Is Wasilla Safe, Pros and cons of living in Wasilla
Wasilla, Alaska, situated in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, is a city that offers a unique blend of rugged Alaskan wilderness and growing community amenities. Known for its stunning natural surroundings and a slower pace of life, Wasilla has attracted a diverse population seeking both outdoor adventure and a close-knit atmosphere.
The city provides a range of housing options, from single-family homes on spacious lots to more compact living arrangements. Its economy is supported by a variety of industries, with retail and healthcare being significant contributors. Wasilla’s location also makes it a convenient base for exploring the vast landscapes of Southcentral Alaska, offering residents unparalleled access to outdoor recreation.
Is it Safe to Live in Wasilla?
Wasilla’s overall crime rate is higher than the national average, with some sources indicating it is 35% higher than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). Your chance of being a victim of any crime in Wasilla is approximately 1 in 35 (as reported by AreaVibes). Violent crime rates in Wasilla are 25% higher than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes).
Specifically, the chance of being a victim of a violent crime in Wasilla is 1 in 223, while the chance of being a victim of property crime is 1 in 42 (as reported by AreaVibes). NeighborhoodScout reports that Wasilla has a crime rate of 28 per one thousand residents, which is higher than most communities in the U.S. (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Within Alaska, Wasilla’s crime rate is higher than more than 94% of communities in the state (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
Despite these statistics, it is important to note that crime rates can vary significantly by neighborhood within Wasilla. Some areas are considered safer than others, with reports indicating that the southeast part of the city is generally perceived as the safest (as reported by SafeHome.org). Your chance of being a victim of crime can range from 1 in 20 in the south neighborhoods to 1 in 84 in the southeast (as reported by SafeHome.org).
Wasilla’s Cost of Living
The cost of living in Wasilla, Alaska, is generally higher than the national average. Wasilla’s overall cost of living is 13% higher than the national average (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). Housing expenses in Wasilla are 2% higher than the national average (as reported by Payscale).
Utility prices are 11% higher than the national average, and transportation costs, including gas prices and bus fares, are 18% higher than the national average (as reported by Payscale). Grocery prices are also notably higher, being 24% above the national average (as reported by Payscale).
However, when compared to the state average, Wasilla’s cost of living is actually lower. It is 10% less expensive to live in Wasilla than the average city in Alaska (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). For a single person, estimated monthly living costs are around $2,975, and for a family of four, they are approximately $6,551 (as reported by Salary.com).
Housing Costs
Housing in Wasilla offers a range of options, with a prevalence of single-family homes situated on large lots, reflecting a semi-rural environment. Buyers often find more value for their money in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley compared to Anchorage (as reported by Livability.com).
The median home value in Wasilla is approximately $348,384 (as reported by Livability.com), though other sources indicate a median home value of $238,000 (as reported by HouseCashin). Rental housing is more affordable, with a two-bedroom apartment typically costing between $700 and $900 per month (as reported by Livability.com).
More recent data indicates a median listing price of around $481,500 and a median rent of approximately $1,900 per month (as reported by Apartments.com). Zillow reports the average rent for all property types in Wasilla to be $2,083 per month as of May 2026 (as reported by Zillow). This can be attributed to factors such as a 4.79% year-over-year increase in the median sale price (as reported by Apartments.com).
Average Salary and Income
The median household income in Wasilla is approximately $67,234 per year (as reported by Point2Homes). However, other sources suggest a median income of $72,306 (as reported by Livability.com) or a median wage of $44,100 per year (as reported by ZipRecruiter).
The average salary for jobs in Wasilla is reported to be $78,486 per year, or an hourly rate of $38 (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert). This figure represents a wide range of professions, with specialized roles like pharmacists earning significantly more than entry-level positions. For instance, a pilot or registered nurse can earn over $109,000 annually (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert).
The median age in Wasilla is around 35 years (as reported by Point2Homes), with a balanced gender distribution (as reported by Point2Homes). A significant portion of the population, about 17.5%, lives below the poverty line (as reported by Point2Homes).
Job Market and Major Employers
Wasilla’s economy is driven by a growing population and a diverse range of employment opportunities, particularly in the retail and service sectors (as reported by The Economy). Major retail employers include well-known chains such as Walmart, Fred Meyer, and Home Depot, which provide numerous local job opportunities (as reported by The Economy).
The healthcare industry is also a significant employer, with facilities like Mat-Su Health Services and the nearby Mat-Su Regional Medical Center offering a variety of healthcare positions (as reported by Moving to Wasilla: A Closer Look at the Job Opportunities in 2023). The education sector also contributes to the job market, with numerous public and private schools, as well as specialized institutions like Mat-Su College.
