Sterling, AK
Population 6,776 · Alaska
About Sterling, AK
Sterling is a small community in Alaska with a population of 6,776 residents. The median household income is $110,341 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Sterling is 45.1 years.
Housing in Sterling has a median home value of $346,100 and median monthly rent of $1,095. Of the 3,883 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,363 owner-occupied and 384 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Sterling is 7.0% and the poverty rate is 5.9%. 31.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 28.9 minutes.
How Sterling Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in Sterling, AK
Compared to national averages, Sterling has a median household income of $110,341 (47% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $346,100, which is 41% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,095 is 6% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Sterling's income is 63% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 70% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Sterling, AK?
Sterling offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $110,341, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,095/month, and a low poverty rate of 5.9%, better than the national average.
Sterling has a population of 6,776 with a median age of 45.1 years. Compare Sterling with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Sterling
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gateway | 6,716 | $137,150 | $436,200 | Compare |
| Bethel | 6,313 | $109,718 | $354,400 | Compare |
| Palmer | 6,141 | $70,550 | $275,900 | Compare |
| South Lakes | 6,132 | $89,632 | $367,700 | Compare |
| Kenai | 7,562 | $74,907 | $249,400 | 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 |
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 Sterling
What is the population of Sterling, AK?
The population of Sterling, AK is 6,776 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Sterling?
The median household income in Sterling, AK is $110,341 per year.
What is the median home value in Sterling?
The median home value in Sterling, AK is $346,100.
What is the average rent in Sterling?
The median monthly rent in Sterling, AK is $1,095.
What is the unemployment rate in Sterling?
The unemployment rate in Sterling, AK is 7.0%.