Kivalina, AK
Population 813 · Alaska
About Kivalina, AK
Kivalina is a small community located in Alaska with a population of 813 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $70,278 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 20.7 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 Kivalina features a median home value of $119,600, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Kivalina one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,028, 12% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 174 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (122 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (32 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Kivalina shows an unemployment rate of 23.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 22.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Kivalina have an average one-way commute time of 4.3 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
2.3% of Kivalina 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 0.0% White, 98.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Kivalina, AK
Compared to national averages, Kivalina has a median household income of $70,278 (6% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $119,600, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,028 is 12% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Kivalina's income is 4% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 41% below the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Kivalina, AK?
Kivalina offers affordable housing with a median home value of $119,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,028/month, and short commute times averaging just 4.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,278) that falls below the national average. However, Kivalina’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Kivalina has a population of 813 with a median age of 20.7 years. Compare Kivalina with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Kivalina
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unalakleet | 800 | $86,250 | $163,800 | Compare |
| Buffalo Soapstone | 799 | $68,750 | $278,600 | Compare |
| Kachemak | 835 | $71,125 | $404,300 | Compare |
| St. Mary's | 788 | $45,000 | $103,400 | Compare |
| Denali Park | 787 | $83,750 | $458,300 | Compare |
| Kwethluk | 852 | $48,056 | $63,700 | Compare |
| Happy Valley | 773 | $55,521 | $208,600 | Compare |
| Knik River | 858 | $100,417 | $266,800 | 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 Kivalina With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Kivalina
What is the population of Kivalina, AK?
The population of Kivalina, AK is 813 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 Kivalina?
The median household income in Kivalina, AK is $70,278 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Kivalina?
The median home value in Kivalina, AK is $119,600, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Kivalina?
The median monthly rent in Kivalina, AK is $1,028, which is 12% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Kivalina?
The unemployment rate in Kivalina, AK is 23.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Kivalina, AK a good place to live?
Kivalina offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 813 and a median age of 20.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Kivalina, AK?
2.3% of residents in Kivalina 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 Kivalina?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Kivalina, AK: median home value is $119,600 (51% below national), median rent is $1,028/month, and median household income is $70,278. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Kivalina?
The poverty rate in Kivalina, AK is 22.1%, 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 Kivalina, AK?
Kivalina's population is 0.0% White, 98.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.