Big Lake, AK
Population 3,291 · Alaska
About Big Lake, AK
Big Lake is a small town located in Alaska with a population of 3,291 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,292 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Big Lake features a median home value of $286,600, which is 17% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Big Lake in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,165, 0% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,762 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (1,038 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (297 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Big Lake shows an unemployment rate of 3.9%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 12.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Big Lake have an average one-way commute time of 39.6 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
19.6% of Big Lake 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 2.6% White, 9.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, and 2.3% Asian residents, with 1.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Big Lake Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in Big Lake, AK
Compared to national averages, Big Lake has a median household income of $76,292 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $286,600, which is 17% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,165 is 0% above the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Big Lake's income is 13% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 41% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Big Lake, AK?
Big Lake offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,292, well above the national average.
Big Lake has a population of 3,291 with a median age of 36.9 years. Compare Big Lake with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Big Lake
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goldstream | 3,238 | $92,604 | $289,600 | Compare |
| Petersburg | 3,346 | $76,466 | $298,500 | Compare |
| Eielson AFB | 3,133 | $59,716 | $0 | Compare |
| Kotzebue | 3,046 | $106,328 | $264,500 | Compare |
| Mill Bay | 3,541 | $94,359 | $430,600 | Compare |
| Farm Loop | 2,940 | $110,332 | $393,300 | Compare |
| Nome | 3,668 | $113,561 | $338,900 | Compare |
| Ester | 2,784 | $67,640 | $242,000 | 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 Big Lake With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Big Lake
What is the population of Big Lake, AK?
The population of Big Lake, AK is 3,291 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 Big Lake?
The median household income in Big Lake, AK is $76,292 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Big Lake?
The median home value in Big Lake, AK is $286,600, which is 17% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Big Lake?
The median monthly rent in Big Lake, AK is $1,165, which is 0% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Big Lake?
The unemployment rate in Big Lake, AK is 3.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Big Lake, AK a good place to live?
Big Lake offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,291 and a median age of 36.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Big Lake, AK?
19.6% of residents in Big Lake 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 Big Lake?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Big Lake, AK: median home value is $286,600 (17% above national), median rent is $1,165/month, and median household income is $76,292. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Big Lake?
The poverty rate in Big Lake, AK is 12.6%, 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 Big Lake, AK?
Big Lake's population is 2.6% White, 9.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, 2.3% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 1.4% of residents are foreign-born.