Fairbanks North Star County, AK demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
77,293
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$86,294/yr
21.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
33,553
-0.2% year-over-year change

Fairbanks North Star County population

How many people live in Fairbanks North Star County

Fairbanks North Star County is home to 77,293 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.2% of Fairbanks North Star County locals are male, and 44.8% are female.

Total population
77,293
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.2%
42,638
Female
44.8%
34,655
Value Percent YoY change
Male 42,638 55.2% 0.1%
Female 34,655 44.8% -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 North Star County is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.2% are children under 15, then 16.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.2% of the population, while another 20% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.2%
15 to 24
16.2%
25 to 44
31.2%
45 to 64
20%
Over 65
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 15,620 20.2% -2.4%
15 to 24 12,551 16.2% 0.1%
25 to 44 24,148 31.2% -0.9%
45 to 64 15,501 20% -2.2%
Over 65 9,473 12.3% 4.5%
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 Fairbanks North Star County, 90.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 71.1% of locals are Caucasian, 4% are African American and 2.3% have Asian roots. Another 4.6% are Indigenous American, 0.6% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 14.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.7%
Non-citizens
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 70,125 90.7% -1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,157 6.7% 8.6%
Non-citizens 2,011 2.6% 7.1%
Racial breakdown
White
71.1%
Black or African American
4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
4.6%
Asian
2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.6%
Two or more races
14.9%
Other
2.6%
Value Percent
White 54,969 71.1%
Black or African American 3,053 4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,532 4.6%
Asian 1,811 2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 444 0.6%
Two or more races 11,516 14.9%
Other 1,968 2.6%

Households in Fairbanks North Star County

A peek inside Fairbanks North Star County households

Fairbanks North Star County has 28,524 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.9% are families, while the remaining 35.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
28,524
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
10,022
Family households
18,502
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 10,022 35.1% 2.3%
Family households 18,502 64.9% -0.7%
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 North Star County

The housing landscape of Fairbanks North Star County

Fairbanks North Star County's housing consists of 33,553 units, with 65.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9% 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 3.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
33,553
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 22,036 65.7%
1 unit, attached 3,028 9%
2 units 1,627 4.8%
3 or 4 units 2,071 6.2%
5 to 9 units 1,713 5.1%
10 to 19 units 695 2.1%
20 to 49 units 660 2%
50 or more units 610 1.8%
Mobile home 1,071 3.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 42 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
295
39.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fairbanks North Star County

In Fairbanks North Star County, the median construction year is 1985. About 0.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 18.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 174 0.5% 16.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 165 0.5% -26.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 917 2.7% 0.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,871 5.6% 12.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 7,944 23.7% -0.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 8,425 25.1% -6.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,557 13.6% 2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,104 18.2% 2.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,101 9.2% 1.5%
Built in 2020 or later 295 0.9% 39.8%
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 North Star County occupancy rates

Out of the 28,524 occupied housing units in Fairbanks North Star County, 65.9% are owner-occupied, while 34.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
28,524
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,737
Owner occupied
18,787
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,737 34.1% -0.1%
Owner occupied 18,787 65.9% 0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
15.0%
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 North Star County housing costs

Housing costs in Fairbanks North Star County come to a median of $1,448 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,477.

Median housing costs per month
$1,448/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 North Star County
$1,477/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 North Star County

Fairbanks North Star County education at a glance

About 32.1% of the population in Fairbanks North Star County went to high school, while 25.9% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 18.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 599 1% -15.0%
High school diploma 18,826 32.1% 5.3%
College diploma 15,195 25.9% -9.0%
Associate degree 5,874 10% 5.7%
Bachelor's degree 11,024 18.8% 4.3%
Graduate degree 7,102 12.1% -6.5%
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 North Star County

How much people earn in Fairbanks North Star County

The average annual household income in Fairbanks North Star County was $104,542 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $86,294, reflecting a +21.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fairbanks North Star County
$104,542/year
6.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fairbanks North Star County
$86,294/year
21.5% year-over-year change

Fairbanks North Star County income by age

In Fairbanks North Star County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $102,845. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $119,468 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,436, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $72,292 in earnings. Overall, 95% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,436 1.4%
25 - 44 $102,845 17.9%
45 - 64 $119,468 15.4%
Over 65 $72,292 1.6%
Above poverty level
68,996
Below poverty level
3,664
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 68,996 95% -1.3%
Below poverty level 3,664 5% 2.4%

Employment in Fairbanks North Star County

Workforce and job types in Fairbanks North Star County

79.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11% run their own businesses, 53.7% are employed by private companies, and 24.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
25,224
Blue collar
6,680
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 25,224 79.1% -1.5%
Blue collar 6,680 20.9% -4.7%
Employer type
Self employees
11%
Private companies
53.7%
Governmental workers
24.9%
Not for profit companies
10.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,506 11% -7.2%
Private companies 17,135 53.7% 1.6%
Governmental workers 7,954 24.9% -5.6%
Not for profit companies 3,309 10.4% -6.7%

Transportation in Fairbanks North Star County

How people get around in Fairbanks North Star County

In Fairbanks North Star County, the average commute time is 44 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
44 min
-32.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 32,517 91.4% -2.4%
Bus or trolleybus 120 0.3% -41.2%
Railroad 9 0% N/A
Motorcycle 37 0.1% 19.4%
Bicycle 608 1.7% 83.1%
Walk 2,276 6.4% 1.6%
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 North Star County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
99702 3,260 869 $68,640 $93,014
99703 8,304 1,848 $68,667 $86,060
99705 21,769 7,934 $96,964 $130,237
99709 29,551 12,509 $86,294 $115,821
99712 12,477 4,777 $112,808 $127,420
99714 1,106 476 $88,258 $107,328
99775 826 111 $71,959 $71,914

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FAQs about Fairbanks North Star County demographics 

What is the total population of Fairbanks North Star County?

Fairbanks North Star County has a total population of 77,293 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fairbanks North Star County?

The gender ratio in Fairbanks North Star County is as follows:
  • 55.2% males (42,638 residents)
  • 44.8% females (34,655 residents)

What is the median age in Fairbanks North Star County?

The median age in Fairbanks North Star County is 33.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fairbanks North Star County?

The age distribution in Fairbanks North Star County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.2% (15,620 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.2% (12,551 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.2% (24,148 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20% (15,501 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.3% (9,473 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fairbanks North Star County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fairbanks North Star County is as follows:
  • White: 71.1% (54,969 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4% (3,053 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 4.6% (3,532 residents)
  • Asian: 2.3% (1,811 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.6% (444 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.9% (11,516 residents)
  • Other: 2.6% (1,968 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.7% of the population in Fairbanks North Star County.

How many housing units are there in Fairbanks North Star County?

There are 33,553 housing units in Fairbanks North Star County, reflecting a -0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fairbanks North Star County has a total of 28,524 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fairbanks North Star County?

Fairbanks North Star County has a median household income of $86,294, representing a +21.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Fairbanks North Star County?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.1% (25,224 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.9% (6,680 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11% (3,506 residents)
  • Private companies: 53.7% (17,135 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 24.9% (7,954 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.4% (3,309 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