countyscore
47.5
County Score
Income & Jobs 87.6Safety 79.9Schools 54.4

County Report Card

About Kodiak Island Borough, Alaska

Kodiak approaches national livability standard

Kodiak Island Borough scores 47.5, slightly below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the 45th percentile nationwide. The borough is a near-average American county in livability terms.

Below Alaska's average performance

Kodiak scores 47.5 compared to the state average of 51.1, ranking it in the lower half of Alaska counties. The borough underperforms several of its peers despite strong incomes.

Strong incomes support the economy

Kodiak residents earn median household income of $83,716 with an impressive income score of 87.6, indicating robust earning potential. Safety is also solid at 79.9, and the tax rate of 0.917% is moderate for Alaska.

Housing and disaster risk are major concerns

Housing is extremely expensive with median home value of $382,700 and rent at $1,669/month—the highest rent in this analysis—yielding a cost score of just 7.0. Disaster risk exposure is also high (34.9 risk score), indicating significant climate and environmental vulnerabilities.

For resilient, well-funded island families

Kodiak suits established professionals and remote workers with substantial savings who accept island living, premium housing costs, and significant natural hazards. This is Alaska's choice for people seeking community and fishery-based economy over affordability and climate safety.

Score breakdown

Tax44Cost7Safety79.9Health52.3Schools54.4Income87.6Risk34.9Water6.8Weather51.5
🏛44
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼87.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡79.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤52.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓54.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡34.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧6.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.5
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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Nearby counties

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Bristol Bay Borough
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Kenai Peninsula Borough
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Dillingham Census Area
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Anchorage Municipality
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Chugach Census Area
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Matanuska-Susitna Borough
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Aleutians East Borough
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Deep Dives

Kodiak Island Borough across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Kodiak Island Borough

via TaxByCounty

Kodiak Island taxes moderately exceed national median

At 0.917%, Kodiak Island Borough's effective property tax rate runs about 4% above the national median of 0.88%, placing it near the 52nd percentile nationally. This rate positions Kodiak Island slightly above typical American burdens. Residents here pay a touch more than average, but well within the normal range.

Kodiak Island ranks fifth in Alaska's tax standings

Kodiak Island Borough's 0.917% effective rate sits above Alaska's state average of 0.772%, placing it among the state's higher-taxing boroughs behind Fairbanks (1.264%), Dillingham (1.755%), and Juneau (0.934%). The borough's elevated rate reflects robust community services and infrastructure investment. Kodiak ranks in the upper tier of Alaska's tax landscape.

Kodiak Island taxes higher than most Southeast peers

Kodiak Island's 0.917% rate exceeds Ketchikan (0.683%), Haines (0.802%), and dramatically surpasses Hoonah-Angoon (0.416%), though it trails Juneau (0.934%). The borough's island isolation and high home values drive elevated service costs and corresponding tax obligations. Kodiak stands among Southeast Alaska's higher-taxing communities.

The median Kodiak home costs $3,509 yearly

With a median home value of $382,700—among the highest in this group—and a 0.917% effective rate, a typical homeowner pays $3,509 annually in property taxes. Mortgage considerations push the annual bill to $4,070, though those without mortgages still owe $2,193. Kodiak's substantial tax obligations reflect both high home values and elevated local tax rates.

Higher-value Kodiak homes warrant assessment scrutiny

Kodiak Island's elevated home values and robust tax bills make assessment accuracy particularly important—even modest overvaluations yield significant annual overpayments. Carefully review your assessment notice and verify your valuation against recent comparable sales. An appeal could reduce your bill by hundreds annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Kodiak Island Borough

via CostByCounty

Kodiak Island: Alaska's most expensive housing burden

At 23.9%, Kodiak Island's rent-to-income ratio is the highest across all measured Alaska counties and significantly exceeds national norms, meaning residents dedicate nearly a quarter of income to rent. The $1,669 monthly rent is Alaska's priciest, while the $83,716 median income, though solid, struggles to absorb this exceptional housing cost.

Kodiak ranks as Alaska's least affordable

Kodiak Island's 23.9% rent-to-income ratio is the worst in Alaska, 5.3 percentage points above the state average of 18.6%. The $1,669 median monthly rent is the absolute highest statewide, creating genuine affordability pressure despite residents earning a respectable $83,716 annually.

Island pricing isolates Kodiak from peers

Kodiak Island's $1,669 rent vastly exceeds nearly every other Alaska community: Juneau is $207 cheaper ($1,462), Fairbanks is $245 cheaper ($1,424), and most others pale in comparison. Geographic isolation and island economy dynamics drive Kodiak's exceptional cost burden.

Renters spend 23.9%, owners $1,459/month

Kodiak renters spend nearly a quarter of their $83,716 income—$1,669 monthly—leaving limited room for other expenses and savings. Even homeowners pay a steep $1,459 monthly, making Kodiak Island the state's most challenging market for both renting and ownership.

