Fairbanks, AK demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
32,083
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$73,534/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,793
-0.9% year-over-year change

Fairbanks population

How many people live in Fairbanks

Fairbanks is home to 32,083 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 54.2% of Fairbanks locals are male, and 45.8% are female.

Total population
32,083
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
54.2%
17,373
Female
45.8%
14,710
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,373 54.2% 0.4%
Female 14,710 45.8% -1.6%
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 Fairbanks is 29, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.8% are children under 15, then 19% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33% of the population, while another 15.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
29
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.8%
15 to 24
19%
25 to 44
33%
45 to 64
15.3%
Over 65
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,677 20.8% -5.0%
15 to 24 6,091 19% -0.7%
25 to 44 10,595 33% 3.3%
45 to 64 4,909 15.3% -3.7%
Over 65 3,811 11.9% 2.2%
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 Fairbanks, 88.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 57.7% of locals are Caucasian, 8.4% are African American and 4.2% have Asian roots. Another 8.9% are Indigenous American, 0.9% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.6%
Non-citizens
2.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 28,535 88.9% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,744 8.6% 2.2%
Non-citizens 804 2.5% -2.5%
Racial breakdown
White
57.7%
Black or African American
8.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
8.9%
Asian
4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.9%
Two or more races
16.4%
Other
3.5%
Value Percent
White 18,504 57.7%
Black or African American 2,694 8.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,867 8.9%
Asian 1,354 4.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 277 0.9%
Two or more races 5,272 16.4%
Other 1,115 3.5%

Households in Fairbanks

A peek inside Fairbanks households

Fairbanks has 12,071 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.8% are families, while the remaining 38.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,071
-1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,609
Family households
7,462
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,609 38.2% 1.0%
Family households 7,462 61.8% -2.3%
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 Fairbanks

The housing landscape of Fairbanks

Fairbanks's housing consists of 13,793 units, with 33.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 13.8% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,793
-0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,646 33.7%
1 unit, attached 1,909 13.8%
2 units 883 6.4%
3 or 4 units 1,973 14.3%
5 to 9 units 1,525 11.1%
10 to 19 units 670 4.9%
20 to 49 units 900 6.5%
50 or more units 1,186 8.6%
Mobile home 59 0.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 42 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
14
-12.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fairbanks

In Fairbanks, the median construction year is 1979. About 1.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 247 1.8% -14.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 512 3.7% 18.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,894 13.7% -2.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,236 9% -10.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,180 23.1% 1.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,150 22.8% 4.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 964 7% -2.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,648 12% -3.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 948 6.9% -7.0%
Built in 2020 or later 14 0.1% -12.5%
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.

Fairbanks occupancy rates

Out of the 12,071 occupied housing units in Fairbanks, 39.8% are owner-occupied, while 60.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,071
-1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,262
Owner occupied
4,809
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,262 60.2% 0.0%
Owner occupied 4,809 39.8% -2.7%
Unoccupied housing units
12.5%
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.

Fairbanks housing costs

Housing costs in Fairbanks come to a median of $1,529 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,496.

Median housing costs per month
$1,529/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 Fairbanks
$1,496/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 Fairbanks

Fairbanks education at a glance

About 37% of the population in Fairbanks went to high school, while 29.8% pursued college studies. Another 8.7% earned an associate degree and 16% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 488 2% -13.0%
High school diploma 8,944 37% 3.0%
College diploma 7,201 29.8% -4.5%
Associate degree 2,104 8.7% -0.3%
Bachelor's degree 3,861 16% 3.3%
Graduate degree 1,597 6.6% -1.5%
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 Fairbanks

How much people earn in Fairbanks

The average annual household income in Fairbanks was $89,815 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $73,534, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fairbanks
$89,815/year
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fairbanks
$73,534/year
2.0% year-over-year change

Fairbanks income by age

In Fairbanks, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $78,714. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,751 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,054, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $83,125 in earnings. Overall, 91.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,054 2.5%
25 - 44 $78,714 4.6%
45 - 64 $76,751 -0.9%
Over 65 $83,125 13.0%
Above poverty level
26,482
Below poverty level
2,487
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 26,482 91.4% 0.7%
Below poverty level 2,487 8.6% -9.6%

Average renter income in Fairbanks

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fairbanks, their median household income was $58,071 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$58,071
Rent-to-income ratio
30.9%
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 Fairbanks

Workforce and job types in Fairbanks

The job market in Fairbanks is powered by 12,331 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.9% run their own businesses, 56.4% are employed by private companies, and 22.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,331
2.2% year-over-year change
White collar
9,523
Blue collar
2,808
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,523 77.2% 1.0%
Blue collar 2,808 22.8% 6.5%
Employer type
Self employees
7.9%
Private companies
56.4%
Governmental workers
22.8%
Not for profit companies
12.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 976 7.9% 7.0%
Private companies 6,949 56.4% 2.1%
Governmental workers 2,812 22.8% 0.4%
Not for profit companies 1,594 12.9% 3.2%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
1.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fairbanks stands at 5.7%, 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 Fairbanks

How people get around in Fairbanks

In Fairbanks, the average commute time is 14 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 80.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 9.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
14 min
2.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,635 80.3% 1.3%
Taxicab 66 0.4% 407.7%
Bus or trolleybus 186 1.1% -11.0%
Bicycle 451 2.6% 83.3%
Walk 1,556 9.2% 0.9%
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 Fairbanks by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
99701 18,061 7,590 $75,668 $90,605
99703 8,304 1,848 $68,667 $86,060
99706 24 10 $0 $26,080
99709 29,551 12,509 $86,294 $115,821
99712 12,477 4,777 $112,808 $127,420
99775 826 111 $71,959 $71,914

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FAQs about Fairbanks demographics 

What is the total population of Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a total population of 32,083 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fairbanks?

The gender ratio in Fairbanks is as follows:
  • 54.2% males (17,373 residents)
  • 45.8% females (14,710 residents)

What is the median age in Fairbanks?

The median age in Fairbanks is 29.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fairbanks?

The age distribution in Fairbanks is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.8% (6,677 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 19% (6,091 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33% (10,595 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 15.3% (4,909 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.9% (3,811 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fairbanks?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fairbanks is as follows:
  • White: 57.7% (18,504 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.4% (2,694 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 8.9% (2,867 residents)
  • Asian: 4.2% (1,354 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.9% (277 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.4% (5,272 residents)
  • Other: 3.5% (1,115 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.9% of the population in Fairbanks.

How many housing units are there in Fairbanks?

There are 13,793 housing units in Fairbanks, reflecting a -0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fairbanks has a total of 12,071 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a median household income of $73,534, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Fairbanks?

The employment rate is 94.3% in Fairbanks, with a workforce of 12,331 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.2% (9,523 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.8% (2,808 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.9% (976 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.4% (6,949 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.8% (2,812 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.9% (1,594 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