Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Eagle River, AK
Thinking of moving to Eagle River, AK? With a friendly population of 24,500 and a median home price around $420,000, Eagle River offers a close-knit, nature-rich lifestyle just outside Anchorage. Residents enjoy low violent crime rates (225 per 100K), highly rated public schools, and a strong owner-occupied housing market. Expect cold, snowy winters, average commute times of 28 minutes, and easy access to both city amenities and stunning Alaska wilderness—making it a great fit for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Demographics - Eagle River, AK
Demographics - Eagle River, AK
Eagle River is home to about 24,500 residents, with a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 36.7, reflecting a family-friendly community. The area is predominantly White (77.5%) with a growing multicultural presence, and nearly 9% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Population density is moderate, offering space while maintaining a close-knit feel.
Population:
24,500
Density:
350 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.7
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
77.5%
Black:
2.2%
Asian:
3.8%
Others:
16.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Eagle River, AK?
The cost of living in Eagle River is above the national average, with a cost of living index of 128.0 and median home values near $420,000. Utilities and groceries tend to be more expensive, but residents benefit from Alaska's 0% state income tax. Monthly rent averages $1,650, making housing a significant but worthwhile investment for access to outdoor lifestyles and quality amenities.
Median House Value:
$420,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$220
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$650
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
128.0
Grocery:
130.2
Housing:
115.4
Utilities:
147.5
Transportation:
117.8
Health Care:
133.1
Miscellaneous:
115.0
Crime
Is Eagle River, AK a safe place to live?
Eagle River enjoys a relatively low violent crime rate of 225 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 445 chance of being affected by violent crime. Property crime is more common, with a 1 in 70 chance, but overall the community is considered safe for families and outdoor activities. Most residents feel secure thanks to active neighborhood involvement and local policing.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
225
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,420
Crime Index:
1,645
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 445
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Eagle River, AK year-round?
Eagle River experiences cold, snowy winters with temperatures often ranging from 4°F to 22°F, while summers are mild and comfortable, peaking around 70°F. The area receives about 16.7 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 41% of the year, making it ideal for lovers of Alaskan outdoor recreation. Seasonal changes are distinct, offering year-round opportunities for adventure.
Winter
Min:
4°F
Max:
22°F
Spring
Min:
26°F
Max:
49°F
Summer
Min:
50°F
Max:
70°F
Fall
Min:
27°F
Max:
50°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
16.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
41%
Neighbors
Residents of Eagle River enjoy a strong median household income of $104,500 and a low poverty rate of 5.7%. Nearly all adults hold at least a high school diploma, and the area boasts a well-educated, active community with average commute times of 28 minutes and low unemployment. The area’s economic stability and high educational attainment contribute to a welcoming, family-oriented environment.
Median Income:
$55,000
Household Income:
$104,500
Family Income:
$112,800
Per Capita Income:
$42,200
Income Male:
$56,800
Income Female:
$47,300
Poverty Rate:
5.7%
Non English Speakers:
8.5%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
4.3%
Public Transport Usage:
1.5%
Commute Time:
28.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.2%
Bachelors or More:
39.1%
Education
How are the schools in Eagle River, AK?
Eagle River offers quality public education with schools like Eagle River High School and Gruening Middle School, known for their community involvement and student support. Private school options and nearby higher education at the University of Alaska Anchorage, just 15 miles away, provide diverse learning opportunities. High educational attainment rates highlight the community’s commitment to academic excellence.
Public Schools
Name:
Eagle River High School
Street:
8701 Yosemite Dr
Phone:
907-742-2700
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.2
Name:
Gruening Middle School
Street:
9601 Lee St
Phone:
907-742-3600
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Private Schools
Name:
St. John's Orthodox Christian School
Street:
18940 Monastery Dr
Phone:
907-696-3920
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
University of Alaska Anchorage
City:
Anchorage
State:
AK
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
11,400
Healthcare
Eagle River residents have convenient access to major hospitals in nearby Anchorage, including Providence Alaska Medical Center and Alaska Regional Hospital, both offering full emergency services. With 2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% health insurance coverage, local healthcare is reliable and comprehensive. The area’s healthcare index of 77.8 suggests services are accessible and meet community needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Providence Alaska Medical Center
Address:
3200 Providence Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508
Phone:
(907) 562-2211
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Alaska Regional Hospital
Address:
2801 Debarr Rd, Anchorage, AK 99508
Phone:
(907) 276-1131
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.5%
Health Care Index:
77.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Eagle River, AK?
The Eagle River housing market is strong, with a median home price of $420,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of 73.1%. Rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $1,650, and the market has seen a steady appreciation rate of 4.2% over the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates reflect a stable, desirable place to live.
Median Home Price:
$420,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Local vehicle and licensing services are managed by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on Centerfield Drive in Eagle River. Residents can access a full range of DMV services both in-person and online. The office provides efficient support for new arrivals needing licenses, registrations, or driving information.
State:
Alaska
Department:
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
16820 Centerfield Dr, Eagle River, AK 99577
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.