Alaska / Matanuska Susitna County

Moving to Palmer, AK

Thinking of making a move to Palmer, 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 Palmer, AK

Considering a move to Palmer, AK? This welcoming community of 6,094 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $294,000 and average rents near $1,190. Commute times average 29 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (58% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Palmer's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Palmer, AK

Palmer has a population of 6,094 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 34 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 80% White, 1% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 6% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
6,094
Density
1,166 per sq mi
Median Age
34.1
Gender Ratio
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
5.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
80.1%
Black
0.7%
Asian
1.2%
Others
8.4%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Palmer, AK?

The cost of living in Palmer is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 123.7. Median home values are around $294,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,190. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$294,000
Gross Rent
$1,190
Monthly Electricity Charges
$210
Auto Insurance
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,820
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$480
State Taxes
Low: 0%| High: 0%
Cost Of Living Index
123.7
Grocery
135.0
Housing
108.0
Utilities
158.0
Transportation
125.0
Health Care
142.0
Miscellaneous
120.0

Crime

Is Palmer, AK a safe place to live?

Palmer is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 341 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 44. 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
341
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,250
Crime Index
2,591
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 293
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 44

Weather

What is the weather like in Palmer, AK year-round?

Palmer experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 70°F and cold winters dipping to 7°F. The area receives about 14 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 58% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
7°F
Max
23°F

Summer

Min
48°F
Max
70°F

Spring

Min
25°F
Max
45°F

Fall

Min
25°F
Max
50°F
Average Rainfall Inches
13.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
58%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $67,400 and a low poverty rate of 10.7%. Over 95% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 23% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 29 minutes, and almost 0% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$35,600
Household Income
$67,400
Family Income
$76,500
Per Capita Income
$28,800
Income Male
$41,200
Income Female
$36,800
Poverty Rate
10.7%
Non English Speakers
5.5%
Rent
$1,190
Unemployment Rate
6.9%
Public Transport Usage
0.4%
Commute Time
29.3 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
94.5%
Bachelors or More
23.2%

Education

How are the schools in Palmer, AK?

Palmer offers quality education options, with public schools like Palmer High School and Sherrod Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including University of Alaska Anchorage – Matanuska-Susitna College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Palmer High School
Street
1170 W Arctic Ave
Phone
907-746-8400
Students
700
Student Teacher Ratio
18.2
Name
Sherrod Elementary School
Street
561 N Gulkana St
Phone
907-761-4100
Students
400
Student Teacher Ratio
15.7

Private Schools

Name
Pioneer Peak Elementary Homeschool
Street
4700 E Palmer-Wasilla Hwy
Phone
907-861-5300
Students
110

Colleges

Name
University of Alaska Anchorage – Matanuska-Susitna College
City
Palmer
State
AK
Distance
2 miles
Students
1,400

Healthcare

Palmer residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Mat-Su Regional Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.3 per 1,000 people and 89.5% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Mat-Su Regional Medical Center
Address
2500 S Woodworth Loop, Palmer, AK 99645
Phone
(907) 861-6000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.3
Health Insurance Coverage
89.5%
Health Care Index
68.0

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Palmer, AK?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $294,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 61%. The market has seen a 3.1% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.5%. Palmer offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$294,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,190
Owner Occupied Rate
61.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
3.1%
New Construction Rate
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate
0.6%

DMV Information

Residents of Palmer handle vehicle services through the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Wasilla. 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
101 W Swanson Ave #103, Wasilla, AK 99654
Phone
(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 Palmer, AK

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

Before moving to Palmer, review the core fields on this page: population 6,094, median home value $294,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,190, commute time 29.3 minutes, and sunny days percentage 58%.

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