Valdez, AK Utility & Living Guide

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Valdez, AK Utility & Living Guide

Valdez is a city in the Chugach Census Area in the U.S. state of Alaska. In 2020, the population of Valdez was 3,985, up slightly from 3,976 in 2010. It is the third most populated city in Alaska's Unorganized Borough.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1000/mo
Sales Tax5%
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Valdez
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Copper Valley Electric Association
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

City of Valdez
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

City of Valdez
📶 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 Valdez is relatively small and competitive, with a limited number of homes available for sale or rent. Many residents own their homes, and there are also some apartments and condos available. The city has implemented measures to encourage affordable housing development

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

$900

Tax Rates

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

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, oil and gas, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Affordable housing, access to healthcare, and environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

Valdez has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible sidewalks and pedestrian paths

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Valdez Museum
  • 🎯
    Keystone Canyon
  • 🎯
    and the Valdez Glacier Lake Trail

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Valdez are the downtown area, which offers easy access to schools, parks, and amenities, and the Robe Lake neighborhood, which has a mix of single-family homes and apartments. The Mineral Creek area is also popular with families, with its scenic views and outdoor recreation opportunities

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📊 Valdez — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Valdez fluctuate by season, with higher electricity costs in the winter due to heating needs, and higher water costs in the summer due to increased tourism and outdoor recreation. Residents can expect to pay around 10-20% more for utilities during the peak winter months

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 99686 has a property tax millage rate of 10.5, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with well-maintained sidewalks, accessible parks, and family-friendly infrastructure, but limited elevator access in public buildings and some uneven terrain

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