Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Skagway, AK
Considering a move to Skagway, AK? This charming small city of about 1,240 residents offers affordable housing with median home prices around $315,000 and average rents near $1,150. Skagway boasts a short average commute of just 7.5 minutes, low violent crime rates (120 per 100K), and a close-knit community. While groceries and healthcare costs are higher than the national average, residents enjoy spectacular scenery, a slower pace, and access to quality local schools. Discover Skagway’s unique blend of outdoor adventure, small-town safety, and Alaskan hospitality.
Demographics - Skagway, AK
Demographics - Skagway, AK
Skagway is a small Alaskan city with a population of around 1,240 people, marked by a median age of 44.6 and a slightly higher number of males than females. The community is predominantly White, with a meaningful Native American presence, and most residents are English speakers. Its low population density fosters a peaceful, close-knit atmosphere ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Population:
1,240
Density:
2.2 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.6
Gender Ratio:
113 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
83.6%
Asian:
1.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Skagway, AK?
The cost of living in Skagway is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 128 and groceries notably above average. Median home values are about $315,000, and typical rents average $1,150 per month. While utilities and healthcare are also more expensive, residents benefit from Alaska's 0% state income and sales tax.
Median House Value:
$315,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$180
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,640
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$675
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
128
Grocery:
142
Housing:
110
Utilities:
134
Transportation:
115
Health Care:
132
Miscellaneous:
120
Crime
Is Skagway, AK a safe place to live?
Skagway enjoys a low violent crime rate of 120 per 100,000 residents, making it a generally safe place to live. Property crime is more common, with a chance of 1 in 69, but overall safety remains a draw for families and retirees. Residents appreciate the peace of mind that comes with living in a small, close-knit community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,450
Crime Index:
1,570
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 833
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 69
Weather
What is the weather like in Skagway, AK year-round?
Skagway experiences cool, temperate weather year-round, with summer highs reaching 65°F and winter lows dipping to 15°F. The city receives about 26 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunny conditions roughly 30% of the time. Residents should be prepared for chilly temperatures and frequent overcast days, but also enjoy the distinct beauty of Alaskan seasons.

Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
28°F

Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
45°F

Summer
Min:
45°F
Max:
65°F

Fall
Min:
25°F
Max:
44°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
26 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
30%
Neighbors
The typical Skagway household earns about $76,000, with a per capita income of $38,000 and a modest poverty rate of 7.2%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and commutes are exceptionally short at just 7.5 minutes on average. The community values education and enjoys a relaxed, small-town pace of life.
Median Income:
$37,000
Household Income:
$76,000
Family Income:
$86,000
Per Capita Income:
$38,000
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$33,000
Poverty Rate:
7.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.2%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
7.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
94.1%
Bachelors or More:
35.5%
Education
How are the schools in Skagway, AK?
Skagway offers quality public education through its local school, which serves about 133 students with a favorable student-teacher ratio of 9.8. Although there are no private schools in town, higher education opportunities are available within 95 miles at the University of Alaska Southeast in Juneau. The community's commitment to education is reflected in high graduation and college attendance rates.

Public Schools
Name:
Skagway School
Street:
156 3rd Avenue
Phone:
907-983-2960
Students:
133
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.8

Colleges
Name:
University of Alaska Southeast (Juneau Campus)
City:
Juneau
State:
AK
Distance:
95 miles
Students:
3,100
Healthcare
Healthcare in Skagway is anchored by the local medical clinic, offering both primary care and emergency services, with additional hospital care available in nearby Juneau. About 90% of residents have health insurance, and there are 1.4 physicians per 1,000 people. While healthcare costs are above average, residents have reliable access to essential services.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Skagway Medical Clinic
Address:
903 State St, Skagway, AK 99840
Phone:
(907) 983-2255
Type:
Primary Care & Emergency
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Bartlett Regional Hospital
Address:
3260 Hospital Dr, Juneau, AK 99801
Phone:
(907) 796-8900
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.8%
Health Care Index:
72
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Skagway, AK?
The housing market in Skagway features a median home price of $315,000 and average rents of $1,150 for a two-bedroom unit. With a high owner-occupancy rate of 73% and a low rental vacancy rate, the market is stable and competitive. Home values have appreciated modestly in recent years, reflecting steady demand in this desirable small city.
Median Home Price:
$315,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing services for Skagway are managed by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest main office located in Anchorage. Residents can access DMV resources, forms, and contact information online or by phone. The DMV provides essential services for drivers and vehicle owners throughout Alaska.
State:
Alaska
Department:
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1300 W Benson Blvd, Suite 100, Anchorage, AK 99503
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.