Juneau, Alaska

Cost of Living in Juneau

Detailed cost of living data — sourced from authoritative datasets and normalized for direct comparison.

Cost of Living in Juneau, Alaska

The cost of living in Juneau is notably higher than the national average, standing approximately 32.6% above it. This elevated cost is primarily driven by housing expenses, which are about 41.8% more expensive than the national average. Utilities also contribute significantly to the higher costs, being around 41.1% above national levels.

Groceries are another major factor, with prices approximately 28.9% higher than the national average, and transportation costs are about 21.9% higher. These figures reflect Juneau's isolated geography, which necessitates shipping most goods and services into the region, thereby increasing consumer prices. While some costs, like public transit fares, can be affordable, the overall expense of daily life requires a higher income to maintain a comfortable standard of living.

Monthly Costs

Average Rent
$1,860
Groceries
$400
Utilities
$432
Transport
$120
Healthcare
$265
Cost Index
133

Detailed Breakdown

Gym membership (monthly)
$82.00
Entertainment
Cinema ticket
$12.00
Entertainment
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$35.00
Food
Monthly groceries
$896.00
Food
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$265.00
Healthcare
1BR Apartment (city centre)
$1,860.00
Housing
2BR Apartment (city centre)
$1,731.00
Housing
Home purchase (per sq ft)
$342.00
Housing
Monthly transit pass
$40.00
Transport
Gas per gallon (USD)
$3.61
Transport
Electricity + internet (monthly)
$270.00
Utilities

About Juneau, Alaska

Juneau, Alaska, the state capital, is a unique city nestled between towering mountains and the Gastineau Channel, making it accessible primarily by air or sea. Its character is deeply intertwined with its stunning natural surroundings, offering residents and visitors unparalleled access to outdoor adventures. The city's history is rooted in the Gold Rush era, and today it maintains a distinct blend of government, tourism, and resource-based industries. People are drawn to Juneau for its breathtaking scenery, close-knit community feel, and the opportunity to live amidst a temperate rainforest environment. Despite its remote location, Juneau provides a vibrant lifestyle for those who appreciate wilderness and a strong sense of place.