The Zillow Home Value Index shows that while much of Alaska has seen rising home prices, a few towns still offer real affordability. These 16 communities have the lowest average home values in the state, making them rare exceptions in a place known for its high costs and remote living. Whether you’re looking to move or just daydreaming about a life off the grid, these towns prove you don’t need deep pockets to own a piece of Alaska.
16. Barrow – 91% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $163,216
- 2017: $154,624 (-$8,592, -5.26% from previous year)
- 2018: $175,968 (+$21,344, +13.80% from previous year)
- 2019: $220,358 (+$44,390, +25.23% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $254,307
- 2022: $270,988 (+$16,681, +6.56% from previous year)
- 2023: $276,671 (+$5,683, +2.10% from previous year)
- 2024: $280,386 (+$3,715, +1.34% from previous year)
- 2025: $311,165 (+$30,779, +10.98% from previous year)
Since 2016, Barrow’s home values have risen by 91%, with the biggest jumps occurring between 2018 and 2019. While prices are trending upward, they remain relatively low compared to much of Alaska. The 2025 average of $311,165 places Barrow on the more affordable end of the state’s market.
Barrow – Remote Living in the Arctic Circle
Barrow, officially known as Utqiaġvik, is Alaska’s northernmost community and lies well above the Arctic Circle. Despite its isolation, it’s home to around 4,500 residents and serves as a hub for Arctic research and native Iñupiat culture. Long winters, extreme weather, and limited accessibility help keep housing demand in check.
The region’s housing stock reflects its utilitarian needs and logistical challenges. Recent infrastructure investments have added value, but the local economy and remoteness continue to keep home prices modest by statewide standards.
15. Diamond Ridge – 68% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $180,551
- 2011: $182,861 (+$2,310, +1.28% from previous year)
- 2012: $183,338 (+$477, +0.26% from previous year)
- 2013: $191,516 (+$8,179, +4.46% from previous year)
- 2014: $198,060 (+$6,543, +3.42% from previous year)
- 2015: $204,837 (+$6,777, +3.42% from previous year)
- 2016: $210,369 (+$5,532, +2.70% from previous year)
- 2017: $210,631 (+$262, +0.12% from previous year)
- 2018: $219,097 (+$8,466, +4.02% from previous year)
- 2019: $238,148 (+$19,051, +8.70% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $280,878
- 2022: $304,942 (+$24,064, +8.57% from previous year)
- 2023: $301,589 (-$3,353, -1.10% from previous year)
- 2024: $305,024 (+$3,435, +1.14% from previous year)
- 2025: $303,982 (-$1,042, -0.34% from previous year)
Home prices in Diamond Ridge have grown steadily since 2010, reaching $303,982 in 2025—a 68% increase over 15 years. Growth has slowed recently, with slight dips in 2023 and 2025, but values remain significantly lower than statewide averages.
Diamond Ridge – Affordable Living with Scenic Views
Located near Homer on Alaska’s southern coast, Diamond Ridge offers panoramic views of Kachemak Bay and the Kenai Mountains. Its appeal lies in its mix of remote tranquility and proximity to services in Homer, just a short drive away.
The area has attracted retirees and outdoor enthusiasts, contributing to modest but consistent home price appreciation. Despite its natural beauty, property here remains surprisingly affordable thanks to limited development and a small population base.
14. Fairbanks – 33% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $217,754
- 2011: $218,842 (+$1,089, +0.50% from previous year)
- 2012: $217,994 (-$849, -0.39% from previous year)
- 2013: $218,246 (+$252, +0.12% from previous year)
- 2014: $214,998 (-$3,248, -1.49% from previous year)
- 2015: $216,353 (+$1,355, +0.63% from previous year)
- 2016: $225,215 (+$8,862, +4.10% from previous year)
- 2017: $232,886 (+$7,671, +3.41% from previous year)
- 2018: $244,745 (+$11,860, +5.09% from previous year)
- 2019: $253,242 (+$8,497, +3.47% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $270,454
- 2022: $285,872 (+$15,419, +5.70% from previous year)
- 2023: $284,160 (-$1,712, -0.60% from previous year)
- 2024: $289,644 (+$5,483, +1.93% from previous year)
- 2025: $289,834 (+$190, +0.07% from previous year)
Fairbanks has seen steady price gains over the past decade, with a 33% increase since 2010. While growth has plateaued in recent years, the average home value remains under $290,000, keeping it affordable by national standards.
Fairbanks – Urban Amenities at a Low Cost
Fairbanks is Alaska’s second-largest city and a key hub for interior Alaska. It boasts a university, regional hospital, and a thriving tourism industry driven by aurora chasers and cruise extensions. Despite these draws, real estate prices remain relatively modest.
