Kotzebue, AK
Population 3,046 · Alaska
About Kotzebue, AK
Kotzebue is a small town located in Alaska with a population of 3,046 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $106,328 per year, which is 41% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31 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 Kotzebue features a median home value of $264,500, which is 8% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Kotzebue in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,610, 38% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,067 total housing units, 44% are owner-occupied (368 units) and 56% are renter-occupied (477 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Kotzebue shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Kotzebue have an average one-way commute time of 7.2 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
20.0% of Kotzebue 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 3.3% White, 73.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 2.8% of the population being foreign-born.
How Kotzebue Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in Kotzebue, AK
Compared to national averages, Kotzebue has a median household income of $106,328 (41% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $264,500, which is 8% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,610 is 38% above the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Kotzebue's income is 57% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 30% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Kotzebue, AK?
Kotzebue offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $106,328, well above the national average, and short commute times averaging just 7.2 minutes.
Kotzebue has a population of 3,046 with a median age of 31 years. Compare Kotzebue with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Kotzebue
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eielson AFB | 3,133 | $59,716 | $0 | Compare |
| Farm Loop | 2,940 | $110,332 | $393,300 | Compare |
| Goldstream | 3,238 | $92,604 | $289,600 | Compare |
| Big Lake | 3,291 | $76,292 | $286,600 | Compare |
| Ester | 2,784 | $67,640 | $242,000 | Compare |
| Petersburg | 3,346 | $76,466 | $298,500 | Compare |
| Seward | 2,735 | $71,016 | $290,300 | Compare |
| North Pole | 2,663 | $93,355 | $272,000 | 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 Kotzebue With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Kotzebue
What is the population of Kotzebue, AK?
The population of Kotzebue, AK is 3,046 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Alaska.
What is the median household income in Kotzebue?
The median household income in Kotzebue, AK is $106,328 per year, which is 41% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Kotzebue?
The median home value in Kotzebue, AK is $264,500, which is 8% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Kotzebue?
The median monthly rent in Kotzebue, AK is $1,610, which is 38% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Kotzebue?
The unemployment rate in Kotzebue, AK is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Kotzebue, AK a good place to live?
Kotzebue offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,046 and a median age of 31, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Kotzebue, AK?
20.0% of residents in Kotzebue 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 Kotzebue?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Kotzebue, AK: median home value is $264,500 (8% above national), median rent is $1,610/month, and median household income is $106,328. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Kotzebue?
The poverty rate in Kotzebue, AK is 13.4%, 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 Kotzebue, AK?
Kotzebue's population is 3.3% White, 73.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 1.3% two or more races. 2.8% of residents are foreign-born.