Other pages about the topic: April 1

Race and ethnicity information page

Washington tops 7.8 million residents in 2022

Washington’s population grew by 158,100 people since the 2020 decennial census April 1, 2020, largely due to migration. This means Washington grew to an estimated 7,864,400 people as of April 1, according to annual estimates that the Office of Financial Management prepared.

The state’s total population change was 97,400 since last year, which fell just below the last decade average of 98,200 per year. King County is the main contributor of that growth, adding 30,700 people this year, compared to an average of 33,800 people per year between 2010 and 2020.

Historical estimates of April 1 population and housing for the state, counties, and cities

Intercensal estimates

Intercensal estimates are estimates that are bracketed on both sides by decennial census or state-certified special census counts. As such, they yield a more consistent series than postcensal estimates which only reference the prior census point. (Last updated March 21, 2024)

April 1 official population estimates

RCW 43.62.030 states that the Office of Financial Management shall annually determine the April 1 populations of all cities and towns of the state. OFM population estimates for cities and towns are used in state program administration and in the allocation of selected state revenues (RCW 43.62.020). Population estimates for counties are used to allocate revenues as specified in RCW 36.13.100 and RCW 43.62.030.

Estimates of April 1 population by age, sex, race and Hispanic origin

The standards for data collection and reporting on race and ethnicity have changed

The Federal Office of Management and Budget has issued new standards for the reporting of federal race and ethnicity data through Statistical Policy Directive 15 (SPD15). See Race and Ethnicity Information page for more information.

Technical information