Kenai, AK
Population 7,562 · Alaska
About Kenai, AK
Kenai is a small community in Alaska with a population of 7,562 residents. The median household income is $74,907 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Kenai is 34.1 years.
Housing in Kenai has a median home value of $249,400 and median monthly rent of $1,134. Of the 3,326 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,891 owner-occupied and 1,025 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Kenai is 8.8% and the poverty rate is 12.3%. 24.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 14.2 minutes.
How Kenai Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in Kenai, AK
Compared to national averages, Kenai has a median household income of $74,907 (0% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $249,400, which is 2% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,134 is 2% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Kenai's income is 10% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 22% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Kenai, AK?
Kenai offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,134/month, and a low poverty rate of 12.3%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 14.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($74,907) that falls below the national average. However, Kenai’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Kenai has a population of 7,562 with a median age of 34.1 years. Compare Kenai with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Kenai
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kalifornsky | 8,136 | $91,081 | $306,200 | Compare |
| Ketchikan | 8,151 | $76,835 | $340,300 | Compare |
| Sterling | 6,776 | $110,341 | $346,100 | Compare |
| Sitka city and | 8,393 | $101,207 | $442,100 | Compare |
| Gateway | 6,716 | $137,150 | $436,200 | Compare |
| Bethel | 6,313 | $109,718 | $354,400 | Compare |
| Palmer | 6,141 | $70,550 | $275,900 | Compare |
| South Lakes | 6,132 | $89,632 | $367,700 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Kenai
What is the population of Kenai, AK?
The population of Kenai, AK is 7,562 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Kenai?
The median household income in Kenai, AK is $74,907 per year.
What is the median home value in Kenai?
The median home value in Kenai, AK is $249,400.
What is the average rent in Kenai?
The median monthly rent in Kenai, AK is $1,134.
What is the unemployment rate in Kenai?
The unemployment rate in Kenai, AK is 8.8%.