Its colder climate and remote interior location may deter some buyers, but for those who stay, Fairbanks offers a full-service city experience with a small-town cost of living.
13. Saxman – 61% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: $175,346
- 2013: $178,566 (+$3,220, +1.84% from previous year)
- 2014: $182,926 (+$4,360, +2.44% from previous year)
- 2015: $205,473 (+$22,548, +12.33% from previous year)
- 2016: $210,415 (+$4,942, +2.41% from previous year)
- 2017: $218,340 (+$7,925, +3.77% from previous year)
- 2018: $229,730 (+$11,389, +5.22% from previous year)
- 2019: $236,752 (+$7,022, +3.06% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $266,777
- 2022: $283,264 (+$16,488, +6.18% from previous year)
- 2023: $287,859 (+$4,594, +1.62% from previous year)
- 2024: $282,214 (-$5,644, -1.96% from previous year)
- 2025: $282,056 (-$158, -0.06% from previous year)
Saxman’s home values have grown 61% since 2012, with prices stabilizing just above $282,000 in 2025. The market experienced modest dips in 2024 and 2025 but remains more affordable than most Southeast Alaska towns.
Saxman – Cultural Heritage Meets Affordability
Located near Ketchikan, Saxman is home to a large number of Tlingit people and is known for its collection of totem poles and heritage sites. Its economy is closely tied to Ketchikan’s, but homes in Saxman typically cost less than those in the city.
The area attracts buyers looking for cultural richness and access to Southeast Alaska’s rainforest environment—without paying top dollar. Its affordability and proximity to larger town infrastructure make it a practical choice.
12. Kasilof – 65% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $161,556
- 2011: $161,779 (+$223, +0.14% from previous year)
- 2012: $162,966 (+$1,186, +0.73% from previous year)
- 2013: $165,713 (+$2,747, +1.69% from previous year)
- 2014: $166,490 (+$777, +0.47% from previous year)
- 2015: $175,360 (+$8,870, +5.33% from previous year)
- 2016: $189,288 (+$13,928, +7.94% from previous year)
- 2017: $192,962 (+$3,674, +1.94% from previous year)
- 2018: $197,623 (+$4,661, +2.42% from previous year)
- 2019: $214,193 (+$16,570, +8.38% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $249,515
- 2022: $276,428 (+$26,913, +10.79% from previous year)
- 2023: $273,251 (-$3,177, -1.15% from previous year)
- 2024: $269,655 (-$3,596, -1.32% from previous year)
- 2025: $267,509 (-$2,146, -0.80% from previous year)
Home values in Kasilof have risen steadily over the years, with a 65% increase since 2010. Though the last few years have seen minor dips, the overall trend remains upward, landing at $267,509 in 2025.
Kasilof – Riverside Living on the Kenai Peninsula
Kasilof is a small riverside community on the Kenai Peninsula, well known among locals for salmon fishing and rural charm. It’s less developed than nearby Soldotna or Kenai, which helps keep property values low.
Its affordability makes it popular with seasonal residents, retirees, and anyone looking to build on larger parcels without breaking the bank. Accessibility via the Sterling Highway helps maintain its appeal despite limited amenities.
11. Sutton – 49% Home Price Increase Since 2018
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $178,358
- 2019: $192,215 (+$13,856, +7.77% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $228,830
- 2022: $236,855 (+$8,024, +3.51% from previous year)
- 2023: $249,124 (+$12,269, +5.18% from previous year)
- 2024: $255,878 (+$6,754, +2.71% from previous year)
- 2025: $266,491 (+$10,613, +4.15% from previous year)
Sutton’s home prices have grown nearly 49% since 2018, landing at $266,491 in 2025. While modest compared to major metro areas, that increase reflects steady interest in this quiet community near the Matanuska River.
Sutton – Rural Charm in the Matanuska Valley
Located northeast of Palmer, Sutton sits along the Glenn Highway and serves as a gateway to the Matanuska Glacier. The town blends dramatic mountain views with a distinctly rural lifestyle, making it appealing to those looking for space and solitude.
With limited commercial development and access to outdoor recreation, Sutton has seen a slow but steady climb in home values. Still, its affordability remains a strong draw, especially for buyers priced out of nearby Wasilla or Palmer.
