Shishmaref, AK
Population 462 · Alaska
About Shishmaref, AK
Shishmaref is a small community located in Alaska with a population of 462 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $62,083 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.7 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 Shishmaref features a median home value of $116,700, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Shishmaref one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $950, 18% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 137 total housing units, 67% are owner-occupied (82 units) and 33% are renter-occupied (40 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Shishmaref shows an unemployment rate of 22.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 23.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Shishmaref have an average one-way commute time of 4.4 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
11.7% of Shishmaref 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 0.9% White, 94.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Shishmaref, AK
Compared to national averages, Shishmaref has a median household income of $62,083 (17% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $116,700, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $950 is 18% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Shishmaref's income is 8% below the state average of $67,815, and home values are 43% below the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Shishmaref, AK?
Shishmaref offers affordable housing with a median home value of $116,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $950/month, and short commute times averaging just 4.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($62,083) that falls below the national average. However, Shishmaref’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Shishmaref has a population of 462 with a median age of 33.7 years. Compare Shishmaref with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
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Demographics
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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 Shishmaref
What is the population of Shishmaref, AK?
The population of Shishmaref, AK is 462 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 Shishmaref?
The median household income in Shishmaref, AK is $62,083 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Shishmaref?
The median home value in Shishmaref, AK is $116,700, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Shishmaref?
The median monthly rent in Shishmaref, AK is $950, which is 18% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Shishmaref?
The unemployment rate in Shishmaref, AK is 22.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Shishmaref, AK a good place to live?
Shishmaref offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 462 and a median age of 33.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Shishmaref, AK?
11.7% of residents in Shishmaref 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 Shishmaref?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Shishmaref, AK: median home value is $116,700 (52% below national), median rent is $950/month, and median household income is $62,083. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Shishmaref?
The poverty rate in Shishmaref, AK is 23.2%, 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 Shishmaref, AK?
Shishmaref's population is 0.9% White, 94.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.5% of residents are foreign-born.