Cost of Living in Gulkana, AK

With a cost of living index of 84, Gulkana, AK is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 16% cheaper than the national average and 6% below the Alaska state average of 90. Gulkana is a small community of 73 residents.

The median household income in Gulkana is $59,250, which is 21% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 15% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Gulkana. The area sees an average annual temperature of 28.2°F, with summers averaging 55°F and winters around 1°F. Annual rainfall totals 11.8 inches spread over roughly 101 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Anchorage, AK (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

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.