Cost of Living in Kusilvak Census Area, Alaska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Kusilvak Census Area Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Kusilvak Census Area ranks #1,069 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 34%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Kusilvak Census Area, Alaska
Kusilvak rents eat 20.7% of income
Kusilvak's rent-to-income ratio of 20.7% exceeds the national affordability comfort zone, meaning renters here dedicate more than one-fifth of their household income to rent alone. Compared to the U.S. median household income of $74,755, Kusilvak's $48,233 median income lags significantly, making housing costs feel steeper even though rents are lower in absolute dollars.
Above Alaska's affordability line
At 20.7%, Kusilvak's rent-to-income ratio ranks above Alaska's state average of 18.6%, placing it among the less affordable boroughs in the state. The median rent of $832/month is substantially lower than Alaska's state median of $1,221, but stagnant local incomes make the burden proportionally heavier.
Kusilvak's rents among Alaska's lowest
Kusilvak offers some of the most affordable absolute rents in rural Alaska at $832/month, undercutting most neighboring remote areas. However, its lower incomes mean the affordability advantage vanishes when comparing rent-to-income ratios against similar rural boroughs.
Housing costs vs. income breakdown
Renters in Kusilvak spend roughly $832/month on rent against a median household income of $48,233 annually ($4,019/month), leaving limited discretionary income after housing costs. Owner-occupants fare better with median monthly costs of $409 on homes valued at $72,700, though finding affordable properties remains challenging in remote Alaska.
Consider Kusilvak for remote living
If you're relocating to Alaska and prioritize lowest absolute housing costs, Kusilvak offers an entry point—but expect lower wages and limited economic diversity. Compare your income prospects carefully against the state average of $74,755 before committing to this remote region.
Cost of Living Advisory: Kusilvak Census Area
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Kusilvak Census Area is affordable. The median rent is $832/month against a median household income of $48,233, putting rent at 20.7% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Kusilvak Census Area pay $832/month on average, compared to $409/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 51%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $17,529/year. With a median household income of $48,233, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 17.0% of renter households in Kusilvak Census Area are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Kusilvak Census Area sits 7% less expensive than Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area ($893/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Kusilvak Census Area
Rent Burden
20.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,125
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Kusilvak Census Area
Median home value is $72,700. Estimated monthly cost: $580 vs. your max of $1,125.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
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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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