Willow, AK
Population 1,769 · Alaska
About Willow, AK
Willow is a small town located in Alaska with a population of 1,769 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $74,669 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46.7 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 Willow features a median home value of $285,100, which is 16% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Willow in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,282, 10% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,922 total housing units, 91% are owner-occupied (737 units) and 9% are renter-occupied (74 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Willow shows an unemployment rate of 5.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Willow have an average one-way commute time of 59.9 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
25.8% of Willow 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 0.8% White, 9.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.8% Asian residents, with 2.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Willow, AK
Compared to national averages, Willow has a median household income of $74,669 (1% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $285,100, which is 16% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,282 is 10% above the US average of $1,163. Within Alaska, Willow's income is 10% above the state average of $67,815, and home values are 40% above the state median of $203,729.
Why Live in Willow, AK?
Potential considerations include median household income ($74,669) that falls below the national average. However, Willow’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Willow has a population of 1,769 with a median age of 46.7 years. Compare Willow with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alaska.
Similar Cities Near Willow
Cities in Alaska with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haines | 1,781 | $72,250 | $321,000 | Compare |
| Point MacKenzie | 1,728 | $0 | $206,300 | Compare |
| Houston | 1,693 | $60,865 | $235,900 | Compare |
| Cohoe | 1,619 | $59,000 | $228,600 | Compare |
| Kodiak Station | 1,941 | $102,069 | $0 | Compare |
| Prudhoe Bay | 1,971 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Susitna North | 1,506 | $42,614 | $238,200 | Compare |
| Tok | 1,490 | $44,405 | $223,700 | 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 Willow With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Willow
What is the population of Willow, AK?
The population of Willow, AK is 1,769 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 Willow?
The median household income in Willow, AK is $74,669 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Willow?
The median home value in Willow, AK is $285,100, which is 16% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Willow?
The median monthly rent in Willow, AK is $1,282, which is 10% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Willow?
The unemployment rate in Willow, AK is 5.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Willow, AK a good place to live?
Willow offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,769 and a median age of 46.7, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Willow, AK?
25.8% of residents in Willow 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 Willow?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Willow, AK: median home value is $285,100 (16% above national), median rent is $1,282/month, and median household income is $74,669. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Willow?
The poverty rate in Willow, AK is 14.8%, 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 Willow, AK?
Willow's population is 0.8% White, 9.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.8% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.1% of residents are foreign-born.