Average Rent in Bethel Census, AK↓ Rents falling 2.9% YoY🔺 2nd priciest in AK
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 18,487
Market Overview
Bethel Census, AK has rental prices ranging from $1,640/month to $2,519/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,650/month — 18% above the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $70,616/year, spending $1,650/month on a 1-bedroom represents 28% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Bethel Census Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,900/month, Bethel Census ranks #2 most expensive of the 34 cities tracked in Alaska — pricier than 97% of all US cities in our data.
The Bethel Census Rental Market
The Bethel Census, AK area has a population of about 18,487 and 40% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs above the US average of ~34%, pointing to a competitive rental market where vacancies clear quickly and rents are less negotiable.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Bethel Census, AK have fallen by $57/month (2.9%) over the past year, from $1,957 to $1,900. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Bethel Census, AK without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $66,000. The local median household income of $70,616 exceeds that threshold by $4,616, making Bethel Census relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Bethel Census, AK has an unemployment rate of 10.7%, 6.8 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Bethel Census, AK Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in AKlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anchorage | $1,089 | $1,191 | $1,563 | $2,190 | — |
| Matanuska | $1,019 | $1,055 | $1,384 | $1,939 | — |
| Fairbanks | $1,144 | $1,272 | $1,669 | $2,339 | — |
| Kenai Peninsula Borough | $943 | $949 | $1,245 | $1,745 | — |
| Juneau City and Borough | $1,202 | $1,336 | $1,753 | $2,456 | — |
| Ketchikan Gateway Borough | $1,055 | $1,172 | $1,538 | $2,138 | — |
Rent or Buy in Bethel Census?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Bethel Census data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in Bethel Census
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Bethel CensusSalary needed to afford rent here
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