Haines, AK Utility & Living Guide

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Haines, 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
Sales Tax5.5%
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Haines
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Alaska Electric Light & Power (AEL&P)
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Haines Borough Public Works
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Haines Borough Solid Waste
📶 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$900

The housing market in Haines is relatively small and competitive, with a mix of older homes and newer constructions. Rentals are scarce, especially during the summer months. Home prices have been steadily increasing due to the area’s growing popularity.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax5.5%
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<p>State 0% + Borough 5.5%</p>

Alaska has no state income tax, but residents may still need to file federal income tax returns

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal views
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including tourism, fishing, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, environmental protection, public services
🚌 Transit for Families

Haines has limited public transportation, but the town is relatively small and walkable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve
  • 🎯
    Haines Sheldon Museum
  • 🎯
    Chilkoot Lake

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and nearby neighborhoods offer a charming, small-town feel, with easy access to amenities and outdoor activities. The Mud Bay Road area is also popular for its scenic views and proximity to the beach.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Haines has regulations regarding building permits, zoning, and environmental protection to preserve its natural beauty and wildlife

Financial Tools

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📊 Haines — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Haines tend to be higher during the winter months due to increased heating needs, while summer months see lower costs. However, the town's mild summers mean that air conditioning is not typically necessary.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The 99827 ZIP code has a property tax millage rate of 10.5 mills, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with explanation: Haines has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks, but the town's hilly terrain and limited public transportation can make it challenging for families with strollers to get around

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