Bethel, AK
Population 6,313 · Alaska
About Bethel, AK
Bethel is a small town located in Alaska with a population of 6,313 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $109,718 per year, which is 46% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 30.9 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 Bethel features a median home value of $354,400, which is 45% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Bethel in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,657, 42% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,484 total housing units, 44% are owner-occupied (877 units) and 56% are renter-occupied (1,108 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bethel shows an unemployment rate of 5.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 12.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Bethel have an average one-way commute time of 9.9 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
20.1% of Bethel residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 2.1% White, 75.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.4% Asian residents, with 5.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Bethel Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in Bethel, AK
Compared to national averages, Bethel has a median household income of $109,718 (46% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $354,400, which is 45% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,657 is 42% above the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Bethel's income is 62% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 74% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Bethel, AK?
Bethel offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $109,718, well above the national average, and short commute times averaging just 9.9 minutes.
Bethel has a population of 6,313 with a median age of 30.9 years. Compare Bethel with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Bethel
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palmer | 6,141 | $70,550 | $275,900 | Compare |
| South Lakes | 6,132 | $89,632 | $367,700 | Compare |
| Chena Ridge | 5,927 | $140,722 | $411,600 | Compare |
| Gateway | 6,716 | $137,150 | $436,200 | Compare |
| Steele Creek | 5,861 | $117,260 | $331,200 | Compare |
| Sterling | 6,776 | $110,341 | $346,100 | Compare |
| Homer | 5,750 | $73,723 | $363,700 | Compare |
| Kodiak | 5,497 | $71,373 | $314,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Alaska
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Bethel With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bethel
What is the population of Bethel, AK?
The population of Bethel, AK is 6,313 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Alaska.
What is the median household income in Bethel?
The median household income in Bethel, AK is $109,718 per year, which is 46% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bethel?
The median home value in Bethel, AK is $354,400, which is 45% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Bethel?
The median monthly rent in Bethel, AK is $1,657, which is 42% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bethel?
The unemployment rate in Bethel, AK is 5.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bethel, AK a good place to live?
Bethel offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 6,313 and a median age of 30.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Bethel, AK?
20.1% of residents in Bethel 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 Bethel?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bethel, AK: median home value is $354,400 (45% above national), median rent is $1,657/month, and median household income is $109,718. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Bethel?
The poverty rate in Bethel, AK is 12.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Bethel, AK?
Bethel's population is 2.1% White, 75.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.4% Asian, and 2.6% two or more races. 5.0% of residents are foreign-born.