Cost of Living in Wainwright, AK

With a cost of living index of 69, Wainwright, AK is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 31% cheaper than the national average and 21% below the Alaska state average of 90. Wainwright is a small community of 612 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Wainwright's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $765 (42% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $109,100 (64% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Wainwright is $85,750, which is 14% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 11% 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 Wainwright. The area sees an average annual temperature of 13.7°F, with summers averaging 39°F and winters around -10°F. Annual rainfall totals 5.4 inches spread over roughly 98 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.