Happy Valley, AK
Population 773 · Alaska
About Happy Valley, AK
Happy Valley is a small community located in Alaska with a population of 773 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,521 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 61.5 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 Happy Valley features a median home value of $208,600, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Happy Valley 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 614 total housing units, 91% are owner-occupied (348 units) and 9% are renter-occupied (33 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Happy Valley shows an unemployment rate of 9.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Happy Valley have an average one-way commute time of 24.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.4% of Happy Valley 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 1.2% White, 17.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.2% Asian residents, with 1.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Happy Valley, AK
Compared to national averages, Happy Valley has a median household income of $55,521 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $208,600, which is 15% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Happy Valley's income is 18% below the state average of $67,815, and home values are 2% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Happy Valley, AK?
Happy Valley offers affordable housing with a median home value of $208,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and short commute times averaging just 24.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,521) that falls below the national average. However, Happy Valley’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Happy Valley has a population of 773 with a median age of 61.5 years. Compare Happy Valley with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Happy Valley
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nunapitchuk | 766 | $43,750 | $86,700 | Compare |
| Savoonga | 766 | $51,875 | $105,300 | Compare |
| Denali Park | 787 | $83,750 | $458,300 | Compare |
| St. Mary's | 788 | $45,000 | $103,400 | Compare |
| Buffalo Soapstone | 799 | $68,750 | $278,600 | Compare |
| Unalakleet | 800 | $86,250 | $163,800 | Compare |
| Klawock | 744 | $49,063 | $249,000 | Compare |
| Akutan | 737 | $27,500 | $91,400 | 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 Happy Valley With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Happy Valley
What is the population of Happy Valley, AK?
The population of Happy Valley, AK is 773 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 Happy Valley?
The median household income in Happy Valley, AK is $55,521 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Happy Valley?
The median home value in Happy Valley, AK is $208,600, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Happy Valley?
The median monthly rent in Happy Valley, AK is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Happy Valley?
The unemployment rate in Happy Valley, AK is 9.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Happy Valley, AK a good place to live?
Happy Valley offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 773 and a median age of 61.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Happy Valley, AK?
23.4% of residents in Happy Valley 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 Happy Valley?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Happy Valley, AK: median home value is $208,600 (15% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $55,521. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Happy Valley?
The poverty rate in Happy Valley, AK is 17.1%, 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 Happy Valley, AK?
Happy Valley's population is 1.2% White, 17.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.4% of residents are foreign-born.