Zip Code 98251
WA · Population: 4,703
About Zip Code 98251
Zip code 98251 is located in Washington and is home to approximately 4,703 residents. It receives an overall grade of C (score: 48/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
Crime rates in this area are roughly in line with national averages.
The median household income here is $71,175, with home values near $382,900 and rents around $1,696/month. Affordability is moderate compared to the rest of the country.
Educational attainment is below the national average, with 14.6% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
The unemployment rate of 7.1% is above the national average, indicating a weaker local job market.
Scores are percentile-based: a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that dimension. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau (ACS 5-year estimates) and the FBI Uniform Crime Report.
Demographics & Economics
Score Breakdown
| Dimension | Score | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | 46 | C | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 51 | C+ | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 50 | C+ | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 47 | C | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 48 | C | Weighted average |
Methodology
All scores are percentile-based (0–100): a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that metric. Safety uses FBI Uniform Crime Report state-level data (Phase 2 will add zip-level granularity). Economic and demographic data is from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates (2022).