Median Income
$39,667
47% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
1,249/100K
229% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
0.9%
97% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$828
29% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
47.1%
47% higher than US avg
Unemployment
9.7%
169% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
31.6%
155% higher than US avg
How Alakanuk Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population997
Median Age21.5 yrs
Density31/mi²
Male / Female57% / 43%
Largest GroupWhite 0%
Veterans4.8%
Economy
F
Median Income$39,667
Per Capita$11,599
Unemployment9.7%
Poverty31.6%
County GDP$181M
Commute6 min
Housing
A
Rent$828
Ownership68.0%
Zillow$435,931
Housing Units265
Rent Burden13.4%
Crime
F
Violent1,249/100K
Property1,483/100K
Health
Obesity47.1%
Uninsured18.0%
Smoking37.2%
Depression22.6%
Heart Disease9.9%
Climate
Avg Temp28°F (-2°C)
AQI21 (Good)
Rain17.2 in/yr
Sunny Days274/yr
Elevation13 ft (4 m)
Education
F
Bachelor's+0.9%
High School+74.6%
Graduate+0.0%
School Score4.86
Community
2024 VoteR 56% / D 44%
Commute6 min
Broadband77.5%
Is Alakanuk a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Alakanuk receives an overall livability score of 1.9 out of 5.0, earning a grade of D. Key strengths include abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, above-average unemployment, an elevated poverty rate. Alakanuk faces significant challenges across several quality-of-life categories.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Alakanuk is $39,667, 47% below the national average of $75,149. At 9.7%, unemployment is notably high. The poverty rate of 31.6% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 6 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.
Cost of Living & Housing
Renters pay a median of $828 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability.
Safety & Crime
With 1,249 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, public safety is a notable concern / this is significantly above the national average of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 1,483 per 100,000, 24% below the national average.
Education
0.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 74.6% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 4.9/10.
Climate & Weather
Alakanuk has a cool climate with an average annual temperature of 28°F. Winters average 6°F in January while summers reach 52°F in July. With 274 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 17.2 inches, including 80.8 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 21.
Alakanuk has a population of 997 with a density of 31 people per square mile, spread across 39.6 square miles. The median age is 21.5 years, 45% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 43.2% female and 56.8% male. The city is predominantly Hispanic (99.9%). English is the primary language spoken at home by 73.5% of residents, while 26.5% speak Spanish. 4.8% of the population are veterans. 15.9% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 88.9% have health insurance coverage.
Population
21.5yrs
Median Age
45% below US avg
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
73.5%
6% below US avg
Spanish
26.5%
98% above US avg
The median household income in Alakanuk is $39,667, which is 47% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $11,599 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $748, 48% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 9.7% (above the 3.6% US average). 31.6% of residents live below the poverty line, higher than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 121 business establishments, including 17 restaurants. The cost of living index is 102.4, roughly in line with the national average. Workers commute an average of 6 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 0.0% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income
| Median HH Income | $39,667 |
| 47% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $11,599 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $748 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $27,423 |
| Gini Index | 0.445 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 9.7% |
| 169% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 31.6% |
| 155% above US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 121 |
| County GDP | $181M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 17 |
| Healthcare | 6 |
| Retail | 26 |
| Manufacturing | 3 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| |
| Cost of Living | 102.40 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 5.8 min |
| Drive Alone | 0.0% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 0.0% |
Zillow estimates the typical home value at $435,931. Monthly rent averages $828 (29% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $1,194 for a one-bedroom to $1,467 for a two-bedroom apartment. 68.0% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 265 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1990. 13.4% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing.
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $828 |
| 29% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 13.4% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $1,061 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,194 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,467 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,941 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,304 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 68.0% |
| Owner-Occupied | 68.0% |
| Renter-Occupied | 32.0% |
| Housing Units | 265 |
| Median Year Built | 1990 |
Property Tax
In Alakanuk, 47.1% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 18.2% have diabetes (above the 10.5% national rate). Heart disease affects 9.9% of residents, above the national average. 41.5% have high blood pressure. 37.2% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 15.3% report binge drinking. 38.6% are physically inactive, above the national average. 22.6% report depression. 23.5% experience frequent mental distress. 18.0% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate). 100.0% of residents have access to exercise opportunities.
