Kotzebue, AK demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,984
-2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$110,357/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,002
-6.1% year-over-year change

Kotzebue population

How many people live in Kotzebue

Kotzebue is home to 2,984 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.9% of Kotzebue locals are male, and 52.1% are female.

Total population
2,984
-2.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.9%
1,429
Female
52.1%
1,555
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,429 47.9% -6.0%
Female 1,555 52.1% 1.9%
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 Kotzebue is 31, with the population distributed as follows: about 26.4% are children under 15, then 14.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.9% of the population, while another 21.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 7.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
31
Age breakdown
Under 15
26.4%
15 to 24
14.3%
25 to 44
29.9%
45 to 64
21.7%
Over 65
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 787 26.4% -3.0%
15 to 24 426 14.3% 2.9%
25 to 44 892 29.9% -4.3%
45 to 64 648 21.7% -3.6%
Over 65 231 7.7% 6.5%
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 Kotzebue, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 20.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.2% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. Another 62.7% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 13.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,891 96.9% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 52 1.7% -44.7%
Non-citizens 41 1.4% 41.4%
Racial breakdown
White
20.6%
Black or African American
1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
62.7%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
13.3%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 616 20.6%
Black or African American 37 1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,871 62.7%
Asian 24 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 10 0.3%
Two or more races 397 13.3%
Other 29 1%

Households in Kotzebue

A peek inside Kotzebue households

Kotzebue has 796 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.5% are families, while the remaining 31.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
796
-5.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
251
Family households
545
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 251 31.5% -13.8%
Family households 545 68.5% -1.6%
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 Kotzebue

The housing landscape of Kotzebue

Kotzebue's housing consists of 1,002 units, with 57.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 1.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,002
-6.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 572 57.1%
1 unit, attached 6 0.6%
2 units 71 7.1%
3 or 4 units 119 11.9%
5 to 9 units 108 10.8%
10 to 19 units 22 2.2%
20 to 49 units 91 9.1%
Mobile home 13 1.3%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kotzebue

In Kotzebue, the median construction year is 1985. About 0.3% 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.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3 0.3% 200.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3 0.3% -88.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 22 2.2% -63.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 61 6.1% -3.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 242 24.2% 2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 356 35.5% -18.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 225 22.5% 11.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 66 6.6% 135.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 24 2.4% 60.0%
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.

Kotzebue occupancy rates

Out of the 796 occupied housing units in Kotzebue, 48% are owner-occupied, while 52% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 20.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
796
-5.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
414
Owner occupied
382
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 414 52% -13.2%
Owner occupied 382 48% 3.8%
Unoccupied housing units
20.6%
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.

Kotzebue housing costs

Housing costs in Kotzebue come to a median of $1,317 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,565.

Median housing costs per month
$1,317/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 Kotzebue
$1,565/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 Kotzebue

Kotzebue education at a glance

About 45.8% of the population in Kotzebue went to high school, while 27.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 9.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 57 2.8% 29.6%
High school diploma 922 45.8% -2.1%
College diploma 556 27.6% -0.4%
Associate degree 136 6.8% -3.5%
Bachelor's degree 194 9.6% -19.2%
Graduate degree 147 7.3% 8.9%
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 Kotzebue

How much people earn in Kotzebue

The average annual household income in Kotzebue was $132,163 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $110,357, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kotzebue
$132,163/year
7.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kotzebue
$110,357/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Kotzebue income by age

In Kotzebue, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $111,375. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $126,875 overall. Overall, 85.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $111,375 4.5%
45 - 64 $126,875 3.0%
Over 65 $93,472 14.7%
Above poverty level
2,465
Below poverty level
405
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,465 85.9% -3.2%
Below poverty level 405 14.1% 4.9%

Average renter income in Kotzebue

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Kotzebue, their median household income was $86,250 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 21.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$86,250
Rent-to-income ratio
21.8%
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 Kotzebue

Workforce and job types in Kotzebue

The job market in Kotzebue is powered by 1,372 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 1.8% run their own businesses, 31.2% are employed by private companies, and 40.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,372
-4.0% year-over-year change
White collar
1,021
Blue collar
351
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,021 74.4% -0.6%
Blue collar 351 25.6% -12.7%
Employer type
Self employees
1.8%
Private companies
31.2%
Governmental workers
40.4%
Not for profit companies
26.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 24 1.8% -52.9%
Private companies 428 31.2% -11.2%
Governmental workers 555 40.4% 12.8%
Not for profit companies 365 26.6% -9.7%
Unemployment rate
6.2%
-1.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kotzebue stands at 6.2%, 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 Kotzebue

How people get around in Kotzebue

Commuting methods vary: 40.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 44.4% 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 550 40.6% 0.4%
Taxicab 10 0.7% -47.4%
Subway or elevated 1 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 4 0.3% -55.6%
Walk 601 44.4% 0.7%
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 Kotzebue by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
99752 3,056 796 $110,357 $132,163

Explore more communities

FAQs about Kotzebue demographics 

What is the total population of Kotzebue?

Kotzebue has a total population of 2,984 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 -2.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kotzebue?

The gender ratio in Kotzebue is as follows:
  • 47.9% males (1,429 residents)
  • 52.1% females (1,555 residents)

What is the median age in Kotzebue?

The median age in Kotzebue is 31.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kotzebue?

The age distribution in Kotzebue is as follows:
  • Under 15: 26.4% (787 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.3% (426 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.9% (892 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.7% (648 residents)
  • Over 65: 7.7% (231 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kotzebue?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kotzebue is as follows:
  • White: 20.6% (616 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.2% (37 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 62.7% (1,871 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (24 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (10 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13.3% (397 residents)
  • Other: 1% (29 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Kotzebue.

How many housing units are there in Kotzebue?

There are 1,002 housing units in Kotzebue, reflecting a -6.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kotzebue has a total of 796 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kotzebue?

Kotzebue has a median household income of $110,357, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.8% in Kotzebue, with a workforce of 1,372 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.4% (1,021 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.6% (351 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 1.8% (24 residents)
  • Private companies: 31.2% (428 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 40.4% (555 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 26.6% (365 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