Cost of Living in Ketchikan, AK

With a cost of living index of 105, Ketchikan, AK is somewhat more expensive than average. Living here is 5% more expensive than the national average and 14% above the Alaska state average of 90. Ketchikan is a smaller community of 8,151 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Ketchikan's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,319 (0% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $340,300 (12% 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 Ketchikan is $76,835, which is 2% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 21% 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 Ketchikan. The area sees an average annual temperature of 46°F, with summers averaging 58°F and winters around 36°F. Annual rainfall totals 149.5 inches spread over roughly 233 days.

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.