Washington's Most and Least Religious Counties Revealed

New data shows surprising religious landscape across the state

Feb. 4, 2026 at 10:39pm

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A recent study using U.S. Census data has uncovered the most and least religious counties in Washington state. While the state as a whole is known to be one of the least religious in the country, with only 25% of residents identifying as religious, some counties tell a different story. The largest religions in Washington are non-religious, evangelical, Catholic, and Protestant, with smaller populations of Buddhists and Mormons. The least religious counties based on church attendance are Skamania, Jefferson, San Juan, Klickitat, and Kittitas.

Why it matters

This data provides insight into the diverse religious landscape across Washington state, challenging the common perception of the state as uniformly secular. Understanding the geographic distribution of religious affiliation can inform community outreach, policy decisions, and the work of faith-based organizations.

The details

The religious landscape study, conducted by the Pew Research Center, found that the largest religious groups in Washington are non-religious (38%), evangelical (23%), Catholic (14%), and Protestant (9%), with smaller populations of Buddhists (3%) and Mormons (3%). However, census data showed that the counties with the least number of residents attending church services are the more rural and sparsely populated areas of Skamania, Jefferson, San Juan, Klickitat, and Kittitas.

  • The Pew Research Center's religious landscape study was conducted in 2026.

The players

Pew Research Center

A nonpartisan American think tank that provides information on social issues, public opinion, and demographic trends shaping the United States and the world.

U.S. Census Bureau

The federal government agency responsible for conducting the United States Census, which provides data about the nation's people and economy.

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The takeaway

This data highlights the diversity of religious affiliation across Washington state, challenging the common perception of the state as uniformly secular. Understanding these geographic differences in religiosity can inform community outreach, policy decisions, and the work of faith-based organizations in the state.