Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Homer, AK
Considering a move to Homer, AK? This vibrant coastal town of 5,709 offers scenic natural beauty, a tight-knit community, and an adventurous lifestyle. With a median home price around $322,000 and average rent of $1,270, housing is more affordable than many Alaskan cities, though groceries and utilities can be higher. Commute times are short (about 14 minutes), schools are well-rated, and you’ll enjoy mild summers, snowy winters, and easy access to outdoor recreation. Crime rates are moderate, and the town’s strong healthcare and education resources make Homer an appealing spot for families, artists, and nature lovers.
Demographics - Homer, AK
Homer, Alaska is a close-knit community of about 5,700 residents, with a median age of 44 and a relatively balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White (nearly 85%), with a notable Native American presence and a small percentage of non-English speakers, reflecting a welcoming and diverse environment. Residents enjoy a moderate population density, fostering both community connection and personal space.
Population:
5,709
Density:
410 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.1
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.7%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
7.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Homer, AK?
Living in Homer comes with a cost of living index moderately above the national average, largely due to higher grocery and utility expenses. The median home value is around $322,000, and average rent is $1,270, while Alaska’s lack of state income tax can help offset some expenses. Residents should budget for increased costs in transportation and healthcare, but overall housing remains relatively accessible.
Median House Value:
$322,000
Gross Rent:
$1,270
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$200
Auto Insurance:
$1,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,780
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$700
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
126.0
Grocery:
133.0
Housing:
116.0
Utilities:
165.0
Transportation:
140.0
Health Care:
135.0
Miscellaneous:
119.0
Crime
Is Homer, AK a safe place to live?
Homer experiences moderate crime rates, with about 256 violent crimes and 2,287 property crimes per 100,000 people annually. The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime is about 1 in 391, while property crime risk is higher at 1 in 44. These figures suggest that, while generally safe, residents should remain vigilant, especially regarding property security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
256
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,287
Crime Index:
2,543
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 391
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 44
Weather
What is the weather like in Homer, AK year-round?
Homer offers mild summers with highs in the low 60s and chilly winters averaging in the upper teens to low 30s. The area receives about 25 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine just 39% of the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate cooler temperatures and a dramatic, coastal climate. The changing seasons provide residents with year-round outdoor recreation opportunities.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
31°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
47°F
Summer
Min:
46°F
Max:
63°F
Fall
Min:
33°F
Max:
48°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
24.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
39%
Neighbors
Local households in Homer earn a median income of $66,300, with around 11% of residents living below the poverty line. Commute times are short, averaging just under 14 minutes, and most residents drive rather than use public transportation. The community is well-educated, with over 94% holding a high school diploma and more than a third attaining a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Median Income:
$41,500
Household Income:
$66,300
Family Income:
$79,600
Per Capita Income:
$34,800
Income Male:
$45,000
Income Female:
$36,400
Poverty Rate:
10.9%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$1,270
Unemployment Rate:
6.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
13.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.1%
Bachelors or More:
34.9%
Education
How are the schools in Homer, AK?
Homer boasts reputable public and private schools, including Homer High School and Paul Banks Elementary, with student-teacher ratios supporting personalized learning. The community also benefits from higher education opportunities at Kachemak Bay Campus, part of Kenai Peninsula College. Education is a strong pillar here, making the city attractive to families and lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
Homer High School
Street:
600 E Fairview Ave
Phone:
907-235-4600
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Name:
Paul Banks Elementary School
Street:
1340 East End Rd
Phone:
907-226-1801
Students:
220
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.0
Private Schools
Name:
Fireweed Academy
Street:
995 Soundview Ave
Phone:
907-235-9728
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Kachemak Bay Campus - Kenai Peninsula College
City:
Homer
State:
AK
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
700
Healthcare
Healthcare in Homer is anchored by South Peninsula Hospital, offering general and emergency services to the community. There are about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, and over 90% of the population has health insurance coverage, ensuring access to essential medical care. The area’s healthcare index reflects reliable medical services for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
South Peninsula Hospital
Address:
4300 Bartlett St, Homer, AK 99603
Phone:
(907) 235-8101
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.7%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Homer, AK?
Homer's housing market is relatively stable, with a median home price of $322,000 and a steady home appreciation rate of 3.2% over the past year. Most homes are owner-occupied, and rental options are available with an average two-bedroom rent of $1,270. The market sees low vacancy and foreclosure rates, making it appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$322,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,270
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Homer residents can access vehicle and licensing services at the local Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles branch conveniently located on Homer Spit Road. The DMV offers a full range of services for drivers and vehicle owners, with additional information available through the state DMV website. This ensures easy access for both new arrivals and long-term residents.
State:
Alaska
Department:
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3851 Homer Spit Rd, Homer, AK 99603
Phone:
(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.