Cost of Living in Skagway Municipality, Alaska
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Skagway Municipality Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Skagway Municipality ranks #430 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 14%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Skagway Municipality, Alaska
Skagway's rent-to-income ratio near state average
Skagway renters allocate 18.8% of income to housing costs, nearly matching Alaska's state average of 18.6% and remaining safely below the national 30% affordability threshold. While median household income of $78,594 is slightly above the national median, Alaska's remote location keeps rental prices elevated.
Middle-ground affordability across Alaska
Skagway's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% places it squarely in Alaska's mid-range for housing affordability, neither among the most nor least expensive communities. The municipality offers a balanced housing market compared to the state's extremes.
Skagway offers competitive rents
Skagway's $1,228 monthly rent is the lowest among Southeast Alaskan peers, including Sitka ($1,350) and Yakutat ($1,276), though income here is also lower at $78,594. Homeownership is more affordable, with median costs of $981 monthly, making Skagway attractive for those seeking to build equity.
Skagway's housing affordability math
Renters earning $78,594 annually pay $1,228 monthly, dedicating less than a fifth of gross income to rent. Owner-occupied households fare even better, with $981 monthly payments representing just 15% of household income on a $430,000 median home value.
Skagway for owner-occupants seeking value
Skagway stands out as Alaska's most affordable community for prospective homeowners, with below-average ownership costs and moderate home values. If you're planning to buy and stay in Alaska, Skagway offers rare ownership opportunities without the premium price tags of other communities.
Cost of Living Advisory: Skagway Municipality
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Skagway Municipality, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,228/month in gross rent, with 19.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,228/month rent versus $981/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $247/month cheaper — a 20% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $49,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $42,043/year. With a median household income of $78,594, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Skagway Municipality are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Alaska, Skagway Municipality is more affordable than North Slope Borough by roughly 5% ($1,228/mo vs $1,167/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Skagway Municipality
Rent Burden
18.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,834
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.0%
of gross income
The median home in Skagway Municipality may be a stretch
Median home value is $430,000. Estimated monthly cost: $3,433 vs. your max of $1,834.
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
What is the cost of living in Skagway Municipality, Alaska?
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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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