Lakewood is home to nearly 64,200 residents (2023 estimate) and has one of the most culturally diverse populations in Washington. Lakewood is proud to be one of the few cities in the state with a majority, minority population. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, 54% of Lakewood residents identify as Black, Indigenous or people of color.
Race & Ethnicity
- White: 47% (31,528 people)
- Hispanic or Latino: 17% (11,783 people)
- Black or African American: 13% (8,897 people)
- Two or More Races: 10% (6,712 people)
- Asian: 8% (5,140 people)
- Pacific Islander: 4% (2,563 people)
- Native American: 1% (539 people)
- Some Other Race: 0% (235 people)
Data from the 2020 U.S. Census and American Community Survey (ACS).
Statement on Equity
Government policies have enduring effects on communities and demographics. The Lakewood City Council signed an equity statement in 2021 (PDF) to instill equity as a priority for the city and development of future policies.
The statement reflects the Lakewood City Council’s consideration of the influence of government on the wellbeing of diverse populations.
With its adoption, the Lakewood City Council committed to the following practices:
- Instilling equity as a priority of policy and the delivery of services.
- Enacting initiatives that support and celebrate the diversity of the community.
- Ensuring equity in municipal planning.
- Identifying and dismantling preconceived prejudices.
- Increasing sensitivity to social norms and cultural expectations.
- Pursuing justice and equity for all residents.
Equity Index Map
To further equity work and awareness in Lakewood, an Equity Index Map was created. The map provides demographic data about the city’s population. The data uses five indicators of equitable living conditions within Lakewood. They are:
- Livability
- Accessibility
- Economy
- Environment
- Education
This interactive tool provides an in-depth look at these target areas using census block data. The City of Lakewood will use information in future policy development. This includes the areas of land use and housing planning, housing programs and human services work.
A complete guide to the data and the index can be found in this downloadable PDF.
Most of the data on the map come from the American Community Survey (ACS) and are displayed by U.S. Census Block Group. When viewing the city as a whole, all indicators reflect the sum of the block groups most closely aligned with city boundaries. Because City limits do not follow block group boundaries, the sum of those block groups will not match estimates of citywide population or other estimates.
Washington State Office of Financial Management estimates Lakewood’s population was 64,150 people in 2023. For 2021, OFM estimates citywide population was 63,600. ACS block group estimates for 2021, show the sum of all block groups most closely aligned the city boundaries to be 67,397 people, as shown on the Equity Map. The variation between the two 2021 estimates may explain slight differences in metrics summed to the citywide block groups in the Equity Map.