Big Lake, AK demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,585
8.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$81,406/yr
6.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,770
0.3% year-over-year change

Big Lake population

How many people live in Big Lake

Big Lake is home to 3,585 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of Big Lake locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
3,585
8.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
1,823
Female
49.2%
1,762
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,823 50.8% 1.7%
Female 1,762 49.2% 17.6%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Big Lake is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.3% are children under 15, then 8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.8% of the population, while another 26.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.3%
15 to 24
8%
25 to 44
30.8%
45 to 64
26.4%
Over 65
15.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 691 19.3% 13.5%
15 to 24 286 8% -25.9%
25 to 44 1,103 30.8% 15.9%
45 to 64 945 26.4% 6.5%
Over 65 560 15.6% 22.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Big Lake, 98.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. Another 3.9% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,521 98.2% 10.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 50 1.4% -38.3%
Non-citizens 14 0.4% 75.0%
Racial breakdown
White
86%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.9%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.5%
Other
2.2%
Value Percent
White 3,082 86%
Black or African American 12 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 139 3.9%
Asian 37 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0.1%
Two or more races 233 6.5%
Other 78 2.2%

Households in Big Lake

A peek inside Big Lake households

Big Lake has 1,461 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 68% are families, while the remaining 32% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,461
9.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
467
Family households
994
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 467 32% 1.5%
Family households 994 68% 13.6%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Big Lake

The housing landscape of Big Lake

Big Lake's housing consists of 2,770 units, with 88.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,770
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,463 88.9%
1 unit, attached 32 1.2%
2 units 142 5.1%
3 or 4 units 32 1.2%
5 to 9 units 11 0.4%
10 to 19 units 7 0.2%
Mobile home 83 3%
Homes built since 2020
40
48.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Big Lake

In Big Lake, the median construction year is 1993. About 0.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 22.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 7 0.2% 0.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 9 0.3% -30.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 59 2.1% -38.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 255 9.2% -5.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 488 17.6% 0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 358 12.9% -4.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 620 22.4% 2.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 617 22.3% 6.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 317 11.4% 3.9%
Built in 2020 or later 40 1.4% 48.1%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Big Lake occupancy rates

Out of the 1,461 occupied housing units in Big Lake, 81.9% are owner-occupied, while 18.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 47.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,461
9.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
264
Owner occupied
1,197
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 264 18.1% -11.1%
Owner occupied 1,197 81.9% 15.3%
Unoccupied housing units
47.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Big Lake housing costs

Housing costs in Big Lake come to a median of $1,281 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,235.

Median housing costs per month
$1,281/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Big Lake
$1,235/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Big Lake

Big Lake education at a glance

About 52.5% of the population in Big Lake went to high school, while 20.4% pursued college studies. Another 9.5% earned an associate degree and 12.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 34 1.2% 54.5%
High school diploma 1,455 52.5% 7.6%
College diploma 565 20.4% 15.5%
Associate degree 264 9.5% 8.2%
Bachelor's degree 347 12.5% 9.1%
Graduate degree 107 3.9% -18.9%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Big Lake

How much people earn in Big Lake

The average annual household income in Big Lake was $105,427 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $81,406, reflecting a +6.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Big Lake
$105,427/year
4.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Big Lake
$81,406/year
6.7% year-over-year change

Big Lake income by age

In Big Lake, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $107,015. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $65,948 overall. Overall, 88.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $107,015 2.5%
45 - 64 $65,948 -2.7%
Over 65 $69,722 6.8%
Above poverty level
3,109
Below poverty level
409
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,109 88.4% 9.7%
Below poverty level 409 11.6% -0.5%

Average renter income in Big Lake

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Big Lake, their median household income was $44,007 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$44,007
Rent-to-income ratio
33.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Big Lake

Workforce and job types in Big Lake

The job market in Big Lake is powered by 1,670 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 59.8% are employed by private companies, and 19.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,670
8.3% year-over-year change
White collar
1,173
Blue collar
497
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,173 70.2% 11.9%
Blue collar 497 29.8% 0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
59.8%
Governmental workers
19.8%
Not for profit companies
11.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 151 9% -3.2%
Private companies 999 59.8% 6.6%
Governmental workers 331 19.8% 30.3%
Not for profit companies 189 11.3% -3.1%
Unemployment rate
3.1%
-14.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Big Lake stands at 3.1%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Big Lake

How people get around in Big Lake

Commuting methods vary: 71% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,165 71% 9.9%
Walk 11 0.7% -31.2%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Big Lake by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
99652 4,313 1,791 $78,578 $102,240

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FAQs about Big Lake demographics 

What is the total population of Big Lake?

Big Lake has a total population of 3,585 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +8.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Big Lake?

The gender ratio in Big Lake is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (1,823 residents)
  • 49.2% females (1,762 residents)

What is the median age in Big Lake?

The median age in Big Lake is 38.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Big Lake?

The age distribution in Big Lake is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.3% (691 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8% (286 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.8% (1,103 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.4% (945 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.6% (560 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Big Lake?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Big Lake is as follows:
  • White: 86% (3,082 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (12 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.9% (139 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (37 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.5% (233 residents)
  • Other: 2.2% (78 residents)

What percentage of the population in Big Lake are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.2% of the population in Big Lake.

How many housing units are there in Big Lake?

There are 2,770 housing units in Big Lake, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Big Lake and what is the average household size?

Big Lake has a total of 1,461 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Big Lake?

Big Lake has a median household income of $81,406, representing a +6.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Big Lake?

The employment rate is 96.9% in Big Lake, with a workforce of 1,670 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.2% (1,173 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.8% (497 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (151 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.8% (999 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.8% (331 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.3% (189 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025