Anchorage, AK
Population 289,069 · Alaska
About Anchorage, AK
Anchorage is a major city located in Alaska with a population of 289,069 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $98,152 per year, which is 31% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.9 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Anchorage features a median home value of $375,900, which is 53% above the national median of $244,900. This places Anchorage in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,453, 25% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 119,717 total housing units, 64% are owner-occupied (68,751 units) and 36% are renter-occupied (39,117 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Anchorage shows an unemployment rate of 4.6%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 9.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Anchorage have an average one-way commute time of 19 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
37.7% of Anchorage residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 4.2% White, 13.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.4% Black or African American, and 3.1% Asian residents, with 10.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Climate & Weather
Anchorage experiences an annual average temperature of 36.6°F with 39.82" of precipitation per year. The cooler climate brings distinct seasons, including snowy winters that appeal to those who enjoy four-season living. Summer highs average around 64°F (July–August), while winter lows dip to approximately 14°F (December–January).
How Anchorage Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in Anchorage, AK
Compared to national averages, Anchorage has a median household income of $98,152 (31% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $375,900, which is 53% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,453 is 25% above the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Anchorage's income is 45% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 85% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Anchorage, AK?
Anchorage offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $98,152, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 37.7% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 9.3%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 19 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $375,900. However, as a major city, Anchorage provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Anchorage has a population of 289,069 with a median age of 34.9 years. Compare Anchorage with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Anchorage
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fairbanks | 32,242 | $72,077 | $255,700 | Compare |
| Juneau city and | 31,969 | $100,513 | $432,500 | Compare |
| Badger | 19,033 | $98,042 | $291,600 | Compare |
| Knik-Fairview | 18,921 | $95,000 | $311,800 | Compare |
| College | 11,730 | $76,831 | $279,100 | Compare |
| North Lakes | 10,583 | $102,785 | $338,900 | Compare |
| Tanaina | 9,738 | $95,587 | $298,500 | Compare |
| Wasilla | 9,435 | $70,756 | $325,000 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Climate & Weather in Anchorage
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 26 | 24 | 32 | 40 | 55 | 62 | 65 | 64 | 52 | 40 | 30 | 20 |
| Low °F | 18 | 14 | 18 | 24 | 40 | 48 | 52 | 53 | 41 | 31 | 21 | 10 |
| Rain " | 1.5 | 2.3 | 1.3 | 2.6 | 2.1 | 2.6 | 5.2 | 7.2 | 4.2 | 1.9 | 5.4 | 3.5 |
Other Cities in Alaska
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Anchorage With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Anchorage
What is the population of Anchorage, AK?
The population of Anchorage, AK is 289,069 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Alaska.
What is the median household income in Anchorage?
The median household income in Anchorage, AK is $98,152 per year, which is 31% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Anchorage?
The median home value in Anchorage, AK is $375,900, which is 53% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Anchorage?
The median monthly rent in Anchorage, AK is $1,453, which is 25% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Anchorage?
The unemployment rate in Anchorage, AK is 4.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Anchorage, AK a good place to live?
Anchorage offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 289,069 and a median age of 34.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Anchorage, AK?
37.7% of residents in Anchorage aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Anchorage?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Anchorage, AK: median home value is $375,900 (53% above national), median rent is $1,453/month, and median household income is $98,152. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Anchorage?
The poverty rate in Anchorage, AK is 9.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Anchorage, AK?
Anchorage's population is 4.2% White, 13.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.4% Black or African American, 3.1% Asian, and 5.1% two or more races. 10.9% of residents are foreign-born.