Cost of Living in North Slope Borough, Alaska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How North Slope Borough Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
North Slope Borough ranks #1,729 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 45%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in North Slope Borough, Alaska
North Slope offers best affordability rates
North Slope's median household income of $86,313 outpaces the U.S. average by 15%, while its 16.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Alaska's most livable. High oil-industry wages combined with moderate rents create Alaska's sweetest affordability equation.
Alaska's affordability champion
At 16.2%, North Slope's rent-to-income ratio beats Alaska's state average of 18.6%, earning it the top affordability ranking among these eight boroughs. The borough's petroleum-driven economy supports high household incomes while keeping rents reasonable relative to earnings.
Oil wealth enables housing stability
North Slope's $1,167/month rent and $86,313 median income create Alaska's best renter-affordability balance, outpacing both rural subsistence areas and pricier remote regions. The petroleum sector's wage premiums ensure housing costs never overwhelm household budgets here.
Strong income shields housing burden
Renters allocate $1,167/month rent against a $86,313 annual income ($7,193/month), consuming just 16.2% and leaving substantial room for other expenses. Homeowners face moderate monthly costs of $617 on properties averaging $219,600, reflecting the borough's relatively affordable ownership landscape.
North Slope for economic security
If you can secure work in North Slope's oil and gas sector, housing affordability is exceptionally strong and income potential is Alaska's highest. The extreme Arctic climate and isolation offset the financial advantages, so weigh lifestyle trade-offs carefully.
Cost of Living Advisory: North Slope Borough
Affordability Verdict
North Slope Borough is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,167/month representing approximately 16.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 18.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,167/month rent versus $617/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $550/month cheaper — a 47% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $46,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,443/year. With a median household income of $86,313, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 18.0% of renter households in North Slope Borough are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Alaska, North Slope Borough is less affordable than Skagway Municipality by roughly 5% ($1,167/mo vs $1,228/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in North Slope Borough
Rent Burden
16.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,014
per month
Owner Cost Burden
8.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in North Slope Borough
Median home value is $219,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,753 vs. your max of $2,014.
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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