College, AK
Population 11,730 · Alaska
About College, AK
College is a mid-sized city located in Alaska with a population of 11,730 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,831 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.9 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 College features a median home value of $279,100, which is 14% above the national median of $244,900. This positions College in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,405, 21% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,186 total housing units, 63% are owner-occupied (2,928 units) and 37% are renter-occupied (1,749 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in College shows an unemployment rate of 1.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in College have an average one-way commute time of 16 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
44.7% of College residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 4.2% White, 9.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, and 4.6% Asian residents, with 7.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Climate & Weather
College experiences an annual average temperature of 29.7°F with 17.31" 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 71°F (July–August), while winter lows dip to approximately -5°F (December–January).
How College Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in College, AK
Compared to national averages, College has a median household income of $76,831 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $279,100, which is 14% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,405 is 21% above the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, College's income is 13% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 37% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in College, AK?
College offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,831, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.7%, and a well-educated community where 44.7% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 6.1%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 16 minutes.
College has a population of 11,730 with a median age of 32.9 years. Compare College with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near College
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Kalifornsky | 8,136 | $91,081 | $306,200 | Compare |
| Kenai | 7,562 | $74,907 | $249,400 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Climate & Weather in College
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 8 | 9 | 24 | 31 | 57 | 68 | 75 | 67 | 50 | 32 | 23 | 5 |
| Low °F | -2 | -3 | 5 | 12 | 37 | 49 | 56 | 52 | 36 | 22 | 12 | -7 |
| Rain " | 1.1 | 1.0 | 0.6 | 1.0 | 1.6 | 2.1 | 1.7 | 3.3 | 1.9 | 1.3 | 0.6 | 1.2 |
Other Cities in Alaska
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare College With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about College
What is the population of College, AK?
The population of College, AK is 11,730 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 College?
The median household income in College, AK is $76,831 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in College?
The median home value in College, AK is $279,100, which is 14% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in College?
The median monthly rent in College, AK is $1,405, which is 21% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in College?
The unemployment rate in College, AK is 1.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is College, AK a good place to live?
College offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 11,730 and a median age of 32.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is College, AK?
44.7% of residents in College 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 College?
Key cost-of-living indicators for College, AK: median home value is $279,100 (14% above national), median rent is $1,405/month, and median household income is $76,831. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.6x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in College?
The poverty rate in College, AK is 6.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is College, AK?
College's population is 4.2% White, 9.8% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, 4.6% Asian, and 3.9% two or more races. 7.9% of residents are foreign-born.