City Profile
Juneau, Alaska
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Juneau, Alaska, the state capital, is a unique city nestled between towering mountains and the Gastineau Channel, making it accessible primarily by air or sea. Its character is deeply intertwined with its stunning natural surroundings, offering residents and visitors unparalleled access to outdoor adventures. The city's history is rooted in the Gold Rush era, and today it maintains a distinct blend of government, tourism, and resource-based industries. People are drawn to Juneau for its breathtaking scenery, close-knit community feel, and the opportunity to live amidst a temperate rainforest environment. Despite its remote location, Juneau provides a vibrant lifestyle for those who appreciate wilderness and a strong sense of place.
Alaska, the largest U.S. state by land area, is characterized by its vast, rugged wilderness and diverse climates, ranging from temperate maritime in the southeast to arctic in the north. Its economy is heavily reliant on natural resources, with major industries including oil and gas, mining, fishing, and a growing tourism sector. Living in Alaska is generally more expensive than the national average, particularly for housing, groceries, and utilities, though there is no state income or sales tax, and residents may receive an annual Permanent Fund Dividend. The lifestyle often emphasizes a strong connection to nature and outdoor activities, with a sense of community and resilience, though residents must adapt to long, dark winters in many areas.
How this 51/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 30% | 21.0 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 133.0 | 2.5 | 25% | 0.6 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $101,661 Income needed to live here: $74,400 Unemployment rate: 3.5% | 76.0 | 20% | 15.2 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: no usable reading Job growth rate: 1.5% | 50.0 | 15% | 7.5 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 51.3 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=91 ✓ perfect), last refreshed
2 July 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Juneau is notably higher than the national average, standing approximately 32.6% above it. This elevated cost is primarily driven by housing expenses, which are about 41.8% more expensive than the national average. Utilities also contribute significantly to the higher costs, being around 41.1% above national levels.
Groceries are another major factor, with prices approximately 28.9% higher than the national average, and transportation costs are about 21.9% higher. These figures reflect Juneau's isolated geography, which necessitates shipping most goods and services into the region, thereby increasing consumer prices. While some costs, like public transit fares, can be affordable, the overall expense of daily life requires a higher income to maintain a comfortable standard of living.
Income
Salary Insights
Juneau's economy is characterized by strong sectors in tourism, mining, and government, which serve as primary employers. In 2024, Juneau saw a 1.5% increase in average monthly employment, with the private sector adding 1.3% more jobs. The tourism industry continues to expand, reaching record numbers of cruise ship passengers in 2025 and adding approximately 100 jobs in 2024. The mining sector is also a significant economic contributor, known for offering high-paying jobs and experiencing employment growth over the past four years.
Looking ahead to 2026, while Southeast Alaska generally anticipates a drop in jobs due to federal workforce reductions, specific industries like construction, healthcare, and transportation, trade, and utilities are projected to see growth in Juneau. The city's unique position as a state capital and a major port for cruise ships helps sustain its economic activity. Remote work opportunities exist, but the local job market is heavily influenced by these core industries and the seasonal nature of tourism.
The average salary in Juneau is $65,000 per year. You would need approximately $74,400 to live comfortably.
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Mobility
Transport
Getting around Juneau primarily involves driving, though the city's compact nature allows for relatively short commutes. The average commute time for workers in Juneau was 15.1 minutes in 2024. Public transportation options are available, with Juneau having a transit score of 38, indicating some public transportation options. The city's average Walk Score is 21, suggesting that most errands require a car, though certain areas are very walkable.
Juneau's unique geography, with no roads connecting it to other major cities, means that travel outside the immediate area relies on air or ferry services. The Alaska Marine Highway System is a vital link for residents and for transporting vehicles. While public transit exists, the car remains a primary mode of transport for many, contributing to a medium car dependency.
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Community Q&A
Questions about Juneau
What people ask about living in and moving to Juneau, Alaska.
How are the public schools rated in Juneau?
Juneau’s public schools are administered by the local school district, which reports performance metrics on its website. Generally, the district’s schools perform at or slightly above the state average on standardized tests, with strong programs in science and outdoor education that take advantage of the surrounding environment. For detailed information on individual school ratings, graduation rates, and extracurricu...
What public transportation options exist in Juneau?
Juneau’s public transit is provided by the city’s transit authority, which operates a network of bus routes covering most residential areas, downtown, and key employment centers. Buses run on a regular schedule, with reduced service on weekends and holidays. Fares are modest, and discounted passes are available for students, seniors, and low‑income riders. For real‑time schedules and route maps, visit the transit aut...
How does the cost of living in Juneau compare to the U.S. average?
Juneau’s cost‑of‑living index is 133, meaning expenses are about 33 % higher than the national average. Housing is the biggest driver, with average rent at $1,860 per month, which is well above the U.S. median. Groceries, utilities, and transportation also tend to be pricier because many goods must be shipped in. On the upside, the average salary in Juneau is $65,000 per year, which helps offset the higher prices. Wh...
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Juneau?
The average rent across all unit sizes in Juneau is $1,860 per month, and one‑bedroom apartments in central areas usually fall near that figure, sometimes a bit lower or higher depending on exact location and amenities. Rental listings are posted on regional online platforms and through local property management firms. Because the market is relatively small, it’s a good idea to start your search early, set a budget t...
What should I know about moving belongings to Juneau?
Because Juneau is only reachable by boat or plane, moving household goods typically involves freight shipping via the regional ferry system or air cargo. Prices are higher than mainland moves due to the logistics of handling and transporting items over water. To estimate costs, contact freight companies that specialize in Alaskan moves and request quotes based on volume and weight. The city’s moving resources page of...
What kinds of jobs pay around the city’s average salary?
Juneau’s average salary is $65,000 per year, reflecting a mix of government, education, healthcare, tourism, and natural‑resource positions. Jobs that commonly reach or exceed this average include roles in state and municipal administration, teaching and university staff, medical professionals, and specialists in fisheries, forestry, or environmental consulting. The city also has a growing tourism sector with managem...
Is Juneau considered a safe place to live?
Juneau has a safety score of 70 out of 100, indicating a moderate level of safety compared to other U.S. cities. Crime rates are generally lower than the national average, especially for violent offenses, but property crime can be higher in certain neighborhoods. The city’s police department publishes annual crime statistics on its website, which can help you identify areas with lower incident rates. Practicing typic...
What outdoor activities are popular for newcomers in Juneau?
Juneau’s natural setting provides abundant outdoor recreation. The city maintains a system of trails that lead to coastal viewpoints, forested ridges, and historic sites, many of which are suitable for day hikes. Kayaking and paddle‑boarding are popular on the surrounding waterways, with launch points accessible from public parks. The local parks department’s website lists trail maps, difficulty levels, and seasonal...
What’s the climate like year‑round in Juneau?
Juneau has a maritime climate with mild, wet winters and cool, relatively dry summers. Average high temperatures range from the mid‑30s °F (1‑2 °C) in winter to the mid‑60s °F (18‑20 °C) in summer. Precipitation is frequent, with rain or drizzle common most days, especially from October through March. Snowfall occurs but is usually moderate compared to interior Alaska. Residents rely on layered clothing, waterproof o...
Where can I find primary care doctors and hospitals in Juneau?
Juneau has a regional medical center that offers emergency, inpatient, and specialty services, as well as several outpatient clinics and private practices providing primary care. The city’s health department website includes a provider directory where you can search for doctors by specialty, location, and insurance acceptance. For chronic‑condition management, look for clinics that offer coordinated care programs or...
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