Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Tanana, AK
Considering a move to Tanana, AK? This peaceful Yukon River community of around 229 residents offers affordable housing with median home values near $89,000 and average rents at $810. While the cost of groceries and utilities is higher than the national average, Tanana is known for its close-knit, predominantly Alaska Native culture and stunning wilderness surroundings. Commute times are minimal, local schools are small and personal, and you’ll experience dramatic seasonal temperature shifts typical of Alaska’s interior. Healthcare and shopping services are basic, so be ready for a true rural Alaskan experience.
Demographics - Tanana, AK
Demographics - Tanana, AK
Tanana is a small, close-knit community of about 229 people, with a majority Alaska Native population and a median age of 40.5 years. The area has a low population density, and around 13% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The town's cultural makeup and rural setting contribute to its distinctive local character.
Population:
229
Density:
6.4 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.5
Gender Ratio:
109 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
14.5%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
4.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Tanana, AK?
Cost of living in Tanana is above the national average, mainly due to high utility and grocery expenses, while housing remains comparatively affordable with a median home value of $89,000. Rent averages around $810 per month, and residents benefit from zero state income and sales taxes. Overall, everyday essentials can cost more, but housing is a budget-friendly aspect for newcomers.
Median House Value:
$89,000
Gross Rent:
$810
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$220
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
119.0
Grocery:
134.0
Housing:
70.0
Utilities:
180.0
Transportation:
150.0
Health Care:
135.0
Miscellaneous:
120.0
Crime
Is Tanana, AK a safe place to live?
Tanana experiences a moderate crime rate, with property crimes more common than violent offenses. The chance of facing a property crime is about 1 in 45, while violent crime risk is lower at 1 in 285. Residents generally enjoy a sense of safety typical for a small rural town, though taking standard precautions is advised.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
350
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,200
Crime Index:
2,550
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 285
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Tanana, AK year-round?
Tanana’s climate features long, harsh winters with temperatures often plunging below zero, while summers are mild and can reach up to 75°F. Annual rainfall is relatively low at just 11.5 inches, and the area enjoys sunshine about half the year. Dramatic seasonal changes are a hallmark of life in this part of Alaska.
Winter
Min:
-27°F
Max:
-6°F
Spring
Min:
10°F
Max:
45°F
Summer
Min:
45°F
Max:
75°F
Fall
Min:
10°F
Max:
45°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
11.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
Households in Tanana typically earn around $35,000, with a family income of $48,000 and a poverty rate of 27.5%. Most residents drive, with very short average commute times of 7 minutes and no public transportation available. The community values education, as over 80% have completed high school, though college completion is less common.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$35,000
Family Income:
$48,000
Per Capita Income:
$22,000
Income Male:
$28,000
Income Female:
$22,000
Poverty Rate:
27.5%
Non English Speakers:
13.0%
Rent:
$810
Unemployment Rate:
8.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0%
Commute Time:
7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.0%
Bachelors or More:
8.2%
Education
How are the schools in Tanana, AK?
Tanana’s public school is small and personal, serving about 45 students with a low student-teacher ratio of 8.5, fostering a close learning environment. While there are no private schools in town, the University of Alaska Fairbanks, a major regional college, is located approximately 130 miles away. Educational opportunities are focused on K-12 locally, with higher education accessible in nearby cities.
Public Schools
Name:
Tanana School
Street:
1 School Road
Phone:
907-366-7212
Students:
45
Student Teacher Ratio:
8.5
Colleges
Name:
University of Alaska Fairbanks
City:
Fairbanks
State:
AK
Distance:
130 miles
Students:
8,500
Healthcare
Healthcare in Tanana is centered around the Tanana Health Center, which offers primary care but does not provide emergency services. There is approximately one physician available per 1,000 residents, and about 85% of people have health insurance. Residents may need to travel for specialized or emergency care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Tanana Health Center
Address:
Tanana, AK 99777
Phone:
(907) 366-7222
Type:
Primary Care Clinic
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
1.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.0%
Health Care Index:
64.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Tanana, AK?
Tanana’s housing market is marked by affordable prices, with a median home value of $89,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $810. About 63% of homes are owner-occupied, and vacancy rates are moderate, making it relatively easy to find housing. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates offer stability for buyers.
Median Home Price:
$89,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$810
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents in Tanana access vehicle and licensing services through the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles, with the closest office located in Fairbanks. The DMV can be reached at 1-855-269-5551 or through their website for information on registration and licensing. Local services are limited, so planning ahead is recommended.
State:
Alaska
Department:
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3700 Airport Way, 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.