Cost of Living in Juneau City and Borough, Alaska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Juneau City and Borough Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Juneau City and Borough ranks #1,647 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 48%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Juneau City and Borough, Alaska
Juneau's high income shields housing burden
Despite a median rent of $1,462, Juneau's exceptional household income of $100,513 keeps the rent-to-income ratio to just 17.4%—well below national norms. This Southeast Alaska capital demonstrates how strong wages can offset expensive housing, making the overall affordability picture favorable relative to the nation.
Alaska's highest earners, favorable affordability
Juneau's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Alaska's best despite housing costs that appear steep in absolute dollars, thanks to the state's highest median household income at $100,513. This income advantage gives Juneau residents superior purchasing power statewide.
Most expensive Southeast, best-paying too
Juneau's $1,462 rent trails only Kodiak Island ($1,669) statewide, yet Juneau residents earn substantially more than neighbors in Haines, Ketchikan, or Hoonah-Angoon. The combination of high wages and high costs makes Juneau unique among Alaska's Southeast communities.
High earners manage 17.4% rent ratio
Juneau renters spend $1,462 monthly on a $100,513 income, consuming just 17.4% of earnings—the lowest rent burden among Alaska's expensive communities. Homeowners face a steeper path at $1,722 monthly, but the $100,513 median income provides genuine capacity to absorb these costs.
Juneau rewards high earners and career changers
Relocate to Juneau if pursuing better-paying positions; the $100,513 median income is Alaska's highest, making the 17.4% rent burden manageable despite $1,462 monthly rent. Compare this advantage against lower-cost Haines (15.1% ratio, $72,607 income) to weigh career growth against pure affordability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Juneau City and Borough
Affordability Verdict
Juneau City and Borough offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,462/month — about 17.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,462/month rent versus $1,722/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $260/month cheaper — a 15% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $58,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $73,800/year. With a median household income of $100,513, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Juneau City and Borough are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Alaska, Juneau City and Borough is more affordable than Chugach Census Area by roughly 5% ($1,462/mo vs $1,397/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Juneau City and Borough
Rent Burden
17.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,345
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.6%
of gross income
The median home in Juneau City and Borough may be a stretch
Median home value is $432,500. Estimated monthly cost: $3,453 vs. your max of $2,345.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Juneau City and Borough, Alaska?
What is the median rent in Juneau City and Borough?
Is Juneau City and Borough affordable?
How does Juneau City and Borough's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Juneau City and Borough?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Juneau City and Borough, Alaska? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Juneau City and Borough
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.