South Lakes, AK
Population 6,132 · Alaska
About South Lakes, AK
South Lakes is a small town located in Alaska with a population of 6,132 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $89,632 per year, which is 19% above 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 South Lakes features a median home value of $367,700, which is 50% above the national median of $244,900. This places South Lakes in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,191, 2% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,381 total housing units, 65% are owner-occupied (1,428 units) and 35% are renter-occupied (763 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Lakes shows an unemployment rate of 7.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 10.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in South Lakes have an average one-way commute time of 29.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.3% of South Lakes 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 3.4% White, 7.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 3.2% Asian residents, with 2.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How South Lakes Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in South Lakes, AK
Compared to national averages, South Lakes has a median household income of $89,632 (19% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $367,700, which is 50% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,191 is 2% above the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, South Lakes's income is 32% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 80% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in South Lakes, AK?
South Lakes offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $89,632, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 10.6%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $367,700. However, South Lakes’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South Lakes has a population of 6,132 with a median age of 33 years. Compare South Lakes with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near South Lakes
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palmer | 6,141 | $70,550 | $275,900 | 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 |
| Kodiak | 5,497 | $71,373 | $314,800 | Compare |
| Sterling | 6,776 | $110,341 | $346,100 | 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 South Lakes With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Lakes
What is the population of South Lakes, AK?
The population of South Lakes, AK is 6,132 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 South Lakes?
The median household income in South Lakes, AK is $89,632 per year, which is 19% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Lakes?
The median home value in South Lakes, AK is $367,700, which is 50% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Lakes?
The median monthly rent in South Lakes, AK is $1,191, which is 2% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Lakes?
The unemployment rate in South Lakes, AK is 7.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Lakes, AK a good place to live?
South Lakes offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 6,132 and a median age of 33, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is South Lakes, AK?
23.3% of residents in South Lakes 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 South Lakes?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Lakes, AK: median home value is $367,700 (50% above national), median rent is $1,191/month, and median household income is $89,632. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.1x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in South Lakes?
The poverty rate in South Lakes, AK is 10.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is South Lakes, AK?
South Lakes's population is 3.4% White, 7.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 3.2% Asian, and 1.7% two or more races. 2.0% of residents are foreign-born.