We’ve gathered the latest information from the Census Bureau to identify the places with the highest household income in Alaska. Notably, all the available data is from 2021, except for Anchorage, which has updated figures from 2022.
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1. Anchorage
Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, sits in the south-central part of the state. With a median household income of $100,751 and a median home value of $327,500 as of 2022, it’s the economic heartbeat of Alaska. The city offers a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor activities, with attractions like the Alaska Native Heritage Center and Chugach State Park. Job opportunities are diverse, ranging from healthcare and education to oil and transportation sectors.
2. Bethel
Bethel is a remote city in western Alaska, with a median household income of $100,168 and a median home value of $309,900 based on 2021 data. It serves as a hub for surrounding villages and is known for the Kuskokwim 300 sled dog race. Employment here is often found in healthcare, social services, and government, as it is a regional center for the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation.
3. Valdez
Valdez, nestled at the end of a deep fjord in the Prince William Sound, boasts a median household income of $99,151 and a median home value of $202,600 from 2021. Famous for the Valdez oil terminal, it’s a scenic city with opportunities for fishing, hiking, and skiing. The economy is supported by the oil industry, commercial fishing, and tourism, with the city being a starting point for many cruises and the site of the annual Valdez Fish Derbies.
4. Unalaska
Unalaska is located on the Aleutian Islands and is known primarily for its role in the Bering Sea’s robust fishing industry, which is reflected in its higher median household income of $94,271 and median home value of $412,100 as per the 2021 data. The Port of Dutch Harbor in Unalaska is famous for being one of the busiest fishing ports in the United States. Jobs are predominantly found in fishing, seafood processing, and logistics related to maritime industries.
5. Kotzebue
Kotzebue lies above the Arctic Circle on the western coast of Alaska, with a median household income of $95,385 and a median home value of $246,400 based on 2021 figures. It’s a gateway for surrounding smaller villages and the Kobuk Valley National Park. The local economy revolves around public administration, health care, and education, with additional seasonal employment opportunities in tourism and traditional crafts.
6. Nome
Nome is located on the southern Seward Peninsula coast facing the Bering Sea. It has a median household income of $91,375 and a median home value of $291,300 from 2021. Known for its gold rush history, Nome attracts people with its Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race finish line. The economy is supported by health services, tourism, and mining, with substantial seasonal work available during the summer months.
7. Juneau
Juneau is Alaska’s capital city, uniquely accessible only by sea or air. It has a median household income of $90,126 and a median home value of $358,200 as of 2021. Surrounded by stunning wilderness and waterways, Juneau is a draw for both outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking government and service sector jobs, with state government being a major employer. Attractions include the Mendenhall Glacier and the Juneau-Douglas City Museum.
8. Dillingham
Dillingham is a small city in southwestern Alaska, with a median household income of $82,604 and a median home value of $265,200 based on 2021 data. This fishing community, located at the mouth of the Nushagak River, is a hub for commercial salmon fishing. The local economy is heavily reliant on the fishing industry, along with healthcare and education providing additional employment opportunities.
9. Sitka
Sitka, situated on Baranof Island along the outer coast of Alaska’s Inside Passage, has a median household income of $82,083 and a median home value of $367,800 from 2021. Known for its stunning views and rich Tlingit culture, Sitka’s economy is driven by healthcare, education, and public administration, with tourism also playing a significant role. Attractions include the Sitka National Historical Park and the Alaska Raptor Center.
10. Cordova
Cordova is a small town in the Chugach National Forest on the east side of Prince William Sound with a median household income of $77,667 and a median home value of $336,700 as of 2021. It is primarily known for its commercial fishing, particularly for Copper River salmon. The local economy is centered around fishing and seafood processing, and the area is also known for the Cordova Iceworm Festival and the nearby Childs Glacier.
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