Alaska / Prince Wales Ketchikan County

Moving to Ketchikan, AK

Thinking of making a move to Ketchikan, AK? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ketchikan, AK

Considering a move to Ketchikan, AK? This welcoming community of 8,192 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $314,000 and average rents near $1,200. Commute times average 11 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (30% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Ketchikan's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Ketchikan, AK

Ketchikan has a population of 8,192 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 40 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 59% White, % Black, and 8% Asian residents, and over 10% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

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?

The cost of living in Ketchikan is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 129.7. Median home values are around $314,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,200. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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 is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 509 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 38. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Alaska.

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 experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 65°F and cold winters dipping to 29°F. The area receives about 153 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 30% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
29°F
Max
38°F

Summer

Min
50°F
Max
65°F

Spring

Min
36°F
Max
51°F

Fall

Min
40°F
Max
52°F
Average Rainfall Inches
153 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
30%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $67,100 and a low poverty rate of 10.3%. Over 93% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 25% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 11 minutes, and almost 3% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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 offers quality education options, with public schools like Ketchikan High School and Schoenbar Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including University of Alaska Southeast – Ketchikan Campus. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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

Ketchikan residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.1 per 1,000 people and 88.4% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center
Address
3100 Tongass Ave, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Phone
(907) 225-5171
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

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?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $314,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 57%. The market has seen a 3.0% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.1%. Ketchikan offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

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

Residents of Ketchikan handle vehicle services through the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Ketchikan. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Alaska
Department
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
Address
415 Main St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Phone
1-855-269-5551

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.

FAQs About Moving to Ketchikan, AK

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Ketchikan, review the core fields on this page: population 8,192, median home value $314,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,200, commute time 11.3 minutes, and sunny days percentage 30%.

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