Cost of Living in Bethel, AK

With a cost of living index of 116, Bethel, AK is a notably expensive place to live. Living here is 16% more expensive than the national average and 26% above the Alaska state average of 90. Bethel is a smaller community of 6,313 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Bethel's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,657 (26% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $354,400 (16% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.2x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Bethel is $109,718, which is 46% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 18% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. While incomes are above average, they more than offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Bethel. The area sees an average annual temperature of 31.4°F, with summers averaging 55°F and winters around 10°F. Annual rainfall totals 19.7 inches spread over roughly 151 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.