Wales, AK
Population 286 · Alaska
About Wales, AK
Wales is a small community located in Alaska with a population of 286 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $38,125 per year, which is 49% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 20.7 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 Wales features a median home value of $96,900, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Wales one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 110 total housing units, 67% are owner-occupied (53 units) and 33% are renter-occupied (26 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wales shows an unemployment rate of 14.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 28.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Wales have an average one-way commute time of 4.2 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
0.0% of Wales 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 0.0% White, 92.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Wales, AK
Compared to national averages, Wales has a median household income of $38,125 (49% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $96,900, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Wales's income is 44% below the state average of $67,815, and home values are 52% below the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Wales, AK?
Wales offers affordable housing with a median home value of $96,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and short commute times averaging just 4.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($38,125) that falls below the national average. However, Wales’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wales has a population of 286 with a median age of 20.7 years. Compare Wales with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Wales
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nulato | 284 | $52,143 | $65,000 | Compare |
| Point Lay | 288 | $92,000 | $117,000 | Compare |
| Mekoryuk | 290 | $28,750 | $92,700 | Compare |
| Tyonek | 291 | $57,917 | $45,000 | Compare |
| Shaktoolik | 293 | $65,833 | $93,000 | Compare |
| Clam Gulch | 294 | $91,250 | $244,400 | Compare |
| Elim | 278 | $35,000 | $117,300 | Compare |
| Anaktuvuk Pass | 277 | $83,250 | $137,500 | 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 Wales With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Wales
What is the population of Wales, AK?
The population of Wales, AK is 286 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 Wales?
The median household income in Wales, AK is $38,125 per year, which is 49% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wales?
The median home value in Wales, AK is $96,900, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Wales?
The median monthly rent in Wales, AK is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wales?
The unemployment rate in Wales, AK is 14.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Wales, AK a good place to live?
Wales offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 286 and a median age of 20.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Wales, AK?
0.0% of residents in Wales 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 Wales?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wales, AK: median home value is $96,900 (60% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $38,125. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Wales?
The poverty rate in Wales, AK is 28.0%, 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 Wales, AK?
Wales's population is 0.0% White, 92.3% 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.