Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cantwell, AK
Considering a move to Cantwell, AK? This small community of around 200 residents offers affordable housing with a median home price of $132,000 and average rents near $900. Expect a rural lifestyle, low population density, and cold winters, with summer highs in the upper 60s. While crime rates are modest, amenities are limited and the local school is small, but you'll enjoy access to beautiful Alaskan scenery and a close-knit, welcoming atmosphere. Commute times are short, and the cost of living is reasonable, making Cantwell a unique choice for those seeking tranquility and adventure.
Demographics - Cantwell, AK
Demographics - Cantwell, AK
Cantwell is a small, close-knit community with a population of about 200, where residents enjoy a low-density rural setting of just 3 people per square mile. The median age is 48, and the population is predominantly White and Alaska Native, with a higher number of males than females. A modest percentage of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting the area's cultural blend.
Population:
200
Density:
3 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.0
Gender Ratio:
120 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
76.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
7.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cantwell, AK?
Living in Cantwell offers affordability, with a median home value of $132,000 and average rent around $900 per month. While housing costs are below the national average, utilities and groceries tend to be higher, reflecting the remote Alaskan location. The state’s lack of income tax and relatively low homeowner costs make it attractive for budget-conscious residents.
Median House Value:
$132,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
116.0
Grocery:
134.0
Housing:
82.0
Utilities:
140.0
Transportation:
136.0
Health Care:
124.0
Miscellaneous:
110.0
Crime
Is Cantwell, AK a safe place to live?
Cantwell experiences lower violent crime rates compared to many urban areas, with a 1 in 227 chance of being affected by violent crime. Property crime is a bit more common, at around 1 in 59 chance, but overall, the community remains relatively safe for its small population. Residents enjoy peace of mind in this quiet, rural setting.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
440
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,700
Crime Index:
2,140
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 227
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 59
Weather
What is the weather like in Cantwell, AK year-round?
Cantwell's climate is characterized by cold, snowy winters with lows dipping to -15°F, and mild summers where highs reach into the upper 60s. Residents experience about 48% sunny days throughout the year and an average annual rainfall of 15 inches. The distinct seasonal changes offer a true Alaskan outdoor experience.
Winter
Min:
-15°F
Max:
6°F
Spring
Min:
14°F
Max:
42°F
Summer
Min:
41°F
Max:
68°F
Fall
Min:
15°F
Max:
41°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
15.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Cantwell residents typically enjoy a median household income of $53,000, with many households being owner-occupied. The local poverty rate is 11.5%, and the average commute time is a quick 17.5 minutes, reflecting the area's relaxed pace. Education levels are solid, with most adults holding at least a high school diploma, contributing to a friendly, stable community.
Median Income:
$32,500
Household Income:
$53,000
Family Income:
$59,000
Per Capita Income:
$27,000
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
11.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.0%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
7.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
17.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.0%
Bachelors or More:
18.0%
Education
How are the schools in Cantwell, AK?
Education in Cantwell is centered around the small Cantwell School, which enrolls about 22 students and offers a low student-teacher ratio for personalized attention. While there are no private schools locally, residents have access to higher education at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, located about 160 miles away. The supportive school environment reflects the town’s tight-knit community.
Public Schools
Name:
Cantwell School
Street:
Mile 210.5 Parks Hwy
Phone:
907-768-2231
Students:
22
Student Teacher Ratio:
7.5
Colleges
Name:
University of Alaska Fairbanks
City:
Fairbanks
State:
AK
Distance:
160 miles
Students:
8,500
Healthcare
Healthcare in Cantwell is anchored by the Denali Borough Community Health Center in nearby Healy, providing essential services but no emergency care. Residents benefit from a physician availability of 1.5 per 1,000 people and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 85%. While specialized care may require travel, basic health needs are met locally.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Denali Borough Community Health Center
Address:
Milepost 227.4 Parks Hwy, Healy, AK 99743
Phone:
(907) 683-2211
Type:
Community Health Center
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.0%
Health Care Index:
62.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cantwell, AK?
Cantwell’s housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $132,000 and about three-quarters of homes being owner-occupied. Rental options are available, with an average two-bedroom rent of $900 and a moderate vacancy rate. Home values have appreciated at a steady pace, making it an accessible option for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$132,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Cantwell residents are served by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles, with the closest office located in Fairbanks. Essential services such as licensing and vehicle registration are available both in-person and online. The DMV provides convenient resources for all Alaskan drivers.
State:
Alaska
Department:
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709
Phone:
1-855-269-5551
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.