Nome, AK
Population 3,668 · Alaska
About Nome, AK
Nome is a small town located in Alaska with a population of 3,668 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $113,561 per year, which is 51% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.6 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 Nome features a median home value of $338,900, which is 38% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Nome in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,567, 35% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,502 total housing units, 49% are owner-occupied (577 units) and 51% are renter-occupied (603 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 Nome shows an unemployment rate of 8.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 7.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Nome have an average one-way commute time of 6.6 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
24.4% of Nome 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 3.2% White, 62.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 1.7% Asian residents, with 5.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How Nome Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in Nome, AK
Compared to national averages, Nome has a median household income of $113,561 (51% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $338,900, which is 38% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,567 is 35% above the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Nome's income is 67% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 66% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Nome, AK?
Nome offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $113,561, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 7.9%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 6.6 minutes.
Nome has a population of 3,668 with a median age of 31.6 years. Compare Nome with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Nome
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mill Bay | 3,541 | $94,359 | $430,600 | Compare |
| Butte | 3,905 | $105,625 | $320,100 | Compare |
| Valdez | 3,911 | $97,067 | $312,400 | Compare |
| Petersburg | 3,346 | $76,466 | $298,500 | Compare |
| Big Lake | 3,291 | $76,292 | $286,600 | Compare |
| Goldstream | 3,238 | $92,604 | $289,600 | Compare |
| Eielson AFB | 3,133 | $59,716 | $0 | Compare |
| Kotzebue | 3,046 | $106,328 | $264,500 | 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 Nome With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Nome
What is the population of Nome, AK?
The population of Nome, AK is 3,668 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 Nome?
The median household income in Nome, AK is $113,561 per year, which is 51% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Nome?
The median home value in Nome, AK is $338,900, which is 38% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Nome?
The median monthly rent in Nome, AK is $1,567, which is 35% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Nome?
The unemployment rate in Nome, AK is 8.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Nome, AK a good place to live?
Nome offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,668 and a median age of 31.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Nome, AK?
24.4% of residents in Nome 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 Nome?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Nome, AK: median home value is $338,900 (38% above national), median rent is $1,567/month, and median household income is $113,561. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Nome?
The poverty rate in Nome, AK is 7.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Nome, AK?
Nome's population is 3.2% White, 62.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 1.7% Asian, and 2.8% two or more races. 5.3% of residents are foreign-born.