Old Harbor, AK
Population 186 · Alaska
About Old Harbor, AK
Old Harbor is a small community located in Alaska with a population of 186 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $31,250 per year, which is 58% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33 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 Old Harbor features a median home value of $95,000, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Old Harbor one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $863, 26% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 153 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (60 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (31 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Old Harbor shows an unemployment rate of 29.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 55.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Old Harbor have an average one-way commute time of 4.7 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
6.1% of Old Harbor 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, 91.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Old Harbor, AK
Compared to national averages, Old Harbor has a median household income of $31,250 (58% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $95,000, which is 61% below the national median. Monthly rent at $863 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Old Harbor's income is 54% below the state average of $67,815, and home values are 53% below the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Old Harbor, AK?
Old Harbor offers affordable housing with a median home value of $95,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $863/month, and short commute times averaging just 4.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($31,250) that falls below the national average. However, Old Harbor’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Old Harbor has a population of 186 with a median age of 33 years. Compare Old Harbor with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Old Harbor
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Mountain | 185 | $56,563 | $104,700 | Compare |
| Minto | 190 | $62,917 | $32,600 | Compare |
| Ruby | 180 | $35,208 | $72,900 | Compare |
| Arctic Village | 177 | $39,750 | $38,400 | Compare |
| McGrath | 195 | $51,250 | $102,200 | Compare |
| Port Alsworth | 174 | $66,250 | $450,000 | Compare |
| Seldovia | 174 | $84,750 | $195,000 | Compare |
| Allakaket | 173 | $24,688 | $102,100 | 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 Old Harbor With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Old Harbor
What is the population of Old Harbor, AK?
The population of Old Harbor, AK is 186 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 Old Harbor?
The median household income in Old Harbor, AK is $31,250 per year, which is 58% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Old Harbor?
The median home value in Old Harbor, AK is $95,000, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Old Harbor?
The median monthly rent in Old Harbor, AK is $863, which is 26% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Old Harbor?
The unemployment rate in Old Harbor, AK is 29.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Old Harbor, AK a good place to live?
Old Harbor offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 186 and a median age of 33, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Old Harbor, AK?
6.1% of residents in Old Harbor 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 Old Harbor?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Old Harbor, AK: median home value is $95,000 (61% below national), median rent is $863/month, and median household income is $31,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Old Harbor?
The poverty rate in Old Harbor, AK is 55.4%, 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 Old Harbor, AK?
Old Harbor's population is 0.0% White, 91.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.6% of residents are foreign-born.