Other key industries include construction, manufacturing, and natural resource extraction, with companies involved in metal fabrication, concrete products, and distribution of building materials (as reported by The Economy). Some residents also commute to Anchorage, approximately an hour away, for additional job opportunities (as reported by Moving to Wasilla: A Closer Look at the Job Opportunities in 2023).
Key Industries and Employers
The primary industries in Wasilla are Retail Trade, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Construction (as reported by Data USA). These sectors employ a substantial portion of the local workforce, reflecting the city’s growth and demand for services.
Major employers include large retail chains like Walmart, Fred Meyer, and Home Depot, as well as healthcare providers such as Mat-Su Health Services (as reported by The Economy, Moving to Wasilla: A Closer Look at the Job Opportunities in 2023). Southcentral Foundation, a healthcare provider for Alaska Natives and American Indians, is also a significant employer in the broader region (as reported by Biggest Companies To Work For In Wasilla, AK).
Other notable companies include Spenard Builders Supply, a leading supplier of home improvement and building materials, and Granite Construction, a major diversified heavy civil contractor (as reported by Biggest Companies To Work For In Wasilla, AK). Industrial activities also contribute, with businesses in steel fabrication, agriculture, and manufacturing of concrete and wood products.
Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate in Wasilla is currently reported at 8.2% (as reported by Point2Homes). This figure represents the percentage of the workforce actively seeking employment but without a job.
While this rate is higher than the national average, it’s important to consider the context of Alaska’s overall employment landscape. Statewide, the unemployment rate was 4.7% in March 2026 (as reported by USAFacts). However, unemployment rates can vary significantly by region within Alaska, with some areas experiencing much higher rates.
The employment rate in Wasilla is approximately 91.82% (as reported by BestNeighborhood.org). This indicates that a large majority of the working-age population is employed, despite the reported unemployment rate. Neighborhoods within Wasilla show varying unemployment rates, with some areas having rates as low as 0-5% and others ranging from 10-20% or higher.
Climate and Weather
Wasilla experiences a subarctic climate, characterized by significant seasonal variations. Temperatures throughout the year typically range from 8°F to 68°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The city receives an average annual precipitation of about 17 inches, with an average snowfall of 62 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather).
Winters in Wasilla are long, cold, and snowy, with average high temperatures in January around 22°F and lows reaching 8°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather). Summers are cool and generally cloudy, with July being the warmest month, featuring average highs of 68°F and lows of 50°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather).
The annual precipitation is substantial, with August being the wettest month, receiving around 3 inches of rain (as reported by myPerfectWeather). Snowfall is a significant factor, with December typically seeing the most snow, accumulating around 2.64 inches (as reported by Weather Atlas).
Temperatures
The temperature in Wasilla fluctuates considerably between seasons. During the summer months, from June to August, average high temperatures range from approximately 59.7°F to 63.3°F (as reported by Weather Atlas). The hottest month is July, with average highs reaching about 67°F and lows around 51°F (as reported by Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Wasilla Alaska, United States).
Conversely, winters are quite cold, with the cold season lasting from November to March. January is the coldest month, with average daily high temperatures around 25°F and average daily low temperatures of 11°F (as reported by Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Wasilla Alaska, United States). It is rare for temperatures to drop below -13°F or exceed 76°F throughout the year (as reported by Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Wasilla Alaska, United States).
Rainfall and Snowfall
Wasilla receives an average of 17 inches of precipitation annually, which includes both rain and the liquid equivalent of snow (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The majority of this precipitation occurs during the summer months, with August being the wettest month, averaging about 3.5 inches of rainfall (as reported by Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Wasilla Alaska, United States).
The city experiences a considerable amount of snowfall each year, averaging around 62 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather). Months with snowfall typically include January through May and October through December (as reported by Weather Atlas). December usually sees the most snowfall, with an average accumulation of about 2.64 inches (as reported by Weather Atlas).
The drier period generally occurs from October to March, with March receiving a minimal amount of precipitation, around 0.4 inches (as reported by Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Wasilla Alaska, United States). The number of days with precipitation varies, with September having the most wet days, averaging 12.6 days, while April has the fewest, with about 4.6 days (as reported by Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Wasilla Alaska, United States).
Education in Wasilla
Wasilla’s public school system serves a significant number of students, with approximately 11,798 students attending 25 public schools (as reported by Best Public Schools in Wasilla, AK (2026)). The majority of K-12 students in Wasilla, about 99%, receive their education in public schools (as reported by Best Public Schools in Wasilla, AK (2026)).
Public schools in Wasilla demonstrate strong performance in math proficiency, with an average score of 40%, surpassing the Alaska public school average of 33% (as reported by Best Public Schools in Wasilla, AK (2026)). Reading proficiency is also slightly above the state average, with Wasilla schools averaging 31% compared to the state’s 30% (as reported by Best Public Schools in Wasilla, AK (2026)).
