Spokane Nexus
An analytical profile of the Spokane-Spokane Valley Metropolitan Statistical Area, exploring its demographic, economic, and geographic dimensions.
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Overview
Defining the Metropolitan Area
The Spokane–Spokane Valley Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), as delineated by the United States Census Bureau, encompasses Spokane and Stevens counties in Washington state, with Spokane city and its primary suburb, Spokane Valley, serving as its core anchors. As of July 1, 2021, the estimated population for this MSA was 593,466 individuals. This region forms a significant part of the larger Spokane–Coeur d'Alene combined statistical area (CSA), which integrates the Spokane MSA with the adjacent Coeur d'Alene metropolitan area. The primary urban corridor connecting these two MSAs largely follows the path of Interstate 90.
Economic Footprint
In 2010, the Spokane–Spokane Valley MSA registered a gross metropolitan product (GMP) of $20.413 billion. More recent data indicates a substantial economic base, with the total GDP reaching $35.689 billion in 2022, underscoring its growing economic significance within the region.
Interconnected Regions
The Spokane MSA is intrinsically linked with the Coeur d'Alene metropolitan area, forming the Spokane–Coeur d'Alene Combined Statistical Area (CSA). This designation highlights the functional economic and social ties between these adjacent metropolitan regions, often characterized by commuting patterns and shared economic activities, particularly along the Interstate 90 corridor.
Constituent Counties
Spokane County, Washington
The principal county of the MSA, Spokane County is the most populous and economically central region. It hosts the cities of Spokane and Spokane Valley, serving as the primary hub for commerce, education, and healthcare.
Stevens County, Washington
Located to the north of Spokane County, Stevens County contributes to the MSA's geographic expanse. While less densely populated, it plays a role in the regional economy and offers a more rural character within the metropolitan context.
Key Communities
Major Urban Centers
The MSA is anchored by several significant population centers, each contributing to the region's character and economic vitality.
Over 200,000 Inhabitants
Spokane: The principal city and economic core of the metropolitan area, offering a diverse range of services and cultural attractions.
50,000 to 199,999 Inhabitants
Spokane Valley: The largest suburb, functioning as a significant commercial and residential hub.
Mid-Sized Communities
Several communities fall within the 10,000 to 49,999 population range, contributing to the suburban and exurban fabric of the MSA.
10,000 to 49,999 Inhabitants
Airway Heights, Cheney, Fairwood, Liberty Lake: These cities represent important residential and commercial nodes within the broader metropolitan area.
5,000 to 9,999 Inhabitants
Country Homes, Fairchild AFB, Mead, Medical Lake, Otis Orchards-East Farms, Suncrest, Town and Country: These communities add to the diverse settlement patterns within the MSA.
Smaller Settlements and Unincorporated Areas
Numerous smaller towns and unincorporated places contribute to the regional landscape, offering distinct community identities and supporting the MSA's overall population distribution.
1,000 to 4,999 Inhabitants
Chewelah, Colville, Deer Park, Kettle Falls, Millwood: These towns serve local populations and contribute to the economic activity of their respective sub-regions.
1,000 Inhabitants or Fewer
A range of smaller communities including Addy, Clayton, Fairfield, Four Lakes, Green Bluff, Latah, Loon Lake, Marcus, Northport, Rockford, Spangle, Springdale, Waverly, and Valley.
Unincorporated Places
Numerous unincorporated areas such as Amber, Arden, Bluecreek, Cedonia, Chattaroy, Colbert, Dartford, Deep Creek, Denison, Echo, Elk, Espanola, Evans, Ford, Freedom, Freeman, Fruitland, Gifford, Geiger Heights, Glenrose, Greenacres, Hunters, Lakeside, Marshall, Mead, Mica, Milan, Newman Lake, Nine Mile Falls, Onion Creek, Orchard Prairie, Plaza, Peone, Rice, Ruby, Spokane Bridge, Tumtum, Tyler, Valleyford, and Wellpinit, further diversify the settlement landscape.
Demographic Profile
Population Composition
As of the 2020 census, the Spokane–Spokane Valley MSA reported a population of 585,784. The demographic composition indicates a predominantly White population (86%), with smaller percentages identifying as Black (2%), Native American (1%), Asian (2%), Pacific Islander (0%), and Hispanic (5%). These figures provide a foundational understanding of the region's ethnic and racial diversity.
Religious Affiliations
Data from the Association of Religion Data Archives (2010) highlights the religious landscape within the Spokane MSA. Key affiliations include Evangelical Protestant (64,277), Catholic (66,202), and Mainline Protestant (24,826) adherents, alongside smaller groups and a significant portion identified as 'Unclaimed' (339,338), suggesting a varied spiritual and secular orientation among the population.
Historical Population Trends
Decennial Census Data
The historical population data reveals a significant growth trajectory for the Spokane metropolitan area since its early recorded census figures. From a modest population of 1,992 in 1860, the area has experienced substantial expansion, particularly notable in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and continuing through subsequent decades.
| Census Year | Population | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1860 | 1,992 | — |
| 1870 | 2,734 | 37.2% |
| 1880 | 5,507 | 101.4% |
| 1890 | 41,828 | 659.5% |
| 1900 | 68,058 | 62.7% |
| 1910 | 164,701 | 142.0% |
| 1920 | 169,257 | 2.8% |
| 1930 | 176,182 | 4.1% |
| 1940 | 191,083 | 8.5% |
| 1950 | 247,554 | 29.6% |
| 1960 | 303,131 | 22.5% |
| 1970 | 310,197 | 2.3% |
| 1980 | 379,394 | 22.3% |
| 1990 | 401,227 | 5.8% |
| 2000 | 469,737 | 17.1% |
| 2010 | 527,753 | 12.4% |
| 2020 | 585,784 | 11.0% |
| 2023 (est.) | 600,292 | 2.5% |
This data, derived from U.S. Decennial Census records and recent estimates, illustrates the dynamic population growth and shifts experienced by the Spokane metropolitan region over more than a century.
Economic Indicators
Gross Metropolitan Product (GMP)
The economic output of the Spokane–Spokane Valley MSA has shown consistent growth. The Gross Metropolitan Product (GMP) was recorded at $20.413 billion in 2010. By 2022, this figure had risen significantly to $35.689 billion, reflecting the area's expanding economic base and increasing contribution to regional and national economies.
Geographic Characteristics
Area and Elevation
The Spokane Metropolitan Statistical Area covers a total area of 5,641.5 square miles (14,611 km²). The region exhibits notable elevation variance, ranging from a low of 1,109 feet (338 meters) to a high of 7,320 feet (2,230 meters), indicating diverse topographical features within its boundaries.
Time Zone
The Spokane metropolitan area observes the Pacific Time Zone. Standard time is UTC-8 (PST), and during daylight saving time, it shifts to UTC-7 (PDT).
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily from Wikipedia, and may not be entirely comprehensive, current, or precise. It is presented to provide a structured overview for academic study.
This is not professional advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for expert consultation regarding regional planning, economic analysis, demographic studies, or governmental affairs. Users should consult official sources and qualified professionals for specific applications or decision-making.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.