Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ninilchik, AK
Considering a move to Ninilchik, AK? This small community of about 890 residents offers affordable housing (median home price: $221,000) and low average rent, with a slower pace of life and short 20-minute average commutes. With a low violent crime rate (253 per 100K) and access to nature, Ninilchik is perfect for those seeking a tranquil, rural Alaskan lifestyle. Local schools are small and community-focused, while the cost of living is moderate—though utilities and groceries run higher due to the remote location. Be prepared for long winters and plenty of outdoor adventure!
Demographics - Ninilchik, AK
Demographics - Ninilchik, AK
Ninilchik is a small, close-knit community of around 890 people, with a low population density and a median age of 53. The majority of residents are White and Native American, and about 7.5% speak a language other than English at home. This area offers a tranquil, rural atmosphere, ideal for those seeking peace and a slower pace of life.
Population:
890
Density:
11 per sq mi
Median Age:
53.0
Gender Ratio:
110 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
75.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
8.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ninilchik, AK?
The cost of living in Ninilchik is slightly above the national average, with a cost of living index of 109. Housing remains affordable with a median home value of $221,000 and typical rent around $1,050, but residents should expect higher utility and grocery expenses due to the area's remote location. Alaska’s 0% state income tax provides some financial relief for locals.
Median House Value:
$221,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$205
Auto Insurance:
$1,450
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,420
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$465
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
109.0
Grocery:
132.0
Housing:
94.0
Utilities:
155.0
Transportation:
110.0
Health Care:
120.0
Miscellaneous:
105.0
Crime
Is Ninilchik, AK a safe place to live?
Ninilchik has a low violent crime rate of 253 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 1,730 per 100,000, making it a relatively safe place to live. The chance of experiencing property crime is about 1 in 58, while violent crime is less frequent at 1 in 395. This safety profile contributes to the town’s relaxed and secure atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
253
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,730
Crime Index:
1,983
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 395
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 58
Weather
What is the weather like in Ninilchik, AK year-round?
Ninilchik experiences long, cold winters with temperatures often dipping to 8°F, while summers are mild, rarely exceeding 62°F. The area receives about 23 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 38% of the year, creating a climate perfect for those who love outdoor activities and don't mind chilly weather. Seasonal changes are distinct, offering beautiful Alaskan scenery year-round.
Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
27°F
Spring
Min:
27°F
Max:
45°F
Summer
Min:
46°F
Max:
62°F
Fall
Min:
25°F
Max:
44°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
23.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
38%
Neighbors
Residents of Ninilchik report a median household income of $56,000, with about 13% living below the poverty line. The community is highly educated, with nearly 90% holding a high school diploma and 19% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Most households own their homes, and the average commute is a quick 20 minutes, reflecting the town's small size and rural nature.
Median Income:
$34,500
Household Income:
$56,000
Family Income:
$63,000
Per Capita Income:
$29,500
Income Male:
$40,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
7.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
19.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.5%
Bachelors or More:
19.2%
Education
How are the schools in Ninilchik, AK?
Ninilchik offers a small, community-oriented public school with about 160 students and a favorable 12:1 student-teacher ratio, providing a personalized learning environment. While there are no private schools, higher education is accessible through Kenai Peninsula College’s Kachemak Bay Campus, located 40 miles away in Homer. The town’s educational options reflect its rural character and emphasis on close community ties.
Public Schools
Name:
Ninilchik School
Street:
15735 Sterling Hwy
Phone:
907-714-0320
Students:
160
Student Teacher Ratio:
12:1
Colleges
Name:
Kenai Peninsula College – Kachemak Bay Campus
City:
Homer
State:
AK
Distance:
40 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Healthcare in Ninilchik is supported by nearby facilities like South Peninsula Hospital and Central Peninsula Hospital, both offering emergency services. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and 86% health insurance coverage, locals generally have access to essential medical care. The healthcare index of 77 indicates moderate access and affordability for the region.
Major Hospitals
Name:
South Peninsula Hospital
Address:
4300 Bartlett St, Homer, AK 99603
Phone:
(907) 235-8101
Type:
General & Emergency
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Central Peninsula Hospital
Address:
250 Hospital Place, Soldotna, AK 99669
Phone:
(907) 714-4404
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.0%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ninilchik, AK?
Ninilchik's housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $221,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,050. The majority of residents—over 77%—own their homes, and the area sees steady but modest home appreciation each year. Rental vacancy rates are slightly higher than average, giving renters and buyers several options.
Median Home Price:
$221,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Ninilchik residents are served by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles in Soldotna, located at 43335 Kalifornsky Beach Rd. The office offers standard licensing and vehicle services, with information and online resources available on the Alaska DMV website. This regional DMV ensures residents have convenient access to essential transportation services.
State:
Alaska
Department:
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
43335 Kalifornsky Beach Rd, Soldotna, AK 99669
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.