Cost of Living in Tok, AK

With a cost of living index of 75, Tok, AK is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 25% cheaper than the national average and 15% below the Alaska state average of 90. Tok is a small community of 1,490 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Tok's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $648 (51% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $223,700 (27% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Tok is $44,405, which is 41% 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 Tok. The area sees an average annual temperature of 24.7°F, with summers averaging 57°F and winters around -9°F. Annual rainfall totals 11.3 inches spread over roughly 94 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.