Badger, AK
Population 19,033 · Alaska
About Badger, AK
Badger is a mid-sized city located in Alaska with a population of 19,033 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $98,042 per year, which is 30% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.3 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 Badger features a median home value of $291,600, which is 19% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Badger in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,672, 44% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 7,603 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (5,368 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (1,195 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Badger shows an unemployment rate of 6.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 3.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Badger have an average one-way commute time of 22.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
25.9% of Badger 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 3.6% White, 9.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, and 1.7% Asian residents, with 3.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Climate & Weather
Badger experiences an annual average temperature of 31.4°F with 16.86" 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 73°F (July–August), while winter lows dip to approximately -3°F (December–January).
How Badger Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in Badger, AK
Compared to national averages, Badger has a median household income of $98,042 (30% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $291,600, which is 19% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,672 is 44% above the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Badger's income is 45% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 43% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Badger, AK?
Badger offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $98,042, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 3.9%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.1 minutes.
Badger has a population of 19,033 with a median age of 34.3 years. Compare Badger with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Badger
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Meadow Lakes | 8,994 | $81,250 | $305,100 | Compare |
| Sitka city and | 8,393 | $101,207 | $442,100 | Compare |
| Ketchikan | 8,151 | $76,835 | $340,300 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Climate & Weather in Badger
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 9 | 11 | 26 | 34 | 61 | 70 | 77 | 69 | 52 | 34 | 24 | 6 |
| Low °F | -3 | -3 | 6 | 14 | 38 | 51 | 59 | 54 | 38 | 23 | 15 | -4 |
| Rain " | 1.1 | 1.0 | 0.5 | 0.8 | 1.4 | 2.1 | 2.5 | 2.8 | 1.4 | 1.3 | 0.7 | 1.1 |
Other Cities in Alaska
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Badger With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Badger
What is the population of Badger, AK?
The population of Badger, AK is 19,033 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Alaska.
What is the median household income in Badger?
The median household income in Badger, AK is $98,042 per year, which is 30% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Badger?
The median home value in Badger, AK is $291,600, which is 19% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Badger?
The median monthly rent in Badger, AK is $1,672, which is 44% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Badger?
The unemployment rate in Badger, AK is 6.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Badger, AK a good place to live?
Badger offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 19,033 and a median age of 34.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Badger, AK?
25.9% of residents in Badger aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Badger?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Badger, AK: median home value is $291,600 (19% above national), median rent is $1,672/month, and median household income is $98,042. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Badger?
The poverty rate in Badger, AK is 3.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Badger, AK?
Badger's population is 3.6% White, 9.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, 1.7% Asian, and 1.2% two or more races. 3.7% of residents are foreign-born.