countyscore
48.9
County Score
Disaster Risk 98.3Income & Jobs 91.7Property Tax 65

County Report Card

About Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Alaska

Ketchikan near national livability median

Ketchikan Gateway Borough scores 48.8, just below the national median of 50.0, placing it at the 48th percentile nationally. This Southeast Alaska borough offers livability comparable to average American counties.

Slightly below Alaska average

Ketchikan scores 48.8 compared to the state average of 51.1, ranking it in Alaska's lower-middle tier. The borough underperforms most of its Alaskan counterparts despite strong individual metrics.

Income and risk resilience excel

Ketchikan boasts the second-highest median household income at $89,155 with an exceptional income score of 91.7, paired with the highest risk score (98.3) in this analysis, indicating superior disaster preparedness. Tax burden is also favorable at 0.683 effective rate.

Housing and water quality problematic

Housing is expensive with a median home value of $379,000 and rent at $1,388/month, yielding the second-lowest cost score (8.9). Water quality is also concerning at just 5.1, a near-lowest score, suggesting potential infrastructure or contamination issues.

For high earners prioritizing disaster safety

Ketchikan suits affluent professionals and families with six-figure household incomes seeking excellent disaster preparedness in a Southeast Alaska setting. This is the place for people willing to pay premium housing costs for exceptional natural hazard resilience and strong earning potential.

Score breakdown

Tax65Cost8.9Safety48.4Health58.4Schools56.3Income91.7Risk98.3Water5.1Weather59.3
🏛65
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠8.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼91.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡48.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤58.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡98.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧5.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤59.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱53.7
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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Deep Dives

Ketchikan Gateway Borough across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Ketchikan Gateway Borough

via TaxByCounty

Ketchikan taxes run modestly below national median

At 0.683%, Ketchikan Gateway Borough's effective property tax rate sits about 22% below the national median of 0.88%, placing it in the 30th percentile nationally. This rate makes Ketchikan a relatively low-tax zone by American standards. Residents enjoy tax advantages compared to the typical U.S. homeowner.

Ketchikan ranks seventh in Alaska's tax hierarchy

Ketchikan Gateway's 0.683% effective rate sits below Alaska's state average of 0.772%, positioning it among the state's lighter-taxing boroughs. Only Hoonah-Angoon (0.416%) taxes significantly lower in Southeast Alaska. Ketchikan offers residents moderate tax relief relative to most Alaska communities.

Ketchikan maintains lighter burden than most Southeast peers

Ketchikan's 0.683% rate undercuts Juneau (0.934%), Kodiak Island (0.917%), and Haines (0.802%), positioning it as Southeast's second-lightest-taxing jurisdiction behind Hoonah-Angoon. This favorable standing reflects Ketchikan's careful balance of service delivery and fiscal restraint. The borough taxes more lightly than most regional neighbors.

The median Ketchikan home costs $2,588 yearly

With a median home value of $379,000 and a 0.683% effective rate, a typical homeowner pays $2,588 annually in property taxes. Mortgage considerations increase the obligation to $2,678, while those without mortgages owe $2,389. Despite higher home values, Ketchikan residents benefit from a moderate tax rate.

Ketchikan homeowners should verify assessment fairness

Even in lower-tax jurisdictions, assessment errors can silently drain household resources—particularly on higher-value homes like those common in Ketchikan. Request your assessment details and compare your valuation against recent comparable sales in your area. If your home appears overvalued, filing an appeal could reduce your burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Ketchikan Gateway Borough

via CostByCounty

Ketchikan's strong income softens housing costs

With a 18.7% rent-to-income ratio, Ketchikan mirrors Alaska's state average despite a robust median household income of $89,155—well above the nation's $74,755. The $1,388 monthly rent reflects Southeast Alaska pricing, but high local wages keep the overall burden reasonable for renters.

Strong wages, near-average affordability ratio

Ketchikan's 18.7% rent-to-income ratio essentially matches Alaska's 18.6% state average, despite housing costs that appear high in absolute terms. The borough's $89,155 median income—among the state's strongest—is the key factor keeping affordability competitive.

Southeast's income leader, moderate costs

Ketchikan's $1,388 rent ranks high for Alaska, but the borough's $89,155 median income is the strongest in Southeast, beating Haines ($72,607) and Juneau's lead ($100,513). Among gateway communities, Ketchikan balances expensive housing with above-average earning potential.

Renters spend 18.7%, owners face $1,501/month

Ketchikan renters allocate 18.7% of their $89,155 income to the $1,388 median rent, a manageable ratio buoyed by above-average wages. Homeowners bear a steeper burden at $1,501 monthly, but the strong income base provides capacity for ownership.

