Cost of Living in Haines, AK

With a cost of living index of 91, Haines, AK is slightly more affordable than average. Living here is 9% cheaper than the national average and in line with the Alaska state average. Haines is a small community of 1,781 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Haines's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $914 (31% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $321,000 (5% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.4x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Haines is $72,250, which is 4% 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.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Haines. The area sees an average annual temperature of 41.9°F, with summers averaging 58°F and winters around 26°F. Annual rainfall totals 47.4 inches spread over roughly 167 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.