Ketchikan, AK vs Meadow Lakes, AK

Ketchikan, AK and Meadow Lakes, AK have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.5% difference in their overall index. Ketchikan scores 105 while Meadow Lakes scores 102 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Ketchikan is $1,319/month compared to $1,308/month in Meadow Lakes — a 1% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Meadow Lakes is more affordable at $305,100 median vs $340,300.

Median household income in Ketchikan is $76,835 compared to $81,250 in Meadow Lakes (-5.4%). Meadow Lakes offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Ketchikan spend roughly 20.6% of their income on rent, more than the 19.3% in Meadow Lakes.

Climate-wise, Ketchikan is notably warmer with an average of 46°F compared to 37.1°F in Meadow Lakes. Ketchikan receives more rainfall at 149.5" per year compared to 12.6" in Meadow Lakes.