Columbia Heights Dc Washington, Washington, DC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,203
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$130,395/yr
4.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,683
0.6% year-over-year change

Columbia Heights DC Washington population

How many people live in Columbia Heights DC Washington

Columbia Heights DC Washington is home to 20,203 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Columbia Heights DC Washington locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
20,203
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
9,923
Female
50.9%
10,280
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,923 49.1% -1.3%
Female 10,280 50.9% 2.2%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Columbia Heights DC Washington is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.5% are children under 15, then 7.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 52.7% of the population, while another 17.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 9.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
34
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.5%
15 to 24
7.5%
25 to 44
52.7%
45 to 64
17.1%
Over 65
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,723 13.5% -1.1%
15 to 24 1,510 7.5% -0.1%
25 to 44 10,648 52.7% 1.4%
45 to 64 3,457 17.1% -2.3%
Over 65 1,865 9.2% 3.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Columbia Heights DC Washington, 76.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49.7% of locals are Caucasian, 18% are African American and 6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 14.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.1%
Non-citizens
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,389 76.2% -1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,239 11.1% -0.2%
Non-citizens 2,576 12.8% 12.3%
Racial breakdown
White
49.7%
Black or African American
18%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
14.7%
Other
11.1%
Value Percent
White 10,043 49.7%
Black or African American 3,636 18%
American Indian and Alaska Native 80 0.4%
Asian 1,221 6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 11 0%
Two or more races 2,963 14.7%
Other 2,249 11.1%

Households in Columbia Heights DC Washington

A peek inside Columbia Heights DC Washington households

Columbia Heights DC Washington has 10,592 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 31.8% are families, while the remaining 68.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
10,592
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,227
Family households
3,365
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,227 68.2% -0.3%
Family households 3,365 31.8% 0.2%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Columbia Heights DC Washington

The housing landscape of Columbia Heights DC Washington

Columbia Heights DC Washington's housing consists of 11,683 units, with 2.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 16.1% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
11,683
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 261 2.2%
1 unit, attached 1,882 16.1%
2 units 648 5.6%
3 or 4 units 826 7.1%
5 to 9 units 871 7.5%
10 to 19 units 963 8.2%
20 to 49 units 1,926 16.5%
50 or more units 4,305 36.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
93
72.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbia Heights DC Washington

In Columbia Heights DC Washington, the median construction year is 1938. About 53.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,221 53.2% 1.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 657 5.6% -4.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 878 7.5% 0.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 643 5.5% 4.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 647 5.5% -10.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 316 2.7% -25.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 224 1.9% -12.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 821 7% -0.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,183 10.1% 13.8%
Built in 2020 or later 93 0.8% 72.2%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Columbia Heights DC Washington occupancy rates

Out of the 10,592 occupied housing units in Columbia Heights DC Washington, 37.5% are owner-occupied, while 62.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
10,592
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,622
Owner occupied
3,970
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,622 62.5% -1.5%
Owner occupied 3,970 37.5% 2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
9.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Columbia Heights DC Washington housing costs

Housing costs in Columbia Heights DC Washington come to a median of $2,246 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,067.

Median housing costs per month
$2,246/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Columbia Heights DC Washington
$2,067/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Columbia Heights DC Washington

Columbia Heights DC Washington education at a glance

About 11.7% of the population in Columbia Heights DC Washington went to high school, while 6.9% pursued college studies. Another 2.3% earned an associate degree and 33.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 41.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 702 4.1% 9.9%
High school diploma 2,022 11.7% 2.7%
College diploma 1,193 6.9% -0.6%
Associate degree 390 2.3% 30.0%
Bachelor's degree 5,747 33.4% 0.3%
Graduate degree 7,177 41.6% -0.9%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Columbia Heights DC Washington

How much people earn in Columbia Heights DC Washington

The average annual household income in Columbia Heights DC Washington was $171,157 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $130,395, reflecting a +4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Columbia Heights DC Washington
$171,157/year
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbia Heights DC Washington
$130,395/year
4.0% year-over-year change

Columbia Heights DC Washington income by age

In Columbia Heights DC Washington, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $141,482. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $154,281 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $75,834, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $69,793 in earnings. Overall, 88.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $75,834 -6.6%
25 - 44 $141,482 7.7%
45 - 64 $154,281 -8.9%
Over 65 $69,793 10.0%
Above poverty level
17,384
Below poverty level
2,357
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,384 88.1% -0.4%
Below poverty level 2,357 11.9% 10.3%

Employment in Columbia Heights DC Washington

Workforce and job types in Columbia Heights DC Washington

96.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 3.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.4% run their own businesses, 48% are employed by private companies, and 21.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
13,341
Blue collar
501
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,341 96.4% 1.0%
Blue collar 501 3.6% -11.3%
Employer type
Self employees
6.4%
Private companies
48%
Governmental workers
21.9%
Not for profit companies
23.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 881 6.4% -2.9%
Private companies 6,639 48% -1.4%
Governmental workers 3,033 21.9% 1.9%
Not for profit companies 3,289 23.8% 4.0%

Transportation in Columbia Heights DC Washington

How people get around in Columbia Heights DC Washington

In Columbia Heights DC Washington, the average commute time is 6 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 40.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 24.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
6 min
-14.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,747 40.1% 0.3%
Taxicab 94 1.4% 38.2%
Bus or trolleybus 1,479 21.6% -14.1%
Railroad 14 0.2% 40.0%
Motorcycle 16 0.2% -33.3%
Bicycle 798 11.6% -2.3%
Walk 1,706 24.9% -8.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Columbia Heights DC Washington by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
20009 50,150 29,210 $146,664 $191,961
20010 31,808 14,376 $114,126 $174,847

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FAQs about Columbia Heights DC Washington demographics 

What is the total population of Columbia Heights DC Washington?

Columbia Heights DC Washington has a total population of 20,203 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbia Heights DC Washington?

The gender ratio in Columbia Heights DC Washington is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (9,923 residents)
  • 50.9% females (10,280 residents)

What is the median age in Columbia Heights DC Washington?

The median age in Columbia Heights DC Washington is 34.

What is the age distribution of the population in Columbia Heights DC Washington?

The age distribution in Columbia Heights DC Washington is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.5% (2,723 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.5% (1,510 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 52.7% (10,648 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.1% (3,457 residents)
  • Over 65: 9.2% (1,865 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia Heights DC Washington?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia Heights DC Washington is as follows:
  • White: 49.7% (10,043 residents)
  • Black or African American: 18% (3,636 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (80 residents)
  • Asian: 6% (1,221 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (11 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.7% (2,963 residents)
  • Other: 11.1% (2,249 residents)

What percentage of the population in Columbia Heights DC Washington are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.2% of the population in Columbia Heights DC Washington.

How many housing units are there in Columbia Heights DC Washington?

There are 11,683 housing units in Columbia Heights DC Washington, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Columbia Heights DC Washington and what is the average household size?

Columbia Heights DC Washington has a total of 10,592 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbia Heights DC Washington?

Columbia Heights DC Washington has a median household income of $130,395, representing a +4.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Columbia Heights DC Washington?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 96.4% (13,341 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 3.6% (501 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.4% (881 residents)
  • Private companies: 48% (6,639 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.9% (3,033 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 23.8% (3,289 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025