Spokane sparkles in all facets of life

Spokane’s demographics are evolving, as more individuals from diverse backgrounds choose to call this city home

SPOKANE

Spokane has blossomed into a vibrant tapestry of diversity, welcoming an ever-growing number of residents from a rich array of racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Spokane County has witnessed remarkable increases in populations identifying as Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, African American, and individuals of two or more races. Notably, the Hispanic and Latino population surged by an impressive 66% between 2010 and 2020, emerging as a vital force driving the region’s expanding diversity.

The city has embraced immigrants and refugees, who significantly enrich our community and bolster the local economy and workforce. As of 2019, these individuals made up 5.6% of the area’s population, showcasing a higher percentage of working-age residents compared to those born in the US.

By 2023, the foreign-born population in Spokane was estimated at 16,713, encompassing both naturalized citizens and non-US citizens. This influx has not only diversified the cultural fabric of Spokane but has also introduced a delightful variety of languages spoken throughout the city, with an increasing number of households communicating in languages other than English. While Spokane is becoming more diverse, non-Hispanic white residents still constitute a significant portion of the population, accounting for about 77% in 2020— a figure that surpasses the statewide average for Washington.

Though Spokane County’s overall racial diversity is on the rise, it remains comparatively less diverse than many areas across the state. The Hispanic or Latino population’s share in Spokane County, standing at 6.6% in 2020, continues to lag behind the national average of 18.7% and the Washington state average of 13.7%.

Spokane’s demographics are evolving, as more individuals from diverse backgrounds choose to call this city home. This increasing diversity is profoundly shaping various facets of life in Spokane, enriching our workforce, enhancing our cultural landscape, and inspiring dynamic community initiatives.

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