Health Metrics: Alakanuk vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 47.1% |
| 47% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 18.2% |
| Heart Disease | 9.9% |
| High Blood Pressure | 41.5% |
| Asthma | 14.6% |
| COPD | 12.5% |
| Cancer | 5.7% |
| Stroke | 6.3% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 37.2% |
| 166% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 15.3% |
| Physical Inactivity | 38.6% |
| Depression | 22.6% |
| Mental Distress | 23.5% |
| Physical Distress | 23.4% |
| Short Sleep | 45.3% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 88.9% |
| Uninsured | 18.0% |
| 109% above US avg |
| Mental Health | 1:889 |
| Checkup Rate | 65.8% |
| Dental Visits | 32.3% |
| Premature Death | 24,556/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Exercise Access | 100.0% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 6 |
Alakanuk has a violent crime rate of 1,249 per 100,000 residents, 229% above the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 1,483 per 100,000, 24% below the U.S. average. The area has experienced 91 federally declared disasters. Overall, Alakanuk receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Alakanuk vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 1,248.7/100K |
| 229% above US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 1,482.8/100K |
| 24% below US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Avg Accident Severity | 0.0 / 4.0 |
| FEMA Disasters | 91 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Alakanuk has a cool climate with an average annual temperature of 28°F (-2°C). Winters average 6°F in January while summers reach 52°F in July. The area gets 274 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 17.2 inches (drier than the 38-inch national average). The area receives 80.8 inches of snow annually, making winter weather a significant factor for residents. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 21 / among the cleanest air in the country. The city sits at an elevation of 13 feet, near sea level.
Temperature
6°F Jan (-15°C)
52°F Jul (11°C)
| Annual Average | 28.0°F |
| 48% below US avg |
| January Average | 6°F (-15°C) |
| July Average | 52°F (11°C) |
| Sunny Days | 274 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 13 ft (4 m) |
| Area | 39.6 sq mi (102.5 km²) |
| Population Density | 31/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 62.7110°N, 164.6497°W |
| Timezone | America/Anchorage |
| County | Kusilvak Census Area County |
| Nearest Airport | Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC)
487 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
17.2"
55% below US avg
Wettest Month (Aug)
4.49"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 21.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Relatively Low |
| Risk Score | 57.9 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 100.0 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 5.9 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Very Low |
| Earthquake |
Very Low |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
No Rating |
| Hail |
Very Low |
| Strong Wind |
Very Low |
| Winter Weather |
Relatively Moderate |
| Lightning |
Very Low |
| Ice Storm |
Very Low |
| Drought |
No Rating |
| Cold Wave |
Relatively High |
| Landslide |
Relatively Low |
| Coastal Flood |
No Rating |
| Volcano |
Very Low |
| Avalanche |
Very Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
36 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M4.3. Most recent: M2.6 on Jul 17, 2025.
