Cost of Living in Shishmaref, AK

With a cost of living index of 75, Shishmaref, AK is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 25% cheaper than the national average and 15% below the Alaska state average of 90. Shishmaref is a small community of 462 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Shishmaref's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $950 (28% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $116,700 (62% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.9x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Shishmaref is $62,083, which is 17% lower 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. 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 Shishmaref. The area sees an average annual temperature of 24°F, with summers averaging 52°F and winters around 1°F. Annual rainfall totals 11.4 inches spread over roughly 113 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.