Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Seward, AK
Curious about life in Seward, AK? With a population of about 2,625, this picturesque coastal town offers scenic beauty, a tight-knit community, and a cost of living that's somewhat higher than the U.S. average, with median home prices around $289,000 and rents near $1,100. Residents enjoy short average commutes of just 13 minutes and access to local schools and healthcare. While property crime rates are higher than average, Seward's stunning natural surroundings, cooler summers, and unique Alaskan lifestyle make it a memorable place to call home.
Demographics - Seward, AK
Demographics - Seward, AK
Seward, Alaska is home to around 2,625 residents, with a median age of 39 and a slightly higher proportion of males than females. The community is predominantly White, with about 10% of locals speaking a language other than English at home, reflecting moderate diversity in a small-town setting.
Population:
2,625
Density:
130 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.2
Gender Ratio:
111 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
75.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
3.5%
Others:
20.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Seward, AK?
Living in Seward comes with a higher-than-average cost of living, highlighted by a median home value of $289,000 and monthly rents around $1,100. Utility costs and groceries are also elevated compared to national averages, but Alaska’s lack of state income tax helps offset some expenses.
Median House Value:
$289,000
Gross Rent:
$1,100
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$190
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$500
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
126.0
Grocery:
134.0
Housing:
111.0
Utilities:
163.0
Transportation:
116.0
Health Care:
137.0
Miscellaneous:
120.0
Crime
Is Seward, AK a safe place to live?
Seward experiences higher property crime rates than the national average, with a 1 in 46 chance of being affected, while violent crime occurs at a rate of about 410 incidents per 100,000 residents. Residents should be mindful of safety, particularly regarding property protection, though the overall crime index remains typical for small Alaskan communities.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
410
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,150
Crime Index:
2,560
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 244
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in Seward, AK year-round?
Seward has a cool, maritime climate with mild summers averaging highs in the low 60s and chilly, damp winters where lows dip into the teens. The area sees significant rainfall—over 66 inches annually—and fewer sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate cooler temperatures and lush, coastal environments.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
29°F
Max:
44°F
Summer
Min:
48°F
Max:
63°F
Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
48°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
66.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
38%
Neighbors
Households in Seward enjoy a median income of approximately $66,400, and most residents have completed high school, with nearly 29% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The community features manageable commutes averaging just over 13 minutes, a moderate poverty rate, and a strong sense of local connection.
Median Income:
$35,000
Household Income:
$66,400
Family Income:
$76,100
Per Capita Income:
$29,700
Income Male:
$43,000
Income Female:
$33,000
Poverty Rate:
10.2%
Non English Speakers:
10.5%
Rent:
$1,100
Unemployment Rate:
6.1%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.1%
Bachelors or More:
28.5%
Education
How are the schools in Seward, AK?
Seward offers public education through its elementary, middle, and high schools, all featuring low student-to-teacher ratios that support personalized instruction. Higher education needs are met locally by the Kenai Peninsula College campus, making educational opportunities accessible for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Seward Elementary School
Street:
501 Madison Ave
Phone:
907-224-3356
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Seward Middle School
Street:
304 Sea Lion Ave
Phone:
907-224-9000
Students:
110
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.0
Name:
Seward High School
Street:
2100 Swetmann Ave
Phone:
907-224-9040
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.1
Colleges
Name:
Kenai Peninsula College - Seward Campus
City:
Seward
State:
AK
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
250
Healthcare
Healthcare in Seward is anchored by Providence Seward Medical and Care Center, offering general and emergency services to residents. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people and health insurance coverage for over 86% of the population, basic medical needs are well supported for a small Alaskan town.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Providence Seward Medical and Care Center
Address:
417 First Ave, Seward, AK 99664
Phone:
(907) 224-2828
Type:
General & Critical Access
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.2%
Health Care Index:
78.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Seward, AK?
Seward's housing market is characterized by a median home price of $289,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 55%. Rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $1,100, and the market shows steady value appreciation with low foreclosure and vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$289,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,100
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Seward residents are served by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Wasilla and comprehensive services accessible online. The DMV provides essential licensing, registration, and vehicle services for the community.
State:
Alaska
Department:
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2900 E Parks Hwy, Wasilla, AK 99654
Phone:
(907) 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.