Cost of Living in Unalaska, AK

With a cost of living index of 135, Unalaska, AK is a notably expensive place to live. Living here is 35% more expensive than the national average and 45% above the Alaska state average of 90. Unalaska is a small community of 4,430 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Unalaska's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $2,040 (55% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $448,700 (47% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.9x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Unalaska is $114,286, which is 52% 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. While incomes are above average, they more than offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Unalaska. The area sees an average annual temperature of 39.3°F, with summers averaging 50°F and winters around 30°F. Annual rainfall totals 42.7 inches spread over roughly 250 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.