The city is home to several highly-rated schools, including American Charter Academy, Midnight Sun Family Learning Center, and Fred and Sara Machetanz Elementary School, which consistently rank among the top in the state (as reported by Best Public Schools in Wasilla, AK (2026)). John Shaw Elementary is also noted for its high ranking and performance in science and math (as reported by Wasilla public school ratings and districts).
School Ratings and Performance
Wasilla public schools generally receive positive ratings, with an average ranking of 7 out of 10, placing them in the top 50% of Alaska’s public schools (as reported by Best Public Schools in Wasilla, AK (2026)). Several elementary schools, such as John Shaw Elementary, Fred and Sara Machetanz Elementary School, and Midnight Sun Family Learning Center, are recognized for their academic achievements and rank highly within the state (as reported by Wasilla public school ratings and districts).
These schools often outperform district and state averages in key subjects like math and science proficiency (as reported by Wasilla public school ratings and districts). For instance, Wasilla public elementary schools show an average math proficiency of 41% and a reading proficiency of 32%, both exceeding the state averages (as reported by Best Public Elementary Schools in Wasilla, AK (2026)).
However, there is variation in performance across schools, with some, like Meadow Lakes Elementary, demonstrating proficiency rates below 30% (as reported by Wasilla public school ratings and districts). Wasilla High School, for example, has a math proficiency of 17% and a reading proficiency of 22% (as reported by Wasilla High School).
Demographics
Wasilla has a population of approximately 9,720 residents (as reported by Data USA). The city’s population has been growing, with a reported increase of 3.0% year-over-year (as reported by Point2Homes). As of 2026, the projected population is 10,919, reflecting a continued growth trend (as reported by Wasilla, Alaska Population 2026).
The racial makeup of Wasilla is predominantly White, accounting for about 72% of the population (as reported by Point2Homes). Other significant racial groups include American Indian or Alaska Native (around 9.71%) and those identifying with two or more races (about 10% to 12.51%) (as reported by Wasilla, Alaska Population 2026, Wasilla Demographics and Statistics).
The median age in Wasilla is approximately 34.8 years (as reported by Wasilla, Alaska Population 2026). The population is fairly evenly split between males and females, with 50% in each category (as reported by Wasilla Demographics and Statistics).
Pros and Cons of Living in Wasilla
Living in Wasilla offers a distinct Alaskan experience with both appealing advantages and notable challenges. The city’s natural beauty and access to outdoor activities are significant draws for many residents. Wasilla is situated in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, providing ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the wilderness.
However, Wasilla also presents certain drawbacks that prospective residents should consider. The cost of living is higher than the national average, particularly for utilities and transportation. Furthermore, crime rates in Wasilla are higher than the national average, which is a concern for those prioritizing safety.
Pros
One of the primary advantages of living in Wasilla is its stunning natural environment and the abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. Residents have easy access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and the general Alaskan wilderness, making it an ideal location for nature enthusiasts (as reported by Livability.com). The housing market, while having a higher median home value than the national average, offers more value compared to Anchorage (as reported by Livability.com).
The community atmosphere in Wasilla is often described as close-knit, fostering a sense of belonging for its residents. The city is also a retail and service hub for a wider region, offering a good selection of shopping and dining options that might be unexpected for its population size (as reported by The Economy). Additionally, Alaska has no state sales tax or state income tax, which can be a significant financial benefit (as reported by Moving to Wasilla: A Closer Look at the Job Opportunities in 2023).
Wasilla’s public schools also present a positive aspect, with strong performance in math proficiency, exceeding the state average (as reported by Best Public Schools in Wasilla, AK (2026)). The median age of the population is relatively young, suggesting a dynamic community (as reported by Wasilla, Alaska Population 2026).
Cons
A significant drawback to living in Wasilla is its higher cost of living compared to the national average. Housing expenses are slightly above the national average, and utility and transportation costs are notably higher (as reported by Payscale). Grocery prices are also 24% higher than the national average (as reported by Payscale).
The crime rate in Wasilla is another considerable concern, being higher than both the national and state averages (as reported by NeighborhoodScout, AreaVibes). While safety can vary by neighborhood, the overall statistics indicate a higher risk of both violent and property crimes. The median home value, while offering good value within Alaska, is still higher than the national median (as reported by HouseCashin).
The climate presents challenges, with long, cold, and snowy winters. The average high temperature in January is around 22°F, and snowfall can be substantial throughout the winter months (as reported by myPerfectWeather). Additionally, the unemployment rate in Wasilla is higher than the national average, though the employment rate remains high (as reported by Point2Homes, USAFacts).