Cost of Living in Whittier, AK

With a cost of living index of 73, Whittier, AK is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 27% cheaper than the national average and 17% below the Alaska state average of 90. Whittier is a small community of 471 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Whittier's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $965 (27% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $83,500 (73% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.5x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Whittier is $57,188, which is 24% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 20% 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 Whittier. The area sees an average annual temperature of 37.1°F, with summers averaging 53°F and winters around 24°F. Annual rainfall totals 159.3 inches spread over roughly 204 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.