10. Seldovia – 45% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: $181,390
- 2013: $183,351 (+$1,961, +1.08% from previous year)
- 2014: $180,054 (-$3,296, -1.80% from previous year)
- 2015: $186,169 (+$6,115, +3.40% from previous year)
- 2016: $196,413 (+$10,244, +5.50% from previous year)
- 2017: $189,748 (-$6,666, -3.39% from previous year)
- 2018: $194,235 (+$4,487, +2.36% from previous year)
- 2019: $204,955 (+$10,720, +5.52% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $238,201
- 2022: $262,075 (+$23,874, +10.02% from previous year)
- 2023: $260,249 (-$1,827, -0.70% from previous year)
- 2024: $257,197 (-$3,051, -1.17% from previous year)
- 2025: $262,981 (+$5,784, +2.25% from previous year)
Seldovia’s home values have risen by 45% since 2012, peaking at $262,981 in 2025. Though the market saw a few down years, prices are generally on an upward trend in this picturesque community.
Seldovia – Remote Access and Coastal Views
Accessible only by boat or plane, Seldovia sits across Kachemak Bay from Homer. This coastal town is home to just a few hundred residents and offers stunning scenery, a historic boardwalk, and quiet living far from Alaska’s busier centers.
Its remote access limits large-scale development, which has helped keep home values relatively low. However, scenic surroundings and increased interest from second-home buyers have driven steady long-term gains.
9. Moose Pass – 79% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: $145,654
- 2013: $145,473 (-$180, -0.12% from previous year)
- 2014: $149,361 (+$3,888, +2.67% from previous year)
- 2015: $157,921 (+$8,560, +5.73% from previous year)
- 2016: $174,664 (+$16,743, +10.60% from previous year)
- 2017: $181,284 (+$6,620, +3.79% from previous year)
- 2018: $187,107 (+$5,823, +3.21% from previous year)
- 2019: $203,992 (+$16,885, +9.02% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $238,834
- 2022: $261,000 (+$22,165, +9.28% from previous year)
- 2023: $256,114 (-$4,886, -1.87% from previous year)
- 2024: $257,413 (+$1,300, +0.51% from previous year)
- 2025: $260,664 (+$3,251, +1.26% from previous year)
Home values in Moose Pass have climbed nearly 80% since 2012, reaching $260,664 by 2025. The pace of growth has cooled in recent years, but the long-term trend remains strong.
Moose Pass – Peaceful Mountainside Living
Moose Pass is a small community located along the Seward Highway, surrounded by the Chugach National Forest. Its location near both Seward and Cooper Landing makes it a quiet but accessible option for those who want nature and solitude.
Homes here remain more affordable than in popular resort areas nearby, despite increasing interest from seasonal residents and travelers who fall in love with the scenery. Its serene setting continues to attract buyers looking for rustic charm.
8. Talkeetna – 52% Home Price Increase Since 2018
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $165,846
- 2019: $177,734 (+$11,889, +7.17% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $228,050
- 2022: $234,509 (+$6,459, +2.83% from previous year)
- 2023: $248,913 (+$14,404, +6.14% from previous year)
- 2024: $251,023 (+$2,110, +0.85% from previous year)
- 2025: $251,879 (+$856, +0.34% from previous year)
Since 2018, home prices in Talkeetna have grown by 52%, reflecting rising interest in this quirky town. As of 2025, the average home value stands at $251,879, making it one of the most affordable options within reach of the Anchorage metro region.
Talkeetna – Small-Town Quirk with Mountain Views
code poet, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Talkeetna sits at the confluence of three rivers and offers views of Denali on clear days. Known for its offbeat charm and tourism appeal, the town draws visitors year-round but still maintains a small population and low home prices.
Real estate here has seen growing demand, but the market remains approachable for those seeking a blend of outdoor adventure and creative community energy. Its proximity to hiking, flightseeing, and fishing keeps demand steady without significant spikes.
7. Willow – 75% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: $135,589
- 2013: $148,401 (+$12,812, +9.45% from previous year)
- 2014: $152,585 (+$4,183, +2.82% from previous year)
- 2015: $173,772 (+$21,187, +13.89% from previous year)
- 2016: $179,168 (+$5,396, +3.11% from previous year)
- 2017: $177,728 (-$1,440, -0.80% from previous year)
- 2018: $175,873 (-$1,855, -1.04% from previous year)
- 2019: $187,188 (+$11,314, +6.43% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $227,247
- 2022: $228,245 (+$999, +0.44% from previous year)
- 2023: $235,250 (+$7,004, +3.07% from previous year)
- 2024: $236,110 (+$860, +0.37% from previous year)
- 2025: $237,667 (+$1,557, +0.66% from previous year)
Willow’s housing market has increased by 75% since 2012, hitting $237,667 in 2025. Despite strong early gains, recent years have shown a leveling off, keeping the town in affordable territory.
