History of Chelan County, Washington in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 9, 2025

Chelan County, Washington, established in 1899 from parts of Okanogan and Kittitas Counties, had a population of 79,074 in 2020. Wenatchee is its county seat and largest city. The county's name originates from a Chelan Indian term for "deep water," referring to the notably deep 55-mile-long Lake Chelan.

2000: 2000 census statistics

In 2000, the census recorded 66,616 people, 25,021 households, and 17,364 families living in the county. The population density was 23 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the county was 83.63% White, 0.26% Black or African American, 0.99% Native American, 0.68% Asian, 0.12% Pacific Islander, 12.19% from other races, and 2.14% from two or more races. 19.26% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

2010: 2010 census statistics

In 2010, the census recorded 72,453 people, 27,827 households, and 18,795 families living in the county. The population density was 24.8 inhabitants per square mile. The racial makeup of the county was 79.3% white, 1.0% American Indian, 0.8% Asian, 0.3% black or African American, 0.1% Pacific islander, 15.7% from other races, and 2.7% from two or more races. Those of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 25.8% of the population.