Sterling, AK
Population 6,776 · Alaska
About Sterling, AK
Sterling is a small town located in Alaska with a population of 6,776 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $110,341 per year, which is 47% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.1 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Sterling features a median home value of $346,100, which is 41% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Sterling in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,095, 6% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,883 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (2,363 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (384 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Sterling shows an unemployment rate of 7.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 5.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Sterling have an average one-way commute time of 28.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
31.3% of Sterling residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.9% White, 6.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 0.4% Asian residents, with 3.8% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Sterling With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Sterling
What is the population of Sterling, AK?
The population of Sterling, AK is 6,776 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 Sterling?
The median household income in Sterling, AK is $110,341 per year, which is 47% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Sterling?
The median home value in Sterling, AK is $346,100, which is 41% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Sterling?
The median monthly rent in Sterling, AK is $1,095, which is 6% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Sterling?
The unemployment rate in Sterling, AK is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Sterling, AK a good place to live?
Sterling offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 6,776 and a median age of 45.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Sterling, AK?
31.3% of residents in Sterling 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 Sterling?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Sterling, AK: median home value is $346,100 (41% above national), median rent is $1,095/month, and median household income is $110,341. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Sterling?
The poverty rate in Sterling, AK is 5.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Sterling, AK?
Sterling's population is 0.9% White, 6.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.8% of residents are foreign-born.