Is Lacey’s population growing faster than Olympia’s? New data shows largest cities in WA
Thurston County’s population grew by 3,600 between 2023 and 2024, the sixth-highest total of any county in Washington, a new estimate from the state’s Office of Financial Management says.
On June 28, the office released its annual estimates of each city in Washington’s population as of April 1, which it then uses to determine how the state’s budget will be allocated. Thurston County was the state’s 10th fastest-growing county by percentage, maintaining its rank as Washington’s sixth biggest county with a population of 307,000.
Thurston ranked just behind fifth place Clark County and fourth place Spokane County. King, Pierce and Snohomish counties took the top three spots in the state.
Lacey population beats Olympia
Lacey accounted for more of Thurston County’s growth than any other city. Lacey added 780 people, making it the 18th fastest-growing city in the state.
Overall, Lacey’s population hit 60,210, making it the biggest city in the county and the 23rd biggest in the state. Its population surpassed Olympia between 2021 and 2022, when it added over 1,000 residents due to annexation.
Olympia wasn’t far behind, ranking as the state’s 24th biggest city, with 57,450 residents. The state capital grew by 550 residents, the 32nd most in the state, amounting to a growth rate of 0.97%.
Tumwater, Yelm and the rest of Thurston County
Tumwater grew by 370 residents between 2023 and 2024, reaching a population of 27,470. Yelm added 110 people to reach 10,880.
Tenino, Bucoda and Rainier each saw their populations grow by less than 30, according to the OFM.
On the other hand, unincorporated parts of Thurston County added 1,755 residents, bringing the collective population in unincorporated areas to 145,735.
Migration, birth and death rates
Most of Thurston County’s 1.19% growth was caused by people moving to the area. Its net migration between 2023 and 2024 reached 3,444, according to OFM.
The county saw 156 more births than deaths over the past year, accounting for a smaller portion of its growth.
This story was originally published July 3, 2024 at 12:21 PM.