Cost of Living in Dillingham Census Area, Alaska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dillingham Census Area Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Dillingham Census Area ranks #1,914 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dillingham Census Area, Alaska
Dillingham's rent burden beats national norms
At 17.5%, Dillingham's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national sweet spot, meaning renters here dedicate less of their paycheck to housing than typical Americans. With a median household income of $74,250—nearly identical to the nation's $74,755—this area offers genuinely affordable rental housing relative to earnings.
Most affordable rent in Alaska
Dillingham ranks among Alaska's most affordable communities, with a rent-to-income ratio of 17.5% against the state average of 18.6%. The median monthly rent of $1,085 trails Alaska's state average of $1,221, making this census area a relative bargain in an expensive state.
Cheaper than other Alaska hubs
Dillingham's $1,085 monthly rent undercuts Fairbanks ($1,424), Juneau ($1,462), and Kodiak Island ($1,669), though it runs higher than tiny Haines ($914). Among mid-sized Alaskan communities, Dillingham offers one of the lowest housing costs while maintaining respectable median incomes.
Renters spend 17.5%, owners face $666/month
Dillingham renters allocate just 17.5% of their $74,250 annual income to the median $1,085 rent, leaving substantial room for other expenses. Owner-occupants pay a median $666 monthly, significantly lower than the state norm, making homeownership particularly accessible here.
Consider Dillingham for balanced living costs
If you're weighing Alaska relocations, Dillingham delivers affordable housing without sacrificing income—a rare combination statewide. Compare this 17.5% rent burden against pricier neighbors like Kodiak (23.9%) or Fairbanks (20.2%) to see your real savings potential.
Cost of Living Advisory: Dillingham Census Area
Affordability Verdict
Dillingham Census Area offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,085/month — about 17.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Dillingham Census Area is $1,085/month, while owner costs run $666/month. Owning saves approximately $419/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,543/year. With a median household income of $74,250, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Dillingham Census Area are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Kenai Peninsula Borough where rent averages $1,163/month, Dillingham Census Area is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dillingham Census Area
Rent Burden
17.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,733
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Dillingham Census Area
Median home value is $163,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,308 vs. your max of $1,733.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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