countyscore
49.5
County Score
Income & Jobs 95.4Disaster Risk 88.5Health 72.8

County Report Card

About Juneau City and Borough, Alaska

Juneau slightly below national par

Juneau City and Borough scores 49.5, just below the national median of 50.0, placing it near the 50th percentile nationwide. Despite extraordinary incomes, housing costs and other factors keep overall livability competitive but not exceptional.

Middle of Alaska's pack

Juneau scores 49.5 compared to the state average of 51.1, ranking it in the middle tier of Alaska counties. Alaska's capital city underperforms relative to a few other boroughs despite its prominent position.

Highest incomes in Alaska

Juneau residents earn a median household income of $100,513 with an exceptional income score of 95.4, the highest in this analysis. Health services are also strong (72.8), and the borough benefits from strong disaster preparedness (88.5 risk score).

Housing costs and affordability crisis

Housing is severely unaffordable with a median home value of $432,500 and monthly rent at $1,462, yielding a cost score of just 6.2. Safety data is not yet available, but the housing burden alone significantly constrains livability despite high incomes.

For Alaska's highest-earning households only

Juneau works best for well-compensated government employees and professionals whose six-figure incomes can absorb the nation's most expensive housing. This is Alaska's capital for the affluent, offering political engagement and good health services to those who can afford the premium.

Score breakdown

Tax42.8Cost6.2SafetyComing SoonHealth72.8Schools61.7Income95.4Risk88.5Water62Weather52.3
🏛42.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠6.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼95.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤72.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓61.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡88.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧62
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱53.8
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Counties with similar scores

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Minnehaha County
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Marshall County
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Floyd County
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Nearby counties

Hoonah-Angoon Census Area
Alaska
70.2
Haines Borough
Alaska
63
Skagway Municipality
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62.1
Petersburg Borough
Alaska
55.7
Sitka City and Borough
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57.3
Wrangell City and Borough
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Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area
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Ketchikan Gateway Borough
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Deep Dives

Juneau City and Borough across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 8 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Juneau City and Borough

via TaxByCounty

Juneau's tax rate moderately exceeds the nation

At 0.934%, Juneau City and Borough's effective property tax rate runs about 6% above the national median of 0.88%, landing it in the 51st percentile nationally. This rate places Juneau slightly above average compared to most American counties. Residents here pay a bit more than typical, but hardly exceptional by U.S. standards.

Juneau ranks third in Alaska's tax rate standings

Juneau's 0.934% effective rate positions it third statewide, behind only Fairbanks (1.264%) and Dillingham (1.755%), yet above Alaska's 0.772% average. As the state capital, Juneau's higher rate reflects elevated service demands and infrastructure investment. The borough's tax standing reflects its outsized economic and administrative role.

Juneau leads Southeast Alaska in property tax burden

Juneau's 0.934% rate outpaces Haines (0.802%), Ketchikan (0.683%), and dramatically exceeds Hoonah-Angoon (0.416%). Only Kodiak Island (0.917%) comes close regionally. Juneau's capital-city status translates into the highest tax obligations among Southeast Alaska communities.

The median Juneau home costs $4,039 yearly

With a median home value of $432,500—the highest in this group—and a 0.934% effective rate, a typical homeowner pays $4,039 annually in property taxes. Include mortgage-related taxes and the bill rises to $4,135. Even without mortgage considerations, the $3,829 obligation reflects Juneau's elevated tax commitment.

High-value Juneau homes merit assessment review

Given Juneau's steep home values and substantial tax bills, even small assessment errors translate into meaningful annual overpayments. Review your assessment notice carefully and compare your home's valuation against recent comparable sales. A successful appeal could yield hundreds in annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Juneau City and Borough

via CostByCounty

Juneau's high income shields housing burden

Despite a median rent of $1,462, Juneau's exceptional household income of $100,513 keeps the rent-to-income ratio to just 17.4%—well below national norms. This Southeast Alaska capital demonstrates how strong wages can offset expensive housing, making the overall affordability picture favorable relative to the nation.

Alaska's highest earners, favorable affordability

Juneau's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Alaska's best despite housing costs that appear steep in absolute dollars, thanks to the state's highest median household income at $100,513. This income advantage gives Juneau residents superior purchasing power statewide.

Most expensive Southeast, best-paying too

Juneau's $1,462 rent trails only Kodiak Island ($1,669) statewide, yet Juneau residents earn substantially more than neighbors in Haines, Ketchikan, or Hoonah-Angoon. The combination of high wages and high costs makes Juneau unique among Alaska's Southeast communities.