Willow – Wooded Privacy with Road Access
Located along the Parks Highway north of Wasilla, Willow is popular with dog mushers, cabin owners, and weekend adventurers. It offers wooded seclusion while still being reachable from Anchorage in under two hours.
Though growth has slowed, Willow remains a favorite for Alaskans seeking inexpensive land and room to spread out. Low density and year-round access make it a solid value for buyers looking to stay connected to road systems.
6. Anchor Point – 57% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $150,440
- 2011: $152,164 (+$1,724, +1.15% from previous year)
- 2012: $152,625 (+$461, +0.30% from previous year)
- 2013: $154,198 (+$1,573, +1.03% from previous year)
- 2014: $161,248 (+$7,050, +4.57% from previous year)
- 2015: $167,945 (+$6,697, +4.15% from previous year)
- 2016: $176,359 (+$8,414, +5.01% from previous year)
- 2017: $174,503 (-$1,856, -1.05% from previous year)
- 2018: $176,507 (+$2,004, +1.15% from previous year)
- 2019: $192,834 (+$16,328, +9.25% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $225,693
- 2022: $241,668 (+$15,975, +7.08% from previous year)
- 2023: $236,215 (-$5,453, -2.26% from previous year)
- 2024: $234,184 (-$2,030, -0.86% from previous year)
- 2025: $236,219 (+$2,035, +0.87% from previous year)
Anchor Point has seen a 57% home price increase since 2010, with values peaking at $236,219 in 2025. Prices have dipped slightly in recent years but remain consistently affordable, especially for ocean-facing Alaska communities.
Anchor Point – Low-Cost Coastal Living on the Kenai Peninsula
As the westernmost point in the U.S. highway system, Anchor Point is a quiet town with sweeping views of Cook Inlet. It offers access to world-class fishing, wide open beaches, and a laid-back pace of life that appeals to outdoor lovers and retirees.
Its modest housing stock and rural setting help keep property values in check, even as nearby Homer has seen higher growth. With steady demand from seasonal and full-time residents alike, Anchor Point remains a budget-friendly option for coastal living in Alaska.
5. Clam Gulch – 59% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: $147,079
- 2013: $154,654 (+$7,576, +5.15% from previous year)
- 2014: $159,626 (+$4,972, +3.21% from previous year)
- 2015: $167,412 (+$7,786, +4.88% from previous year)
- 2016: $179,123 (+$11,711, +7.00% from previous year)
- 2017: $177,720 (-$1,404, -0.78% from previous year)
- 2018: $178,798 (+$1,078, +0.61% from previous year)
- 2019: $193,146 (+$14,348, +8.02% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $227,674
- 2022: $251,152 (+$23,479, +10.31% from previous year)
- 2023: $243,822 (-$7,330, -2.92% from previous year)
- 2024: $237,651 (-$6,172, -2.53% from previous year)
- 2025: $233,805 (-$3,845, -1.62% from previous year)
Clam Gulch’s home prices rose 59% between 2012 and 2025, but values have cooled in the past three years. At $233,805, homes here remain very affordable for Kenai Peninsula buyers.
Clam Gulch – Affordable Access to Alaska’s Famous Fisheries
tw_mack, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Clam Gulch sits along the Sterling Highway, offering panoramic views of the Alaska Range across Cook Inlet. It’s best known for its beach access and razor clam harvesting, though recent closures have shifted attention to other recreation options.
The town’s housing market is small and stable, with affordability driven by its quiet character and relative distance from larger cities. Buyers seeking inexpensive land or modest cabins near the coast continue to find value here.
4. Fox River – 59% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: $145,972
- 2013: $155,314 (+$9,341, +6.40% from previous year)
- 2014: $159,644 (+$4,331, +2.79% from previous year)
- 2015: $165,405 (+$5,761, +3.61% from previous year)
- 2016: $161,597 (-$3,809, -2.30% from previous year)
- 2017: $177,092 (+$15,495, +9.59% from previous year)
- 2018: $173,637 (-$3,454, -1.95% from previous year)
- 2019: $182,054 (+$8,417, +4.85% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $228,008
- 2022: $236,825 (+$8,818, +3.87% from previous year)
- 2023: $233,682 (-$3,144, -1.33% from previous year)
- 2024: $230,568 (-$3,114, -1.33% from previous year)
- 2025: $231,697 (+$1,129, +0.49% from previous year)
Fox River has seen its home prices grow by 59% since 2012. Prices peaked in 2022 and have dipped slightly since, but 2025 values remain solid at $231,697—well below state averages.
