Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fort Richardson, AK
Considering a move to Fort Richardson, AK? With a population of around 5,400, this military-focused community offers affordable homes with a median price of $312,000 and average 2-bedroom rents of $1,850. Enjoy a short average commute of 21.5 minutes, access to quality public schools, and proximity to Anchorage’s major hospitals. The cost of living is higher than the national average, but the area’s low state taxes, rugged natural beauty, and cool summers make it uniquely Alaskan. Review the stats below to see if Fort Richardson is the right fit for your next adventure!
Demographics - Fort Richardson, AK
Demographics - Fort Richardson, AK
Fort Richardson has a youthful population of about 5,400, with a median age of 24.8 and a notable male majority due to its military roots. The community is diverse, with 62% White, 13% Black, and over 22% identifying as other ethnicities. Around 10% of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting a mix of backgrounds.
Population:
5,418
Density:
462 per sq mi
Median Age:
24.8
Gender Ratio:
150 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
62.0%
Black:
13.0%
Asian:
2.8%
Others:
22.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fort Richardson, AK?
The cost of living in Fort Richardson is 30% above the national average, primarily due to higher prices for groceries, utilities, and housing. The median home value is $312,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom is $1,850, but residents benefit from no state income or sales taxes. While monthly expenses can be high, the area offers the unique advantages of Alaskan living.
Median House Value:
$312,000
Gross Rent:
$1,850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$210
Auto Insurance:
$1,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$620
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
130.0
Grocery:
135.0
Housing:
120.0
Utilities:
140.0
Transportation:
125.0
Health Care:
125.0
Miscellaneous:
120.0
Crime
Is Fort Richardson, AK a safe place to live?
Fort Richardson experiences moderate crime rates, with about 388 violent crimes and 2,420 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is roughly 1 in 257, while property crime risk is 1 in 41. These figures are in line with other small Alaskan communities, so it's important to stay aware but not unduly concerned.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
388
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,420
Crime Index:
2,808
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 257
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 41
Weather
What is the weather like in Fort Richardson, AK year-round?
Residents enjoy cool summers with highs around 70°F and brisk winters dipping to 5°F, along with about 16.6 inches of annual rainfall. Only 40% of days are sunny, so expect cloudy skies for much of the year. The climate is typical for Alaska, with distinct seasonal changes and a refreshing outdoor environment.
Winter
Min:
5°F
Max:
23°F
Spring
Min:
25°F
Max:
46°F
Summer
Min:
48°F
Max:
70°F
Fall
Min:
22°F
Max:
46°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
16.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
40%
Neighbors
Households in Fort Richardson have a median income of $66,700, and the area maintains a low poverty rate of 7.7%. Most adults have a high school education or higher, and average commute times are just over 21 minutes. The community is close-knit and largely employed, with a moderate unemployment rate and a small percentage using public transit.
Median Income:
$45,000
Household Income:
$66,700
Family Income:
$71,500
Per Capita Income:
$24,700
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$34,000
Poverty Rate:
7.7%
Non English Speakers:
10.5%
Rent:
$1,850
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.0%
Commute Time:
21.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.2%
Bachelors or More:
24.6%
Education
How are the schools in Fort Richardson, AK?
Families in Fort Richardson benefit from quality public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, such as Orion Elementary and Gruening Middle School. Private and higher education options are also nearby, with Anchorage Christian Schools and the University of Alaska Anchorage within easy commuting distance. The area's strong educational resources make it suitable for both military and civilian families.
Public Schools
Name:
Orion Elementary School
Street:
6363 Arctic Warrior Dr
Phone:
907-428-7300
Students:
380
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Gruening Middle School
Street:
9601 Lee St
Phone:
907-742-3600
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Private Schools
Name:
Anchorage Christian Schools
Street:
6575 E Northern Lights Blvd
Phone:
907-337-9575
Students:
450
Colleges
Name:
University of Alaska Anchorage
City:
Anchorage
State:
AK
Distance:
11 miles
Students:
13,000
Name:
Alaska Pacific University
City:
Anchorage
State:
AK
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
530
Healthcare
Residents have convenient access to both military and civilian healthcare, including the on-base Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Hospital and Anchorage's major medical centers. With 2.4 physicians per 1,000 people and 91% health insurance coverage, healthcare services are readily available for most needs. Emergency care is nearby, making it a reassuring place for families and military personnel.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Hospital
Address:
5955 Zeamer Ave, JBER, AK 99506
Phone:
(907) 580-2778
Type:
Military/General
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Providence Alaska Medical Center
Address:
3200 Providence Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508
Phone:
(907) 562-2211
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fort Richardson, AK?
Fort Richardson's housing market offers a median home price of $312,000, with owner-occupied homes making up about 32% of the market. Rental options are plentiful, with an average two-bedroom rent at $1,850 and a vacancy rate below 6%. Home values have appreciated modestly over the past year, and foreclosure rates remain low.
Median Home Price:
$312,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,850
Owner Occupied Rate:
31.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Anchorage just a short drive from Fort Richardson. Residents can handle licensing, registration, and other vehicle needs either in person or online. For more details, visit the Alaska DMV website or call their toll-free number.
State:
Alaska
Department:
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3901 Old Seward Hwy, Suite 101, Anchorage, AK 99503
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.