Kodiak demands highest income tolerance statewide

Only consider relocating to Kodiak Island if you secure substantially above-market wages; the 23.9% rent burden is the worst in Alaska and drains household budgets. Compare this burden against Haines' 15.1% ratio or Dillingham's 17.5% to fully appreciate Kodiak's exceptional housing cost pressure.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Kodiak Island Borough

via IncomeByCounty

Kodiak earnings exceed U.S. average

Kodiak Island Borough's median household income of $83,716 surpasses the U.S. median by $8,961, placing it in the top third of American earning power. This $8,961 advantage reflects Alaska's strong fishing industry and the borough's position as a regional economic hub.

Fourth-highest earner in Alaska

Kodiak ranks fourth among Alaska's eight regions in median household income, earning 5.4% below the state average of $79,407 despite its $83,716 median. Its per capita income of $40,615 trails Alaska's $42,832 average, suggesting a wider income distribution than wealthier regions.

Competitive with major Alaska hubs

Kodiak's $83,716 income trails Juneau ($100,513), Fairbanks ($84,722), and Ketchikan ($89,155) but outpaces Kenai Peninsula ($77,722), Dillingham ($74,250), and smaller regions. Its fishing-centered economy supports respectable earnings compared to most Alaska communities.

Housing costs strain median income

Kodiak faces the steepest housing affordability challenge in Alaska with a rent-to-income ratio of 23.9%, approaching the 30% danger threshold. Median home values of $382,700 demand substantial household budgets, making careful financial planning essential for renters and homebuyers alike.

Optimize budget to unlock savings

With housing costs consuming nearly a quarter of income, maximizing your remaining earnings through disciplined budgeting and strategic saving becomes critical. Work with a financial planner to identify discretionary expenses that can be redirected toward retirement accounts, investments, and emergency reserves.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Kodiak Island Borough

via CrimeByCounty

Kodiak Island is exceptionally safe

Kodiak Island boasts a high safety score of 99.3, far exceeding the national norm. Its total crime rate of 474.6 per 100,000 is roughly 80% lower than the national average.

A safety leader in Alaska

With a safety score of 99.3, Kodiak Island outperforms the Alaska average of 98.6. It is one of the more secure regions in the state based on reported 2022 data.

Crime remains well below averages

The borough's total crime rate of 474.6 is significantly lower than the state average of 861.7. This reflects a peaceful community where law enforcement manages relatively few incidents.

Violent crime is notably rare

Kodiak's violent crime rate is just 137.8 per 100,000, which is much lower than the national average of 369.8. Property crime stands at 336.8, which is also very low compared to U.S. standards.

Keep your home secure

Low crime rates are a community asset that residents can help maintain. Practicing standard security habits like locking vehicles and homes keeps property crime rates minimal.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Kodiak Island Borough

via HealthByCounty

Kodiak matches national life expectancy

At 77.4 years, Kodiak's life expectancy is nearly identical to the U.S. average of 76.4 years, placing residents in typical American health territory. The 16.0% poor/fair health rate is better than the national average of 18%, showing solid reported health status.

Slightly above Alaska average

Kodiak's 77.4-year life expectancy tops Alaska's 75.6-year state average by 1.8 years, reflecting above-average longevity in the state. The 16.0% poor/fair health rate sits below state averages, indicating better health outcomes than many Alaska communities.

Middle-tier health outcomes

Kodiak's 77.4-year life expectancy falls slightly below Ketchikan (77.6) and Kenai (77.9), but exceeds Fairbanks (77.7) by modest margins. The 16.0% poor/fair health rate clusters with mid-tier Alaska communities, suggesting balanced health challenges and strengths.

Highest uninsured rate of measured counties

Kodiak's 17.8% uninsured rate is the highest in this Alaska sample, exceeding the state average of 15.9% by 1.9 percentage points. Primary care at 141 per 100K and mental health at 430 per 100K provide moderate regional access in this island community.

Address Kodiak's coverage gap

Nearly one in five Kodiak residents lack health insurance—the highest rate in this Alaska comparison—so explore coverage urgently. Visit healthcare.gov or contact local tribal health programs to find affordable plans and enrollment assistance.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Kodiak Island Borough

via SchoolsByCounty

Serving the Kodiak Archipelago

Kodiak Island Borough manages 12 public schools serving 2,228 students across the island chain. The infrastructure consists of four elementary schools, one middle school, one high school, and six schools with 'other' grade configurations. This network ensures that students in remote fishing villages and the main city alike have access to education.

Efficient Island Academics

With a 82.0% graduation rate, Kodiak outperforms the Alaska state average of 79.0%. The district spends $12,103 per pupil, which is lower than both the state and national averages, showing a high level of efficiency. The composite school score of 60.3 is slightly below the state average but remains competitive.

The Kodiak Island District

The Kodiak Island Borough School District is the sole provider for the region, managing all 12 schools and 2,228 students. There are no charter schools in the borough, with resources consolidated into the traditional public system. Kodiak High School is the borough's flagship institution, serving 620 students.

