Buffalo Soapstone, AK
Population 799 · Alaska
About Buffalo Soapstone, AK
Buffalo Soapstone is a small community located in Alaska with a population of 799 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $68,750 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48.2 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Buffalo Soapstone features a median home value of $278,600, which is 14% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Buffalo Soapstone in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 416 total housing units, 91% are owner-occupied (298 units) and 9% are renter-occupied (28 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Buffalo Soapstone shows an unemployment rate of 11.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 12.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Buffalo Soapstone have an average one-way commute time of 28.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
28.7% of Buffalo Soapstone 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 3.8% White, 18.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.6% Asian residents, with 4.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Buffalo Soapstone, AK
Compared to national averages, Buffalo Soapstone has a median household income of $68,750 (9% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $278,600, which is 14% above the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Buffalo Soapstone's income is 1% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 37% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Buffalo Soapstone, AK?
Buffalo Soapstone offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($68,750) that falls below the national average. However, Buffalo Soapstone’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Buffalo Soapstone has a population of 799 with a median age of 48.2 years. Compare Buffalo Soapstone with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Buffalo Soapstone
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unalakleet | 800 | $86,250 | $163,800 | Compare |
| St. Mary's | 788 | $45,000 | $103,400 | Compare |
| Denali Park | 787 | $83,750 | $458,300 | Compare |
| Kivalina | 813 | $70,278 | $119,600 | Compare |
| Happy Valley | 773 | $55,521 | $208,600 | Compare |
| Nunapitchuk | 766 | $43,750 | $86,700 | Compare |
| Savoonga | 766 | $51,875 | $105,300 | Compare |
| Kachemak | 835 | $71,125 | $404,300 | 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 Buffalo Soapstone With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Buffalo Soapstone
What is the population of Buffalo Soapstone, AK?
The population of Buffalo Soapstone, AK is 799 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Alaska.
What is the median household income in Buffalo Soapstone?
The median household income in Buffalo Soapstone, AK is $68,750 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Buffalo Soapstone?
The median home value in Buffalo Soapstone, AK is $278,600, which is 14% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Buffalo Soapstone?
The median monthly rent in Buffalo Soapstone, AK is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Buffalo Soapstone?
The unemployment rate in Buffalo Soapstone, AK is 11.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Buffalo Soapstone, AK a good place to live?
Buffalo Soapstone offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 799 and a median age of 48.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Buffalo Soapstone, AK?
28.7% of residents in Buffalo Soapstone 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 Buffalo Soapstone?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Buffalo Soapstone, AK: median home value is $278,600 (14% above national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $68,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.1x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Buffalo Soapstone?
The poverty rate in Buffalo Soapstone, AK is 12.4%, 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 Buffalo Soapstone, AK?
Buffalo Soapstone's population is 3.8% White, 18.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.6% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 4.3% of residents are foreign-born.