Ketchikan rewards job seekers with earning power

Relocate to Ketchikan if you can secure above-average wages; the $89,155 median income makes the 18.7% rent burden genuinely affordable. Compare this earning power against lower-income Haines ($72,607) to see whether Ketchikan's wage premium justifies its $1,388 monthly rent.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ketchikan Gateway Borough

via IncomeByCounty

Ketchikan solidly above U.S. average

Ketchikan Gateway Borough's median household income of $89,155 surpasses the U.S. median by $14,400, placing it in the top quartile of American earning power. This 19.3% advantage reflects Southeast Alaska's robust cruise tourism and fishing industries, which support higher-than-average wages.

Third-highest earner in Alaska

Ketchikan ranks third among Alaska's eight regions, earning 12.2% above the state average of $79,407 with a median household income of $89,155. Its per capita income of $46,608 also exceeds Alaska's $42,832 average, indicating strong earning potential throughout the community.

Alaska's tourism income champion

Ketchikan's $89,155 income trails only Juneau ($100,513) and Fairbanks ($84,722) among Alaska regions, reflecting its premier cruise ship destination status. It outearns Kodiak Island Borough ($83,716), Kenai Peninsula ($77,722), and all other peers, positioning it as Southeast Alaska's second-strongest economy.

Strong income balances steep housing

Ketchikan's rent-to-income ratio of 18.7% remains affordable, though median home values of $379,000 demand significant household resources. High incomes help offset premium property costs, making homeownership achievable for most households despite Alaska's generally expensive real estate.

Leverage tourism income for growth

Ketchikan's tourism-driven economy can mean seasonal income fluctuations, so use your strong average earnings to build an emergency fund and diversified investments now. A financial advisor can help you weather income variability while maximizing long-term wealth growth through strategic saving and investing.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ketchikan Gateway Borough

via CrimeByCounty

Ketchikan maintains a strong safety score

Despite having a total crime rate of 1157.4 per 100,000, Ketchikan earns a high safety score of 98.2. This total rate is still less than half the national average of 2,385.5.

Slightly below the Alaska average

Ketchikan's safety score of 98.2 is slightly lower than the state average of 98.6. While safer than the average U.S. county, it faces more challenges than some other Alaska boroughs.

Higher rates than regional neighbors

The borough's crime rate of 1157.4 is higher than the Alaska state average of 861.7. Because this data relies on a single agency, it reflects concentrated local reporting trends.

Theft and property crime dominate

Property crime accounts for 963.3 of the total rate, making up the bulk of local incidents. Violent crime remains relatively low at 194.1, well below the national mark of 369.8.

Prioritize property protection

With property crime being the most frequent issue, securing your home and outbuildings is a smart move. Motion lights and locked entry points are effective deterrents against theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Ketchikan Gateway Borough

via HealthByCounty

Ketchikan's life expectancy slightly above U.S. average

At 77.6 years, Ketchikan exceeds the U.S. life expectancy of 76.4 years, placing the borough in healthier-than-average territory. The 14.7% poor/fair health rate is well below the national average of 18%, indicating solid community health.

Top-tier Alaska health rankings

Ketchikan's 77.6-year life expectancy surpasses Alaska's 75.6-year average by 2 years, ranking among the state's healthiest boroughs. The 14.7% poor/fair health rate places it well above most Alaska communities in health status.

Among Alaska's healthiest communities

Ketchikan's 77.6-year life expectancy matches Kodiak (77.4) and Fairbanks (77.7), positioning it in Alaska's health elite. The 14.7% poor/fair health rate ties closely with neighboring communities and reflects strong regional health patterns.

High mental health provider access

Ketchikan's 15.5% uninsured rate is just below Alaska's average of 15.9%, providing reasonable coverage levels. Mental health providers at 1776 per 100K are exceptionally abundant—Alaska's highest—while primary care access at 124 per 100K is more typical.

Leverage Ketchikan's mental health strength

With excellent mental health resources, make sure your insurance covers behavioral health and therapy services. Review your plan at healthcare.gov during annual enrollment to confirm mental health benefits align with your family's needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Ketchikan Gateway Borough

via SchoolsByCounty

Ketchikan's Island Education System

The Ketchikan Gateway Borough serves 2,074 students through a compact system of nine public schools. The landscape includes five elementary schools, one middle school, two high schools, and one specialized program. This centralized structure supports the residents of Revillagigedo Island and the surrounding areas.

Solid Performance and Higher Spending

Ketchikan's 82.0% graduation rate exceeds the state average of 79.0%, though it remains below the national 87.0% benchmark. The borough invests $13,991 per pupil, slightly more than the state average and the national $13,000 average. A school score of 64.4 reflects a system that is performing well relative to state standards.

Leading the Way in Charters

The Ketchikan Gateway Borough School District manages all education in the area, emphasizing a diverse range of choices. Two of the nine schools are charters, meaning over 22% of local options are charter-based—the highest share among the counties listed. Ketchikan High School is the largest campus, serving nearly 500 students.