A Blend of Town and Rural

Schools are split between five town-based sites in the city of Kodiak and seven rural sites in outlying villages. The average school size is 186 students, but the experience varies wildly from the bustling East Elementary (325 students) to tiny village schools. This mix reflects the borough's dual identity as both a maritime hub and a wilderness frontier.

Invest in a Home Near Kodiak Schools

Most families look for homes within the city of Kodiak to be near the primary elementary and high school campuses. For those seeking a quieter lifestyle, the outlying areas offer a unique village school experience. Kodiak's efficient school system and solid graduation rates make it a reliable choice for homebuyers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Kodiak Island Borough

via RiskByCounty

Kodiak faces moderate U.S. disaster risk levels

With a composite risk score of 65.14, Kodiak Island Borough ranks as Relatively Low and moderately exceeds Alaska's state average of 35.22. This south-central island region experiences higher natural hazard exposure than most of the nation, but less than Alaska's highest-risk areas.

Mid-range risk profile within Alaska

Kodiak Island Borough ranks in Alaska's middle tier—safer than interior and peninsula powerhouses Fairbanks (88.52) and Kenai Peninsula (93.03), but riskier than Southeast Alaska communities. The 65.14 score reflects the island's geographic and seismic exposure.

Riskier than Southeast, safer than Kenai Peninsula

Kodiak (65.14) sits comfortably between Southeast Alaska's safe counties (1.69–14.31) and the high-risk interior and peninsula (88–93). The island's position and geology create moderate hazard exposure.

Earthquakes dominate; wildfires secondary concern

Earthquake risk peaks at 94.72, making seismic activity a dominant threat on Kodiak Island. Wildfire risk (23.22) poses a secondary concern, while flood (4.42) and tornado risks (0.48) remain minimal.

Earthquake insurance essential; wildfire awareness helpful

Earthquake coverage is non-negotiable given the 94.72 risk score—add it to your homeowners policy today. Keep your property cleared of vegetation and ensure roof and siding materials are fire-resistant to mitigate wildfire risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Kodiak Island Borough

via WeatherByCounty

Maritime Mildness in the North Pacific

Kodiak Island averages 40.7°F annually, kept cool but stable by the surrounding Pacific Ocean. This maritime climate avoids the extreme temperature swings found in the continental U.S.

Warmer and Rainier than Average Alaska

Kodiak's 40.7°F average is warmer than the 35.9°F state average. It receives 80.5 inches of precipitation annually, which is significantly higher than the statewide average of 54.8 inches.

Milder and Drier than Southeast Alaska

Kodiak is slightly cooler than Ketchikan (46.6°F) and receives roughly half the precipitation. It sees about 50 inches of snowfall annually, which is much less than the 204.5 inches found in Haines.

Cool Summers and Manageable Winters

Winter temperatures average a moderate 30.4°F, while summers are consistently cool at 53.2°F. The island experiences 50 inches of snow and zero days of extreme heat over 90°F.

Gear Up for Wind and Rain

Residents should prioritize wind-blocking and waterproof layers for the 80.5 inches of annual precipitation. Because winter stays near freezing, gear that handles slush and damp cold is better than heavy arctic parkas.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Lawn Care in Kodiak Island Borough

via LawnByCounty

Island Living Means Stable Lawn Care

Kodiak Island Borough has a lawn difficulty score of 53.8, placing it above the national average for ease of maintenance. This score reflects a maritime climate that avoids the extreme temperature fluctuations found on the mainland.

Bountiful Rain and Cool Summers

Kodiak receives 80.5 inches of annual precipitation, which is well above the national ideal but keeps lawns consistently lush. The growing season is moderate, starting after the May 9 frost and ending around October 4.

Preparing Kodiak's Maritime Soil

Data on soil pH and texture is currently limited, making individual soil tests the best way to plan your amendments. In this 80-inch rainfall environment, ensure your soil foundation has the drainage capacity to handle heavy island storms.

Occasional Dry Spells on the Island

Kodiak has experienced zero weeks of true drought in the past year, though 2.5% of the area is currently classified as abnormally dry. These dry patches are rare and usually short-lived, as the island's maritime weather provides frequent moisture.

Planting for the Kodiak Climate

With 407 growing degree days, grass grows at a slower, steadier pace than on the mainland. Seed your lawn in mid-May once the frost risk passes to allow the roots to settle before the heavy autumn rains arrive in October.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kodiak Island Borough's county score?
Kodiak Island Borough, Alaska has a composite county score of 47.5 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 Kodiak Island Borough rank among counties in Alaska?
Kodiak Island Borough ranks #20 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 Kodiak Island Borough, Alaska?
The median annual property tax in Kodiak Island Borough is $3,509, with an effective tax rate of 0.92%. This earns Kodiak Island Borough a tax score of 44/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Kodiak Island Borough?
The median household income in Kodiak Island Borough, Alaska is $83,716 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Kodiak Island Borough earns an income score of 87.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Kodiak Island Borough, Alaska a good place to live?
Kodiak Island Borough scores 47.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #20 in Alaska. The best way to evaluate Kodiak Island 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 Kodiak Island Borough with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.