Pacific County, Washington

Pacific_County_Courthouse_2020

US_101

WA-6

Pacific County is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 census, the population was 23,365. The county seat is South Bend, and its largest city is Raymond. The county was formed by the government of Oregon Territory on February 4, 1851, and is named for the Pacific Ocean.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 1,223 square miles (3,170 km²), of which 933 square miles (2,420 km²) is land and 290 square miles (750 km²) (24%) is water. The county is located in the southwestern part of the state and is bordered by Grays Harbor County to the north, Lewis County to the east, Wahkiakum County to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

Major Highways

• U.S. Route 101
• State Route 6
• State Route 103
• State Route 105

Adjacent Counties

• Grays Harbor County - north
• Lewis County - east
• Wahkiakum County - south
• Clatsop County, Oregon - south

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 23,365 people, 10,144 households, and 6,234 families residing in the county. The population density was 25 people per square mile (10/km²). There were 14,252 housing units at an average density of 15 per square mile (6/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 85.6% White, 1.0% Black or African American, 2.3% Native American, 1.4% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 5.1% from other races, and 4.4% from two or more races. 8.8% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Economy

The economy of Pacific County is largely based on natural resources, including fishing, oyster farming, and timber. Tourism also plays a significant role, with visitors attracted to the county's scenic coastline, parks, and recreational opportunities.

Communities

Cities

• Ilwaco
• Long Beach
• Raymond
• South Bend

Towns

• Bay Center
• Chinook
• Lebam
• Naselle
• Ocean Park
• Tokeland

Parks and Recreation

Pacific County is home to several state parks and recreational areas, including:

• Cape Disappointment State Park
• Leadbetter Point State Park
• Willapa National Wildlife Refuge

Government and Politics

Pacific County is governed by a three-member Board of County Commissioners. The county is part of Washington's 3rd congressional district.

Related Pages

• Washington (state)
• Grays Harbor County, Washington
• Lewis County, Washington
• Wahkiakum County, Washington
• Pacific Ocean
• Cape Disappointment State Park
• Willapa National Wildlife Refuge