainment runs exceptionally high, with 65-85% of adults holding bachelor’s degrees or higher. Graduate degrees are particularly common in technology and finance sectors.
Income Distribution
The wealthiest zip codes show extreme income concentration at the top end. Medina’s 98039 leads with an average household income of $459,352, while Seattle’s 98164 and Sammamish’s zip codes report median household incomes exceeding $250,001.
Income sources vary significantly across these communities. Technology executives, healthcare professionals, and finance workers dominate the highest-earning segments.
Income Characteristics:
- Top 10% of earners: $500,000+ annually
- Median range: $180,000-$280,000
- Primary income sources: Tech (45%), Healthcare (20%), Finance (15%)
These communities maintain income stability through diversified professional sectors. Real estate values reflect this income concentration, with median home prices ranging from $1.2 million to $4 million depending on the specific zip code.
