Palmer, AK
Population 6,141 · Alaska
About Palmer, AK
Palmer is a small community in Alaska with a population of 6,141 residents. The median household income is $70,550 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Palmer is 32.9 years.
Housing in Palmer has a median home value of $275,900 and median monthly rent of $1,134. Of the 2,516 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,441 owner-occupied and 870 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Palmer is 8.4% and the poverty rate is 11.0%. 23.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 25.8 minutes.
How Palmer Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in Palmer, AK
Compared to national averages, Palmer has a median household income of $70,550 (6% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $275,900, which is 13% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,134 is 2% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Palmer's income is 4% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 35% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Palmer, AK?
Palmer offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,134/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.0%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,550) that falls below the national average. However, Palmer’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Palmer has a population of 6,141 with a median age of 32.9 years. Compare Palmer with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Palmer
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Lakes | 6,132 | $89,632 | $367,700 | Compare |
| Bethel | 6,313 | $109,718 | $354,400 | Compare |
| Chena Ridge | 5,927 | $140,722 | $411,600 | Compare |
| Steele Creek | 5,861 | $117,260 | $331,200 | Compare |
| Homer | 5,750 | $73,723 | $363,700 | Compare |
| Gateway | 6,716 | $137,150 | $436,200 | Compare |
| Sterling | 6,776 | $110,341 | $346,100 | Compare |
| Kodiak | 5,497 | $71,373 | $314,800 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Palmer
What is the population of Palmer, AK?
The population of Palmer, AK is 6,141 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Palmer?
The median household income in Palmer, AK is $70,550 per year.
What is the median home value in Palmer?
The median home value in Palmer, AK is $275,900.
What is the average rent in Palmer?
The median monthly rent in Palmer, AK is $1,134.
What is the unemployment rate in Palmer?
The unemployment rate in Palmer, AK is 8.4%.