Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ketchikan, AK
Considering a move to Ketchikan, AK? With a close-knit population of 8,192 and a median home price around $314,000, Ketchikan offers affordable living compared to many Alaskan communities. The city enjoys short commute times (averaging 11 minutes), low property taxes, and strong public schools. Expect a mild, maritime climate with heavy rainfall, and be aware that crime rates are above the national average. Ketchikan’s unique blend of small-town feel, natural beauty, and rich Alaska Native heritage make it an intriguing destination for new residents.
Demographics - Ketchikan, AK
Demographics - Ketchikan, AK
Ketchikan is home to just over 8,100 residents, with a median age of 40 and a slightly higher number of males than females. The population is diverse, featuring a significant Alaska Native community alongside White, Asian, and other ethnic groups. About 10% of residents speak a language other than English at home, contributing to the city’s multicultural character.
Population:
8,192
Density:
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.3
Gender Ratio:
106 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
58.7%
Asian:
7.5%
Others:
16.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ketchikan, AK?
Living in Ketchikan comes with a cost of living index of 129.7, which is higher than the national average, driven by elevated grocery and utility prices. The median home value is around $314,000, and average monthly rent for a two-bedroom is $1,200. Residents benefit from Alaska's 0% state income tax, but should plan for higher day-to-day expenses.
Median House Value:
$314,000
Gross Rent:
$1,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$165
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,550
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$475
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
129.7
Grocery:
138.0
Housing:
122.0
Utilities:
158.0
Transportation:
130.0
Health Care:
134.0
Miscellaneous:
117.0
Crime
Is Ketchikan, AK a safe place to live?
Ketchikan experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a violent crime rate of 509 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 38 chance of property crime. While many residents enjoy a close-knit community, new arrivals should stay aware of local safety trends and take standard precautions. Understanding neighborhood dynamics can help ensure a positive experience.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
509
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,620
Crime Index:
3,129
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 196
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 38
Weather
What is the weather like in Ketchikan, AK year-round?
Ketchikan’s climate is mild but very wet, with annual rainfall averaging 153 inches and only 30% of days considered sunny. Winters are cool but not severe, with temperatures typically ranging from 29°F to 38°F, while summers are comfortable with highs around 65°F. Residents should be prepared for frequent rain and a lush, green landscape.
Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
51°F
Summer
Min:
50°F
Max:
65°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
52°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
153 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
30%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $67,100 and a family income of $79,400, with about 10% living below the poverty line. Commute times are short—averaging just over 11 minutes—making it easy to access local amenities. Most adults have completed high school, and about a quarter hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Median Income:
$37,200
Household Income:
$67,100
Family Income:
$79,400
Per Capita Income:
$32,400
Income Male:
$46,500
Income Female:
$36,100
Poverty Rate:
10.3%
Non English Speakers:
10.4%
Rent:
$1,200
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
2.7%
Commute Time:
11.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.9%
Bachelors or More:
24.6%
Education
How are the schools in Ketchikan, AK?
Ketchikan provides strong educational opportunities, featuring public schools like Ketchikan High School and Schoenbar Middle School with favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private education and a local University of Alaska Southeast campus, supporting both K-12 and higher education options. These resources make the city appealing for families and lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
Ketchikan High School
Street:
2610 4th Ave
Phone:
907-225-9815
Students:
560
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Name:
Schoenbar Middle School
Street:
217 Schoenbar Rd
Phone:
907-225-2412
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Private Schools
Name:
Holy Name Catholic School
Street:
433 Jackson St
Phone:
907-225-1122
Students:
70
Colleges
Name:
University of Alaska Southeast – Ketchikan Campus
City:
Ketchikan
State:
AK
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
650
Healthcare
Residents have access to PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center, which provides general, surgical, and emergency services. The city offers a good physician-to-population ratio and nearly 90% of residents have health insurance coverage. Ketchikan’s healthcare index suggests most basic needs are well served within city limits.
Major Hospitals
Name:
PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center
Address:
3100 Tongass Ave, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Phone:
(907) 225-5171
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.4%
Health Care Index:
82.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ketchikan, AK?
Ketchikan’s housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $314,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of about 57%. Rental options are available, with an average two-bedroom apartment renting for $1,200, and the rental vacancy rate is moderate. Modest annual home appreciation and low foreclosure rates indicate a stable real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$314,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.0%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Ketchikan are managed by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles, located conveniently on Main Street. Residents can find assistance with licensing, registration, and other DMV needs either in person or online. The office offers standard DMV services for both new arrivals and long-term residents.
State:
Alaska
Department:
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
415 Main St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
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.