KEDA Releases Updated Kitsap County Economic Profile

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Theresa Mangrum
Communications & Events Manager
mangrum@kitsapeda.org 360-479-3712

Kitsap County Economy Shows Resilience and Growth Amid Shifting Regional Trends

SILVERDALE, WA — The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA), in partnership with Western Washington University’s Center for Economic and Business Research, has released its Kitsap County Profile, revealing a robust and distinct regional economy. While neighboring King County continues to see high costs, Kitsap County has maintained a competitive edge with a significantly lower cost of living—17.9% lower than King County. This profile highlights the fact that Kitsap’s robust economy continues as it remains anchored by a solid public sector, with civilian government positions accounting for 37.2% of the workforce. This stability is further bolstered by the presence of Naval Base Kitsap and billions in planned federal investments for the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.

The profile also provides an in-depth look at the county’s shifting demographics and housing landscape. Kitsap’s population grew by 1.35% over the last year, reaching approximately 288,960 residents. Housing remains a focal point of the analysis; while apartment rents rose 7.72% year-over-year to an average of $1,716, the median house resale price of $551,000 remains more affordable than King County’s $943,100, reinforcing Kitsap’s appeal as a regionally cost-effective exurban hub.

Beyond traditional industries, the report underscores the vital role of Tribal nations and the healthcare sector in sustaining local economic vitality. The Suquamish Tribe and Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, through their respective economic arms Port Madison Enterprises and Noo-Kayet Investments, are among the county's top twenty employers, providing thousands of jobs in hospitality, construction, and natural resources management. Additionally, the healthcare sector employs 13.5% of the workforce, with St. Michael Medical Center leading private employment. Educational attainment remains a high point for the region, as 95.3% of residents have completed high school, surpassing the state average and ensuring a highly skilled talent pool for Kitsap’s evolving industrial landscape.

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Media Contact: Theresa Mangrum mangrum@kitsapeda.org

Explore the Kitsap County Profile and other economic data here: https://kitsapeda.me/research