Cost of Living in Old Harbor, AK

With a cost of living index of 71, Old Harbor, AK is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 29% cheaper than the national average and 19% below the Alaska state average of 90. Old Harbor is a small community of 186 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Old Harbor's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $863 (35% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $95,000 (69% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Old Harbor is $31,250, which is 58% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 33% of household income on rent. This exceeds the recommended 30% threshold, meaning many renters here are cost-burdened. 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 Old Harbor. The area sees an average annual temperature of 42.2°F, with summers averaging 55°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 78.3 inches spread over roughly 204 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.