Tri-Cities Workforce
The Tri-Cities workforce is diverse, skilled, and steadily growing. The region benefits from a robust labor market with a mix of professionals in sectors such as technology, energy, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and education.
With a significant number of employees tied to Hanford Site cleanup operations and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), there is a strong presence of science, engineering, and technology talent. Additionally, the area is known for its agricultural expertise, particularly in wine production, food processing, and agribusiness.
The Tri-Cities is also supported by educational institutions like Washington State University Tri-Cities, Heritage University, and Columbia Basin College, which provide a steady stream of qualified graduates.
Overall, the Tri-Cities workforce is a blend of highly educated professionals and skilled trade workers, offering a wide range of talent for businesses and industries looking to grow in the region.
Workforce Data
Size of Household | 2022 Estimate |
1 Person | 21.39% |
2 Person | 33.65% |
3 Person | 16.03% |
4 Person | 14.57% |
5 Person | 8.01% |
6+ Person | 3.91% |
2000 Census | 2010 Census | 2020 Census | 2024 Estimate |
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Tri-Cities, Kennewick-Pasco-Richland MSA | 191,822 | 253,340 | 303,622 | 320,150 |
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Benton County | 142,475 | 175,177 | 206,873 | 217,850 |
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Kennewick | 54,751 | 73,917 | 83,921 | 87,120 |
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Richland | 38,708 | 48,058 | 60,560 | 64,190 |
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West Richland | 8,385 | 11,811 | 16,295 | 18,280 |
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Prosser | 4,838 | 5,714 | 6,062 | 6,610 |
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Benton City | 2,624 | 3,038 | 3,479 | 3,845 |
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Franklin County | 49,347 | 78,163 | 96,749 | 102,300 |
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Pasco | 32,066 | 59,781 | 77,108 | 82,220 |
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Connell | 2,956 | 4,209 | 5,441 | 5,175 |
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Mesa | 425 | 489 | 385 | 400 |
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Kahlotus | 214 | 193 | 147 | 145 |
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Source: Office of Financial Management (link: https://ofm.wa.gov/washington-data-research/population-demographics/population-estimates), April 1 Official Population Estimates Released on June 28, 2024 |
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Mesa | 425 | 489 | 385 | 400 |
Total Households | 2022 Estimate |
Households | 107,700 |
Families | 79,027 |
