Knik River, AK
Population 858 · Alaska
About Knik River, AK
Knik River is a small community located in Alaska with a population of 858 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $100,417 per year, which is 34% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.1 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Knik River features a median home value of $266,800, which is 9% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Knik River in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,250, 7% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 381 total housing units, 87% are owner-occupied (285 units) and 13% are renter-occupied (43 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Knik River shows an unemployment rate of 1.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 9.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Knik River have an average one-way commute time of 35.7 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
24.2% of Knik River residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 5.6% White, 7.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 5.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Knik River Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in Knik River, AK
Compared to national averages, Knik River has a median household income of $100,417 (34% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $266,800, which is 9% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,250 is 7% above the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Knik River's income is 48% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 31% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Knik River, AK?
Knik River offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $100,417, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.9%, and a low poverty rate of 9.8%, better than the national average.
Knik River has a population of 858 with a median age of 37.1 years. Compare Knik River with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Knik River
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kwethluk | 852 | $48,056 | $63,700 | Compare |
| Mountain Village | 872 | $62,188 | $21,500 | Compare |
| Kachemak | 835 | $71,125 | $404,300 | Compare |
| Hoonah | 894 | $81,406 | $340,800 | Compare |
| Kivalina | 813 | $70,278 | $119,600 | Compare |
| Unalakleet | 800 | $86,250 | $163,800 | Compare |
| Buffalo Soapstone | 799 | $68,750 | $278,600 | Compare |
| St. Mary's | 788 | $45,000 | $103,400 | 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 Knik River With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Knik River
What is the population of Knik River, AK?
The population of Knik River, AK is 858 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 Knik River?
The median household income in Knik River, AK is $100,417 per year, which is 34% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Knik River?
The median home value in Knik River, AK is $266,800, which is 9% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Knik River?
The median monthly rent in Knik River, AK is $1,250, which is 7% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Knik River?
The unemployment rate in Knik River, AK is 1.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Knik River, AK a good place to live?
Knik River offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 858 and a median age of 37.1, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Knik River, AK?
24.2% of residents in Knik River 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 Knik River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Knik River, AK: median home value is $266,800 (9% above national), median rent is $1,250/month, and median household income is $100,417. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Knik River?
The poverty rate in Knik River, AK is 9.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Knik River, AK?
Knik River's population is 5.6% White, 7.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 5.1% of residents are foreign-born.