Whittier, AK Utility & Living Guide

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Whittier, AK Utility & Living Guide

Utilities, housing, taxes, cost of living, and local insights — everything residents and families need.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1000/mo
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Whittier
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Whittier
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Chugach Electric Association
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

City of Whittier Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$300/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1000/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Whittier is limited, with few homes available for purchase or rent. Many residents live in condominiums or apartments, and prices can be high due to the town’s remote location. Despite this, the community is close-knit and welcoming to newcomers

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

100

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<p>No state sales tax, no county sales tax, no city sales tax</p>

Alaska has no state income tax, making it an attractive option for those looking to minimize their tax burden

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including tourism, outdoor recreation, and tech
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, access to healthcare, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

Whittier has limited public transportation, but the town is small and walkable, making it easy to get around with a stroller

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Prince William Sound Museum
  • 🎯
    Whittier Harbor
  • 🎯
    Portage Glacier

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The Begich Towers neighborhood is a popular choice for families, with its convenient location and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Whittier Heights neighborhood is also desirable, with its newer homes and easy access to outdoor recreation

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Whittier has strict building codes and zoning regulations to protect the town’s natural environment and maintain its small-town character

Financial Tools

Calculators
Planning Tools

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📊 Whittier — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Whittier can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity bills in the winter due to heating and lower bills in the summer. Water usage also tends to be higher in the summer, when residents are more likely to be outdoors and using water for gardening and other activities

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 99693 has a property tax millage rate of 10.5, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks and easy access to parks and outdoor recreation, but limited elevator access in some buildings and a lack of public transportation options

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