| Jun 20, 2009 |
131 km WNW of Emmonak, Alaska |
M4.3 |
129 km |
| Nov 5, 1998 |
69 km S of Nome, Alaska |
M3.7 |
140 km |
| Feb 4, 2003 |
115 km SSW of Nome, Alaska |
M3.6 |
132 km |
| Apr 14, 2010 |
82 km NNW of Emmonak, Alaska |
M3.4 |
88 km |
| Feb 22, 2010 |
105 km NW of Emmonak, Alaska |
M3.4 |
106 km |
| Jan 18, 2005 |
110 km SSW of Nome, Alaska |
M3.3 |
115 km |
| Mar 20, 2018 |
86 km NW of Kotlik, Alaska |
M3.2 |
99 km |
| Sep 1, 2010 |
80 km SSW of Nome, Alaska |
M3.1 |
139 km |
| Oct 2, 2023 |
132 km NW of Nunam Iqua, Alaska |
M3.1 |
130 km |
| Jul 29, 2005 |
63 km S of Solomon, Alaska |
M3.0 |
143 km |
| Mar 10, 2005 |
96 km NW of Emmonak, Alaska |
M3.0 |
98 km |
| Jun 10, 2009 |
121 km WNW of Emmonak, Alaska |
M3.0 |
121 km |
| Jan 16, 2006 |
10 km NE of Nunam Iqua, Alaska |
M3.0 |
13 km |
| May 6, 2010 |
80 km NNW of Emmonak, Alaska |
M3.0 |
86 km |
| Jun 10, 2021 |
75 km NW of Emmonak, Alaska |
M3.0 |
78 km |
| Jan 7, 2005 |
107 km SSW of Nome, Alaska |
M2.9 |
120 km |
| Mar 21, 2005 |
23 km WNW of Emmonak, Alaska |
M2.9 |
21 km |
| Aug 3, 2005 |
72 km S of Solomon, Alaska |
M2.8 |
134 km |
| Jul 2, 2001 |
70 km S of Solomon, Alaska |
M2.8 |
136 km |
| Feb 27, 2024 |
94 km NW of Emmonak, Alaska |
M2.8 |
96 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Nearby Volcanoes
1 volcano within 200 km.
Closest: St. Michael (152 km).
| Name |
Type |
Elevation |
Last Eruption |
Distance |
| St. Michael |
Shield(s) |
715 m (2,346 ft) |
Unknown |
152 km |
Source: Smithsonian Institution Global Volcanism Program (GVP). Sorted by distance.
Wildfire History
6 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: APOON PASS (89,373 ac, 2022).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2022 |
APOON PASS |
89,373 |
69 km |
| 1991 |
132242 |
14,334 |
84 km |
| 2015 |
APOON |
14,058 |
93 km |
| 2000 |
PASTOLIAK RIVER |
12,003 |
93 km |
| 2022 |
PONGLEVIK RIVER |
3,261 |
50 km |
| 2017 |
ALLEN |
2,501 |
78 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
6°F (-15°C) |
0.9 in |
Coldest |
| February |
9°F (-13°C) |
0.9 in |
|
| March |
12°F (-11°C) |
0.8 in |
|
| April |
22°F (-5°C) |
0.7 in |
Driest |
| May |
37°F (3°C) |
1.0 in |
|
| June |
49°F (9°C) |
1.7 in |
|
| July |
52°F (11°C) |
2.4 in |
|
| August |
52°F (11°C) |
4.5 in |
Warmest, Wettest |
| September |
45°F (7°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| October |
31°F (-0°C) |
1.9 in |
|
| November |
19°F (-7°C) |
1.5 in |
|
| December |
10°F (-12°C) |
1.1 in |
|
Alakanuk has a seasonal temperature swing of 47°F / from 6°F in January to 52°F in August. Total annual precipitation is 21.0 inches, with August being the wettest month (4.5") and April the driest (0.7").