High earners manage 17.4% rent ratio

Juneau renters spend $1,462 monthly on a $100,513 income, consuming just 17.4% of earnings—the lowest rent burden among Alaska's expensive communities. Homeowners face a steeper path at $1,722 monthly, but the $100,513 median income provides genuine capacity to absorb these costs.

Juneau rewards high earners and career changers

Relocate to Juneau if pursuing better-paying positions; the $100,513 median income is Alaska's highest, making the 17.4% rent burden manageable despite $1,462 monthly rent. Compare this advantage against lower-cost Haines (15.1% ratio, $72,607 income) to weigh career growth against pure affordability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Juneau City and Borough

via IncomeByCounty

Juneau dominates national income rankings

Juneau's median household income of $100,513 exceeds the U.S. median by $25,758, ranking it among America's top-earning regions. This 34.5% advantage reflects Alaska's capital city status and its concentration of government, tourism, and fishing industries.

Alaska's highest-earning region by far

Juneau's $100,513 median income outpaces every other Alaska region, commanding 26.7% more than the state average of $79,407. Its per capita income of $51,146 also leads Alaska at $42,832, demonstrating exceptional earning power across the entire population.

Economic powerhouse in Southeast Alaska

Juneau's $100,513 income dwarfs regional peers: Ketchikan Gateway Borough ($89,155), Kodiak Island Borough ($83,716), and Haines Borough ($72,607) all trail significantly. As Alaska's capital, Juneau's government employment base and tourism economy create a wealth advantage no peer can match.

High incomes offset steep housing costs

Juneau's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% remains affordable despite median home values reaching $432,500, the highest in Alaska. Strong incomes allow most households to manage these premium prices, though first-time homebuyers and renters on regional median income may feel the squeeze.

Invest aggressively with premium earnings

Juneau's top-tier incomes position households to build wealth faster than nearly anywhere else in America—maximize this advantage through diversified investments and tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Work with a wealth advisor to develop a comprehensive strategy that captures the full potential of your above-average earning power.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Health in Juneau City and Borough

via HealthByCounty

Juneau's longevity is exceptional

At 79.8 years, Juneau's life expectancy ranks among America's highest, surpassing the U.S. average of 76.4 years by 3.4 years. The 12.7% poor/fair health rate is among the nation's lowest, indicating strong population health across the board.

Alaska's healthiest major community

Juneau leads Alaska counties with a 79.8-year life expectancy 4.2 years above the state average of 75.6 years. The 12.7% poor/fair health rate is the best in Alaska, demonstrating sustained health advantage in the capital region.

Juneau's health lead is clear

At 79.8 years, Juneau outruns every other Alaska county measured—Haines and Hoonah-Angoon are closest at 78.3 years, a full 1.5-year gap. Juneau's 12.7% poor/fair rate also bests all neighbors, suggesting systemic health strength in the capital.

Low uninsured rate, solid provider access

Juneau's 12.3% uninsured rate is the lowest in Alaska and well below the state average of 15.9%, ensuring broad coverage. Mental health providers (1074 per 100K) are abundant, though primary care access at 128 per 100K is moderate relative to population size.

Maintain Juneau's coverage leadership

With only 12% uninsured, Juneau is a model—but keep your coverage active and updated yearly to stay protected. Check healthcare.gov during annual enrollment to ensure you have the best plan for your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Juneau City and Borough

via SchoolsByCounty

Capital City Schooling Excellence

Juneau's educational landscape consists of 15 public schools serving 4,338 students within a single borough-wide district. The system is well-balanced with eight elementary schools, two middle schools, and four high schools. As the state capital, the infrastructure is designed to support a growing and diverse population.

Strong Outcomes in the Southeast

Juneau achieves a graduation rate of 86.0%, nearly matching the national average and significantly beating the state average of 79.0%. Per-pupil spending stands at $12,482, which is more efficient than the state average while maintaining a high school score of 63.3. These metrics indicate a school system that effectively converts its budget into student success.

The Juneau Borough District

The Juneau Borough School District manages all 15 schools and 4,338 students in the area. The district offers variety through two alternative schools and one charter school, which accounts for about 6.7% of local options. Large campuses like Thunder Mountain High School serve over 580 students each.

Town-Centered Coastal Learning

The majority of Juneau's schools are located in town settings, with a few rural outliers on the borough's periphery. The average school size is 289 students, providing a medium-sized feel that balances social opportunities with individual attention. From Auke Bay Elementary to the major high schools, the facilities reflect a modern, active community.

