Wainwright, AK
Population 612 · Alaska
About Wainwright, AK
Wainwright is a small community located in Alaska with a population of 612 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $85,750 per year, which is 14% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29 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 Wainwright features a median home value of $109,100, which is 55% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Wainwright one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $765, 34% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 186 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (113 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (58 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wainwright shows an unemployment rate of 17.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Wainwright have an average one-way commute time of 5.6 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
3.6% of Wainwright 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 5.7% White, 98.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Wainwright Ranks in Alaska
Cost of Living in Wainwright, AK
Compared to national averages, Wainwright has a median household income of $85,750 (14% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $109,100, which is 55% below the national median. Monthly rent at $765 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Wainwright's income is 26% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 46% below the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Wainwright, AK?
Wainwright offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $85,750, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $109,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $765/month. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 5.6 minutes.
Wainwright has a population of 612 with a median age of 29 years. Compare Wainwright with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Wainwright
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
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 Wainwright With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Wainwright
What is the population of Wainwright, AK?
The population of Wainwright, AK is 612 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 Wainwright?
The median household income in Wainwright, AK is $85,750 per year, which is 14% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wainwright?
The median home value in Wainwright, AK is $109,100, which is 55% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Wainwright?
The median monthly rent in Wainwright, AK is $765, which is 34% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wainwright?
The unemployment rate in Wainwright, AK is 17.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Wainwright, AK a good place to live?
Wainwright offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 612 and a median age of 29, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Wainwright, AK?
3.6% of residents in Wainwright 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 Wainwright?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wainwright, AK: median home value is $109,100 (55% below national), median rent is $765/month, and median household income is $85,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Wainwright?
The poverty rate in Wainwright, AK is 16.0%, 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 Wainwright, AK?
Wainwright's population is 5.7% White, 98.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.