Willow, AK Utility & Living Guide

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Willow, AK Utility & Living Guide

Willows, also called sallows and osiers, of the genus Salix, comprise around 350 species of typically deciduous trees and shrubs. They are primarily found on moist soils in cold and temperate regions.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1000/mo
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Willow
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Willow
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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

Willow Water Utility
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Matanuska-Susitna 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$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Willow is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. However, the market can be competitive, especially for newer homes. Rentals are also available, but may be limited.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

110

Transportation

90

Healthcare

95

Childcare/mo

$900

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

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 including tourism, outdoor recreation, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Affordable housing, infrastructure development, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit in Willow is limited, but the town has a walkable downtown area and some sidewalks, making it possible to get around with a stroller

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Willow Creek
  • 🎯
    Nancy Lake
  • 🎯
    Susitna River

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods are popular with families, offering a mix of older and newer homes and easy access to amenities. The nearby lakes and rivers also offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Household Budget Calculator

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📊 Willow — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Willow can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity costs in the winter due to heating needs. In the summer, costs are lower, but may still be higher than in other parts of the country due to the town's remote location.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 99688 has a property tax millage rate of 10.5, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, due to limited sidewalks and public transit options, but a walkable downtown area and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities

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