Average costs for common services in Alakanuk. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$256 ($154–$410) |
| Specialist Visit |
$358 ($205–$563) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$205 ($102–$358) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$2,253 ($819–$5,120) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$133 ($77–$205) |
| Dental Filling |
$256 ($154–$410) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$46 ($26–$77) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$77 ($51–$123) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$307 ($154–$512) |
| Tire Rotation |
$41 ($20–$77) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$614 ($410–$1,024) |
| Battery Replacement |
$205 ($102–$358) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$102 ($61–$154) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$92 ($51–$143) |
| HVAC Repair |
$410 ($154–$819) |
| HVAC System Install |
$7,168 ($4,096–$12,288) |
| Roof Repair |
$1,024 ($410–$2,048) |
| Roof Replacement |
$9,216 ($5,632–$15,360) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,536 ($512–$3,584) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$15,360 ($5,120–$30,720) |
| DUI Defense |
$5,120 ($2,048–$10,240) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,536 ($819–$3,072) |
| Will Preparation |
$512 ($205–$1,024) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,560 ($1,024–$5,120) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$26 ($15–$46) |
| Women's Haircut |
$56 ($31–$102) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$154 ($77–$256) |
| Manicure |
$26 ($15–$46) |
| Pedicure |
$41 ($26–$67) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$82 ($51–$133) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$4.20 ($3.07–$5.63) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.58 ($2.56–$5.12) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.89 ($2.56–$5.63) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$4.61 ($3.07–$6.66) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$5.63 ($4.10–$7.68) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$1.02 ($0.61–$1.84) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$143 ($82–$256) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$72 ($31–$154) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$72 ($41–$123) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$72 ($41–$102) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$67 ($31–$102) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$87 ($51–$154) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$205 ($77–$512) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$2,048 ($1,229–$3,584) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$72 ($31–$133) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$15 ($8.19–$26) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$102 ($31–$256) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$31 ($15–$77) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,229 ($614–$2,560) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$1,024 ($512–$2,048) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$410 ($205–$717) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$51 ($26–$102) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$1,024 ($410–$2,560) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$12,800 ($5,120–$30,720) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$61 ($31–$102) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$102 ($51–$205) |
| Dog Grooming |
$61 ($31–$102) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$41 ($20–$77) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$307 ($154–$512) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$205 ($102–$410) |
View all 9 services
Frequently Asked Questions About Alakanuk
What is the population of Alakanuk?
Alakanuk has a population of 997 residents and is located in Alaska. The population density is 31 people per square mile, spread across 39.6 square miles. The median age of residents is 21.5 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 43.2% female and 56.8% male.
Is Alakanuk expensive to live in?
Alakanuk has a cost of living roughly in line with the national average, with an index of 102.4 (baseline: 100). The median household income is $39,667, 47% below the national average of $75,149. Renters pay a median of $828 per month, below the national average of $1,163.
Is Alakanuk safe?
Public safety is a concern in Alakanuk, with a violent crime rate of 1,249 per 100,000 / significantly above the national average of 380. However, crime tends to concentrate in certain areas, and many neighborhoods remain relatively safe. Property crime occurs at a rate of 1,483 per 100,000 (below the national average). Overall, Alakanuk receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Alakanuk?
Alakanuk has a cool climate with an average annual temperature of 28°F (-2°C). Winter temperatures average 6°F in January, while summers reach an average of 52°F in July. The area receives 274 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 17.2 inches, with 80.8 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 21.
How is the job market in Alakanuk?
The job market in Alakanuk faces challenges, with unemployment at 9.7% / significantly above the national rate of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $748. There are 121 business establishments in the area, including 17 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 6 minutes, and 0.0% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Alakanuk?
For renters, the median monthly rent is $828. Fair market rent is $1,194 for a 1-bedroom and $1,467 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 68.0%.
How are the schools in Alakanuk?
Schools in Alakanuk have an average test score of 4.9 out of 10, below typical national benchmarks. Families may want to research individual school ratings. 0.9% of adults in Alakanuk hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 74.6% have completed high school. 0.0% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Alakanuk?
The obesity rate in Alakanuk is 47.1% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 37.2% of adults are smokers. 38.6% are physically inactive. 22.6% of residents report depression. 18.0% lack health insurance (above the national rate). 100.0% of residents have access to exercise opportunities.
What is transportation like in Alakanuk?
The average commute in Alakanuk is 6 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 0% of workers drive alone to work, and 0.0% work from home.
What are the demographics of Alakanuk?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Alakanuk is 99.9% Hispanic or Latino. 73.5% of residents speak only English at home, while 26.5% speak Spanish. 4.8% of the population are military veterans. 15.9% of residents have a disability. 88.9% have health insurance coverage.
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