Homes Near Juneau's Best Schools

Living in the capital means access to some of Alaska's most consistent and high-performing schools. Many families target homes in the Mendenhall Valley or near the downtown campuses to stay close to top-rated elementary and middle schools. Consider the borough's strong graduation rates as you evaluate your next property purchase.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Juneau City and Borough

via RiskByCounty

Juneau enjoys very low national disaster risk

At 11.51, Juneau's composite risk score is Very Low and substantially below Alaska's state average of 35.22. This Southeast Alaska capital ranks among America's safest cities and boroughs from natural hazards.

Among Alaska's three safest counties

Juneau ranks in Alaska's lowest-risk tier, surpassed only by Ketchikan Gateway (1.69) and nearly matched by Haines (4.29). The borough's Southeast Alaska location provides significant natural protection.

Part of Alaska's safest Southeast cluster

Juneau (11.51) sits within Southeast Alaska's remarkably safe zone, alongside Ketchikan (1.69), Haines (4.29), and Hoonah-Angoon (14.31). All four communities dramatically outperform interior Alaska counties in disaster safety.

Earthquakes and flooding are secondary concerns

Earthquake risk (80.53) leads Juneau's hazard profile, though still relatively low compared to statewide risks, while flood risk (38.00) reflects tidal and precipitation patterns. Wildfire (19.53), tornado (0.57), and hurricane risks remain minimal.

Earthquake coverage is sensible; standard policy suffices otherwise

Add earthquake insurance to your homeowners policy to cover the 80.53 risk factor. Your standard policy should handle most other perils given Juneau's very low overall risk profile.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Juneau City and Borough

via WeatherByCounty

A Cool, Wet Maritime Capital

Juneau's 41.9°F average temperature sits roughly 12 degrees below the national median. As a temperate rainforest, it receives a staggering 92.5 inches of annual precipitation.

Milder and Wetter than Average Alaska

Juneau is much warmer than the 35.9°F state average but far wetter than the 54.8-inch state precipitation mean. Its coastal position keeps January averages at a relatively manageable 27.8°F.

Consistent with its Southeast Neighbors

Juneau shares a 41.9°F average temperature with Hoonah-Angoon, though it is slightly drier. It is significantly warmer and wetter than the interior Fairbanks North Star Borough.

Cool Summers and Snowy Winters

Summer temperatures average just 55.5°F, with zero days reaching 90°F. The city sees 81.9 inches of annual snowfall, adding to the high total precipitation that falls year-round.

Prepare for Dampness and Slush

Residents need high-quality rain shells and boots for the 92.5 inches of annual rain. Winter driving requires tires suited for heavy slush rather than just dry ice, given the 29.2°F winter average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Lawn Care in Juneau City and Borough

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Gardening in Alaska's Capital

Juneau's lawn difficulty score of 53.8 indicates a climate that is more favorable for grass than the national average. While the score is slightly below the Alaska state average, Juneau benefits from more temperate winters than the interior.

High Precipitation and Cool Summers

Juneau sees a massive 92.5 inches of annual rain, which is double the upper limit of the ideal 30-50 inch range. The growing season is lengthy for the state, beginning May 3 and stretching until the first frost on October 18.

Addressing Drainage in Juneau Soils

With no borough-wide soil data available, homeowners must test their own plots for drainage efficiency. Because of the 92.5 inches of rain, maintaining a neutral pH and adding organic matter is crucial for preventing moss competition.

Consistent Moisture All Year Long

The capital has seen zero weeks of drought over the past year and currently reports no abnormally dry conditions. Natural rainfall is more than sufficient for lawn needs, typically making manual irrigation unnecessary for established turf.

Seeding for the Long Coastal Season

The 625 growing degree days support a healthy lawn if you use cool-season mixes like Kentucky Bluegrass. Aim to seed in early May to take full advantage of the long growing window that lasts until mid-October.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Juneau City and Borough's county score?
Juneau City and Borough, Alaska has a composite county score of 49.5 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Juneau City and Borough rank among counties in Alaska?
Juneau City and Borough ranks #16 among all counties in Alaska on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Juneau City and Borough, Alaska?
The median annual property tax in Juneau City and Borough is $4,039, with an effective tax rate of 0.93%. This earns Juneau City and Borough a tax score of 42.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Juneau City and Borough?
The median household income in Juneau City and Borough, Alaska is $100,513 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Juneau City and Borough earns an income score of 95.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Juneau City and Borough, Alaska a good place to live?
Juneau City and Borough scores 49.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #16 in Alaska. The best way to evaluate Juneau City and Borough is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Juneau City and Borough with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.