Fox River – Remote and Quiet in the Kenai Mountains
Fox River is an unincorporated community northeast of Homer, known for its seclusion and natural beauty. It’s not densely developed, and many properties here are off-grid or rustic in design.
Limited infrastructure and challenging access keep prices low, but interest from off-grid buyers and independent-minded Alaskans keeps the market active. For those seeking quiet and privacy, few places in the state offer as much for this price.
3. Hope – 93% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: $115,504
- 2013: $132,686 (+$17,182, +14.88% from previous year)
- 2014: $134,634 (+$1,948, +1.47% from previous year)
- 2015: $140,057 (+$5,423, +4.03% from previous year)
- 2016: $143,409 (+$3,353, +2.39% from previous year)
- 2017: $145,189 (+$1,779, +1.24% from previous year)
- 2018: $143,009 (-$2,180, -1.50% from previous year)
- 2019: $158,753 (+$15,744, +11.01% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $190,012
- 2022: $206,856 (+$16,844, +8.86% from previous year)
- 2023: $208,931 (+$2,075, +1.00% from previous year)
- 2024: $211,918 (+$2,987, +1.43% from previous year)
- 2025: $222,671 (+$10,752, +5.07% from previous year)
Hope’s home prices have soared 93% since 2012, with consistent growth pushing the average value to $222,671 in 2025. Despite those gains, the town remains one of the cheapest in the state.
Hope – Small Community, Big Scenery
Sitting on the Turnagain Arm across from Anchorage, Hope is a historic mining town with a current population of fewer than 200 residents. Its location offers stunning views, access to trails, and a true off-the-beaten-path experience.
Buyers here are drawn by the solitude and scenery, not urban convenience. As a result, home prices have climbed steadily but remain far below those in Anchorage or the Mat-Su Valley.
2. Salcha – 35% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $155,829
- 2011: $152,593 (-$3,236, -2.08% from previous year)
- 2012: $151,703 (-$890, -0.58% from previous year)
- 2013: $155,367 (+$3,664, +2.42% from previous year)
- 2014: $143,929 (-$11,439, -7.36% from previous year)
- 2015: $147,813 (+$3,884, +2.70% from previous year)
- 2016: $157,465 (+$9,652, +6.53% from previous year)
- 2017: $166,074 (+$8,608, +5.47% from previous year)
- 2018: $177,213 (+$11,139, +6.71% from previous year)
- 2019: $181,566 (+$4,353, +2.46% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $198,424
- 2022: $203,605 (+$5,182, +2.61% from previous year)
- 2023: $205,217 (+$1,612, +0.79% from previous year)
- 2024: $207,148 (+$1,932, +0.94% from previous year)
- 2025: $209,671 (+$2,522, +1.22% from previous year)
Salcha’s market has grown modestly—just 35% over 15 years—keeping the average home price under $210,000 in 2025. This low rate of appreciation underscores the area’s long-running affordability.
Salcha – Remote Privacy Near Eielson AFB
Located southeast of Fairbanks, Salcha is best known for its quiet surroundings, outdoor opportunities, and proximity to Eielson Air Force Base. It has a small population and relatively few commercial services.
Its low housing costs reflect the limited demand and rural nature of the area. Still, access to the Richardson Highway and nearby job centers keeps it relevant for those seeking space on a budget.
1. Ninilchik – 39% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: $137,758
- 2013: $138,868 (+$1,110, +0.81% from previous year)
- 2014: $144,985 (+$6,117, +4.41% from previous year)
- 2015: $149,141 (+$4,156, +2.87% from previous year)
- 2016: $152,327 (+$3,186, +2.14% from previous year)
- 2017: $150,682 (-$1,645, -1.08% from previous year)
- 2018: $151,970 (+$1,288, +0.85% from previous year)
- 2019: $158,601 (+$6,632, +4.36% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $185,316
- 2022: $201,192 (+$15,875, +8.57% from previous year)
- 2023: $202,061 (+$869, +0.43% from previous year)
- 2024: $198,549 (-$3,512, -1.74% from previous year)
- 2025: $191,068 (-$7,482, -3.77% from previous year)
Ninilchik tops the list with the lowest 2025 average home price of just $191,068. While prices peaked in 2022, they’ve declined for two consecutive years, offering buyers more room to negotiate.
Ninilchik – Alaska’s Cheapest Town for 2025
Famous for its fishing charters and Russian Orthodox heritage, Ninilchik is a coastal community along the Sterling Highway. It offers stunning views, river and ocean access, and one of the state’s most affordable housing markets.
The town’s small size and seasonal economy help keep property values grounded. For budget-conscious buyers looking for beach access and a strong sense of place, Ninilchik delivers unmatched value in Alaska.
