Cost of Living in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
These figures are county medians, not a personal budget. Use them to frame rent, ownership, and income tradeoffs, then account for household size, commute, financing, insurance, taxes, debt, and local availability before making a decision.
How Matanuska-Susitna Borough Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Matanuska-Susitna Borough ranks #2,145 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 32%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska
Mat-Su outearns and outafford most
Matanuska-Susitna's median household income of $90,625 exceeds the national average of $74,755 by 21%, while its rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% ranks among Alaska's best. High local wages offset moderately higher rents, making this Alaska's most financially robust region for residents.
Alaska's best affordability rank
Mat-Su's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio beats Alaska's state average of 18.6%, earning it a top-tier affordability ranking statewide. The borough's robust economy—anchored by Anchorage's suburbs and regional employment—translates into higher incomes and better housing affordability overall.
Premium homes, premium incomes
Mat-Su's median home value of $319,200 is Alaska's highest among these eight counties, yet its 16.7% rent-to-income ratio remains superior because local incomes keep pace. This reflects a thriving regional economy where rising housing costs track with wage growth rather than outpacing it.
High income sustains higher housing costs
Renters allocate $1,258/month against a robust $90,625 annual income ($7,552/month), consuming just 16.7%—one of Alaska's healthiest ratios. Homeowners face steeper monthly obligations of $1,643 on $319,200 median home values, but high local incomes make mortgage financing manageable compared to other boroughs.
Mat-Su for ambitious Alaska relocations
If you're moving to Alaska with income expectations above $90,000, Mat-Su offers the strongest economic fundamentals and best housing affordability relative to earnings. The borough's proximity to Anchorage's job market makes it ideal for professionals seeking remote living with urban-adjacent opportunity.
Cost of Living Advisory: Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Affordability Verdict
Matanuska-Susitna Borough is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,258/month representing approximately 16.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 31.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Matanuska-Susitna Borough pay $1,258/month on average, compared to $1,643/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 23%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $50,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $70,414/year. With a median household income of $90,625, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Matanuska-Susitna Borough are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Matanuska-Susitna Borough sits 5% less expensive than Bristol Bay Borough ($1,318/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,115
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.8%
of gross income
The median home in Matanuska-Susitna Borough may be a stretch
Median home value is $319,200. Estimated monthly cost: $2,548 vs. your max of $2,115.
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
What is the cost of living in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska?
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What is the median home value in Matanuska-Susitna Borough?
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023). Data is informational only and is not personalized financial advice.
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