Everything You Should Know Before Moving to North Pole, AK
Considering a move to North Pole, AK? This small community of 2,243 residents offers affordable home prices around $238,000 and average rents near $1,350, making it budget-friendly for Alaska. Winters are long and cold (as low as -25°F), but you'll experience a tight-knit community and scenic surroundings. Commute times are short at 23.7 minutes, schools are well-rated, and while property crime is above average, the town’s charm and unique holiday spirit are its standout features. Explore the data below to see if North Pole is your new home!
Demographics - North Pole, AK
Demographics - North Pole, AK
North Pole, AK is home to about 2,243 residents, with a young median age of 31.8 and a slightly higher number of males than females. The city is predominantly White, but also features a mix of other ethnic backgrounds, and about 6.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The community offers a small-town feel with moderate population density.
Population:
2,243
Density:
410 per sq mi
Median Age:
31.8
Gender Ratio:
106 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
77.0%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
1.9%
Others:
19.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in North Pole, AK?
Living in North Pole is relatively affordable for Alaska, with median home values around $238,000 and average rent at $1,350 per month. Utilities tend to be higher than the national average, but state taxes are nonexistent, which helps balance the cost. The overall cost of living index is moderately above the national average, reflecting higher expenses in groceries and healthcare.
Median House Value:
$238,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$215
Auto Insurance:
$1,330
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,575
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$525
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
109.5
Grocery:
124.0
Housing:
92.0
Utilities:
180.0
Transportation:
117.0
Health Care:
140.0
Miscellaneous:
110.0
Crime
Is North Pole, AK a safe place to live?
While North Pole has a strong community atmosphere, property crime is higher than average, with a 1 in 33 chance of experiencing property crime and a 1 in 172 chance for violent crime. Residents should take standard precautions, but many find the town’s welcoming spirit outweighs these concerns. The overall crime index remains a consideration for newcomers.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
579
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,006
Crime Index:
3,585
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 172
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 33
Weather
What is the weather like in North Pole, AK year-round?
North Pole experiences long, cold winters with temperatures dipping to -25°F, while summers are mild, peaking around 75°F. The city receives about 12 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine roughly 42% of the year. Seasonal changes are pronounced, offering a true taste of Alaska’s climate.
Winter
Min:
-25°F
Max:
0°F
Spring
Min:
10°F
Max:
45°F
Summer
Min:
50°F
Max:
75°F
Fall
Min:
10°F
Max:
40°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
12.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
42%
Neighbors
Households in North Pole enjoy a median income of $78,750 and a family income of $90,200, with a poverty rate of just 7.1%. Most residents commute about 24 minutes to work, and nearly all adults have completed high school. The community is close-knit, with a low rate of public transportation use and a moderate unemployment rate.
Median Income:
$37,000
Household Income:
$78,750
Family Income:
$90,200
Per Capita Income:
$33,800
Income Male:
$44,600
Income Female:
$34,500
Poverty Rate:
7.1%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
23.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.2%
Bachelors or More:
19.4%
Education
How are the schools in North Pole, AK?
North Pole offers a range of educational opportunities, including well-rated public schools with reasonable class sizes and a local private school option. For higher education, the University of Alaska Fairbanks is just 15 miles away. Families benefit from strong educational resources in the area.
Public Schools
Name:
North Pole Elementary School
Street:
203 Beaver Blvd
Phone:
907-488-2271
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6
Name:
North Pole Middle School
Street:
300 E 8th Ave
Phone:
907-488-2271
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Name:
North Pole High School
Street:
601 NPHS Blvd
Phone:
907-488-3761
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.4
Private Schools
Name:
North Pole Christian School
Street:
P.O. Box 56570
Phone:
907-488-9182
Students:
60
Colleges
Name:
University of Alaska Fairbanks
City:
Fairbanks
State:
AK
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
7,400
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, including Fairbanks Memorial Hospital just a short drive away. There are about 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 90% of residents have health insurance coverage. The area offers solid healthcare services, supporting a healthy lifestyle for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Fairbanks Memorial Hospital
Address:
1650 Cowles St, Fairbanks, AK 99701
Phone:
(907) 452-8181
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.2%
Health Care Index:
70.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in North Pole, AK?
North Pole’s housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $238,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 66%. Home values have appreciated by over 5% in the past year, and rental options remain available with a moderate vacancy rate. The market is stable, making it appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$238,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
65.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles in nearby Fairbanks, offering a convenient location for license and vehicle needs. Residents can access services in person, by phone, or online. The DMV ensures easy access for North Pole drivers.
State:
Alaska
Department:
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1979 Peger Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709
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.