Cost of Living in Haines Borough, Alaska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Haines Borough Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Haines Borough ranks #369 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Haines Borough, Alaska
Haines offers one of Alaska's best deals
At 15.1%, Haines' rent-to-income ratio ranks among the nation's most affordable, well below the national comfort threshold. With a median household income of $72,607 and rent of just $914 monthly, this Southeast Alaska community delivers genuinely attainable housing.
Haines ranks as Alaska's most affordable
Haines Borough's 15.1% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among all measured Alaskan counties, significantly beating the state average of 18.6%. At $914 monthly rent—the absolute lowest statewide—Haines stands out as Alaska's affordability champion.
Southeast Alaska's rental bargain
Haines' $914 rent undercuts every comparable Southeast community: Juneau ($1,462), Ketchikan ($1,388), and Hoonah-Angoon ($986) all cost substantially more. Among Alaska's scattered boroughs and census areas, Haines delivers unmatched rental affordability.
Just 15.1% of income goes to rent
Haines renters spend only $914 monthly on a $72,607 annual income, consuming just 15.1% of earnings and leaving ample room for savings or other expenses. Owner-occupants pay similarly modest $906 monthly, making homeownership nearly as affordable as renting.
Haines is Alaska's affordability sweet spot
If you're seeking an Alaskan move with genuinely low housing costs, Haines delivers the state's best rent-to-income ratio at 15.1%. Compare this against Kodiak (23.9%) or Fairbanks (20.2%) to realize the dramatic savings a relocation here could unlock.
Cost of Living Advisory: Haines Borough
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Haines Borough is affordable. The median rent is $914/month against a median household income of $72,607, putting rent at 15.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Haines Borough pay $914/month on average, compared to $906/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 1%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,829/year. With a median household income of $72,607, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Haines Borough are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Copper River Census Area where rent averages $973/month, Haines Borough is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Haines Borough
Rent Burden
15.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,694
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.0%
of gross income
The median home in Haines Borough may be a stretch
Median home value is $318,900. Estimated monthly cost: $2,546 vs. your max of $1,694.
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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