Big Lake, AK Utility & Living Guide

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Big Lake, AK Utility & Living Guide

Living in Big Lake, AK offers a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the year.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
🌤️ Live Weather — Big Lake
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📷 Live Cameras — Big Lake
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Big Lake
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Matanuska Electric Association
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Big Lake Water Utility
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Matanuska-Susitna Borough Solid Waste
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $300/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Big Lake is relatively affordable, with a mix of single-family homes and apartments available for rent or purchase. However, the market can be competitive, especially during the summer months. Residents can expect to pay around $1,100 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

108

Transportation

92

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<p>No state sales tax, but some local taxes may apply</p>

Alaska has no state income tax, but residents may still be subject to federal income tax

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including healthcare, education, and tourism
Top Local Concerns
Public safety, infrastructure development, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

Big Lake has limited public transportation options, but the area is relatively flat and easy to navigate with a stroller

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Big Lake Park
  • 🎯
    Nancy Lake State Recreation Area
  • 🎯
    Matanuska-Susitna Valley Farmers Market

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around Big Lake Park is popular with families, offering easy access to outdoor recreation and community events. The nearby city of Wasilla also has a range of family-friendly neighborhoods and amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Big Lake based on your household profile.

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Residents are subject to Matanuska-Susitna Borough ordinances and regulations, including those related to zoning, building codes, and environmental protection

Big Lake is experiencing a surge in new businesses and developments, driven by its growing population and strategic location. However, the local economy is also facing challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic and fluctuations in the oil and gas industry.

Financial Tools

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📊 Big Lake — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Big Lake can fluctuate significantly depending on the season, with higher electricity bills in the winter due to heating needs and lower bills in the summer. However, the area's mild summers mean that air conditioning costs are relatively low.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 99652 has a property tax millage rate of 10.5, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with explanation: Big Lake has some sidewalks and parks, but the area is not highly developed for stroller-friendly infrastructure, and some roads lack pedestrian crossings and elevators in transit

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