North Lakes, AK vs Unalaska, AK
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. North Lakes is 19.2% cheaper than Unalaska. With a cost index of 109 vs 135, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from North Lakes to Unalaska should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in North Lakes is $1,459/month compared to $2,040/month in Unalaska — a 29% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: North Lakes is more affordable at $338,900 median vs $448,700.
Median household income in North Lakes is $102,785 compared to $114,286 in Unalaska (-10.1%). The higher salaries in Unalaska partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of North Lakes spend roughly 17% of their income on rent, less than the 21.4% in Unalaska.
Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (37.1°F vs 39.3°F). Unalaska receives more rainfall at 42.7" per year compared to 12.6" in North Lakes.
Income & Cost
Housing
Salary Equivalency Calculator
What does your salary in one city buy you in the other?
Everyday Prices
BLS Average Prices by metro area
Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)