Nanwalek, AK
Population 208 · Alaska
About Nanwalek, AK
Nanwalek is a small community located in Alaska with a population of 208 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $68,250 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 19 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 Nanwalek features a median home value of $141,700, which is 42% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Nanwalek 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 61 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (28 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (9 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Nanwalek shows an unemployment rate of 9.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Nanwalek have an average one-way commute time of 6.7 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
15.5% of Nanwalek 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, 97.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.4% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Nanwalek, AK
Compared to national averages, Nanwalek has a median household income of $68,250 (9% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $141,700, which is 42% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Nanwalek's income is 1% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 30% below the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Nanwalek, AK?
Nanwalek offers affordable housing with a median home value of $141,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and short commute times averaging just 6.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($68,250) that falls below the national average. However, Nanwalek’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Nanwalek has a population of 208 with a median age of 19 years. Compare Nanwalek with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Nanwalek
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tetlin | 208 | $0 | $47,900 | Compare |
| Glacier View | 209 | $51,250 | $174,500 | Compare |
| Seldovia Village | 207 | $74,063 | $203,600 | Compare |
| Harding-Birch Lakes | 206 | $68,958 | $196,900 | Compare |
| Deering | 205 | $55,625 | $106,300 | Compare |
| Golovin | 205 | $63,750 | $102,500 | Compare |
| Shungnak | 211 | $76,667 | $85,000 | Compare |
| Halibut Cove | 214 | $0 | $0 | 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 Nanwalek With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Nanwalek
What is the population of Nanwalek, AK?
The population of Nanwalek, AK is 208 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 Nanwalek?
The median household income in Nanwalek, AK is $68,250 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Nanwalek?
The median home value in Nanwalek, AK is $141,700, which is 42% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Nanwalek?
The median monthly rent in Nanwalek, AK is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Nanwalek?
The unemployment rate in Nanwalek, AK is 9.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Nanwalek, AK a good place to live?
Nanwalek offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 208 and a median age of 19, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Nanwalek, AK?
15.5% of residents in Nanwalek 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 Nanwalek?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Nanwalek, AK: median home value is $141,700 (42% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $68,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Nanwalek?
The poverty rate in Nanwalek, AK is 13.9%, 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 Nanwalek, AK?
Nanwalek's population is 0.0% White, 97.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.4% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.