Coastal Town Schooling

Seven of the borough's nine schools are located in town locales, creating a community-centric atmosphere where schools are close to residential areas. The average school size is 230 students, offering a mid-sized environment that is neither too large nor too isolated. Primary schools like Houghtaling Elementary serve as key neighborhood anchors.

Finding a Home in Ketchikan

Ketchikan's mix of traditional and charter schools makes it an attractive destination for families who value educational variety. Real estate in the town center offers convenient access to the middle and high schools, while peripheral areas provide more space near rural schools. Consider the borough's strong academic investment when planning your move.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ketchikan Gateway Borough

via RiskByCounty

Ketchikan ranks among America's safest counties

At just 1.69, Ketchikan Gateway Borough's composite risk score is Very Low and one of the lowest in the entire nation. This Southeast Alaska borough sits far below Alaska's state average of 35.22, enjoying exceptional natural hazard protection.

Alaska's safest county by composite score

Ketchikan Gateway Borough holds Alaska's lowest composite risk ranking, with a score less than one-twentieth of the state average. No other Alaska county comes close to this level of disaster safety.

Safest in an already low-risk Southeast cluster

Ketchikan (1.69) outperforms all regional peers, including Haines (4.29), Juneau (11.51), and Hoonah-Angoon (14.31). Southeast Alaska as a whole is remarkably safe, and Ketchikan leads the way.

Minimal earthquake risk; wildfire and flood negligible

Earthquake risk (31.17) is Ketchikan's only notable hazard concern, though still quite low in absolute terms. Wildfire (10.94), flood (26.00), and tornado risks (0.19) pose negligible threats to residents.

Standard homeowners insurance likely sufficient

Given Ketchikan's exceptionally low overall risk score, a standard homeowners policy should provide adequate protection for most hazards. Earthquake coverage is optional given the 31.17 risk factor, but basic emergency preparedness is always wise.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Ketchikan Gateway Borough

via WeatherByCounty

One of America’s Wettest Regions

Ketchikan averages 46.6°F annually, which is mild for Alaska but defined by a massive 153.4 inches of precipitation. This is nearly triple the state average and far beyond the national median.

The Warm, Wet Edge of Alaska

Ketchikan is over 10 degrees warmer than the state average of 35.9°F. Its maritime climate ensures that even in January, temperatures average a relatively warm 35.7°F.

Wetter than its Coastal Peers

While Juneau is considered wet at 92.5 inches of rain, Ketchikan receives 153.4 inches, making it significantly Rainier. It remains the warmest major region in the state with an average of 46.6°F.

A Season of Endless Rain

The borough sees no extreme heat days, with summer averages hovering around 58.5°F. Winter is mild for the latitude, averaging 36.3°F, though snowfall data for the borough is not currently available.

Waterproofing is the Top Priority

In a region with 153.4 inches of rain, industrial-grade waterproof gear is a daily necessity. Home maintenance must prioritize drainage and mold prevention due to the persistent high humidity.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Lawn Care in Ketchikan Gateway Borough

via LawnByCounty

Lawn Care in a Coastal Rainforest

Ketchikan Gateway Borough scores a 53.7 for lawn difficulty, reflecting conditions that are slightly easier than the national average. Despite the massive rainfall, the relatively mild temperatures make it comparable to many other Alaskan coastal areas.

Extreme Rain and a Long Season

Ketchikan receives a staggering 153.4 inches of rain annually, nearly triple the state average of 53.5 inches. This moisture supports a long growing season that begins on April 22 and doesn't see a frost until November 9.

The Challenge of Saturated Soils

Specific soil data is missing, but with 153 inches of rain, the primary soil challenge is preventing compaction and washout. Extensive aeration and sandy soil amendments are typically required to keep grass roots from drowning in these rainforest conditions.

No Drought Risk for the Gateway

Ketchikan has recorded zero weeks of drought over the past year and currently has 0% of its area in dry conditions. Your main task is water management and drainage rather than conservation, as the region stays perpetually hydrated.

A Long Window for Growth

With 1,043 growing degree days, Ketchikan has more growth potential than most of Alaska. Use the long frost-free window from April to November to establish a hardy, water-tolerant turf mix like Creeping Red Fescue.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ketchikan Gateway Borough's county score?
Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Alaska has a composite county score of 48.9 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 Ketchikan Gateway Borough rank among counties in Alaska?
Ketchikan Gateway Borough ranks #17 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 Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Alaska?
The median annual property tax in Ketchikan Gateway Borough is $2,588, with an effective tax rate of 0.68%. This earns Ketchikan Gateway Borough a tax score of 65/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ketchikan Gateway Borough?
The median household income in Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Alaska is $89,155 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ketchikan Gateway Borough earns an income score of 91.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Alaska a good place to live?
Ketchikan Gateway Borough scores 48.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #17 in Alaska. The best way to evaluate Ketchikan Gateway 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 Ketchikan Gateway 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.