Community Profiles

Poulsbo

Poulsbo

Located on beautiful Liberty Bay and known as “Little Norway on the Fjord”, this enchanting Norwegian heritage town (population 11,180), has blossomed into a visitor destination filled with recreation, shopping, and dining opportunities. With its stunning water and mountain views Poulsbo is as rich in natural beauty as it is in authentic Scandinavian charm. Poulsbo’s historic downtown captivates visitors with its wonderful old murals, world famous bakeries, art galleries, boutiques and restaurants and beautiful waterfront park and boardwalk along Liberty Bay. Poulsbo celebrates it's Nordic heritage with the annual Viking Fest, Jule Fest and Tree Lighting celebrations. Poulsbo also hosts an annual Arts Festival, and 3rd of July Celebration over Liberty Bay.

Christmas window display in Poulsbo

Poulsbo’s charm, and natural beauty appeal to many visitors who, tempted by the good schools, distinct neighborhoods, and sense of community, soon become residents. Poulsbo’s leaders are progressive and forward-looking and are conscientiously working to balance the needs of a growing 21st century city while maintaining the Scandinavian heritage that has earned Poulsbo the nickname “Little Norway”.

Population Demographics

As of 2025 the population of Poulsbo is 12,964. The population is expected to grow to 13,323 by 2030 - a growth rate of 0.55%.

The median age of Poulsbo residents is 44.

The diversity index of Poulsbo is 52.4, meaning that there is a 52% chance that any two people selected out of 100 residents will be of different race or ethnicity from one another.

Housing and Income

The average household income in Poulsbo is $129,274 and projected to be $145,498 in 2030. Per capita income is $52,443, projected to be $58,833 in 2030. 6.71% of households – 870 – have an income of $200,000 or higher. Average net worth is $1,611,253 and the average disposable income is $100,985.

There are 5,535 housing units in Poulsbo; 3,520 are owner-occupied, 1,722 are rented, and 293 are vacant. The average home value is $684,545, with 1,179 homes built in 2010 or later, and 154 built in 1939 or earlier.

Business and Workforce

There are 835 businesses in Poulsbo, employing 7,668 workers and pulling from a labor force of 5,483 age 16 and above. 657 workers commute into Poulsbo from outside the county or state. Key industries for the area include:

4,826 residents both live and work in/around Poulsbo. The average travel time is 26.3 minutes. 4.6% people have a commute of less than 5 minutes while 5.68% commute 90 minutes or more each way. Of commuters, 3,205 drive alone, 637 carpool, and 325 take public transportation. 135 use other modes of transport such as motorcycle, bicycle, walking, etc. 1,181 residents work from home.

2,120 members of the workforce hold a high school diploma or GED. 724 have associates degrees, 2,835 have bachelor’s degrees, and 1,994 hold a graduate or professional degree.