Kaktovik, AK
Population 153 · Alaska
About Kaktovik, AK
Kaktovik is a small community located in Alaska with a population of 153 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $88,750 per year, which is 18% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.4 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 Kaktovik features a median home value of $102,100, which is 58% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Kaktovik one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 54 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (40 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (7 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Kaktovik shows an unemployment rate of 17.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 18.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Kaktovik have an average one-way commute time of 3.6 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
0.0% of Kaktovik 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 2.0% White, 97.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Kaktovik, AK
Compared to national averages, Kaktovik has a median household income of $88,750 (18% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $102,100, which is 58% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Kaktovik's income is 31% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 50% below the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Kaktovik, AK?
Kaktovik offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $88,750, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $102,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 3.6 minutes.
Kaktovik has a population of 153 with a median age of 32.4 years. Compare Kaktovik with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Kaktovik
What is the population of Kaktovik, AK?
The population of Kaktovik, AK is 153 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 Kaktovik?
The median household income in Kaktovik, AK is $88,750 per year, which is 18% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Kaktovik?
The median home value in Kaktovik, AK is $102,100, which is 58% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Kaktovik?
The median monthly rent in Kaktovik, AK is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Kaktovik?
The unemployment rate in Kaktovik, AK is 17.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Kaktovik, AK a good place to live?
Kaktovik offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 153 and a median age of 32.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Kaktovik, AK?
0.0% of residents in Kaktovik 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 Kaktovik?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Kaktovik, AK: median home value is $102,100 (58% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $88,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Kaktovik?
The poverty rate in Kaktovik, AK is 18.1%, 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 Kaktovik, AK?
Kaktovik's population is 2.0% White, 97.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.7% of residents are foreign-born.