Cost of Living in Aleutians West Census Area, AK

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Aleutians West Census Area? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $7,241 per year — Alaska levies no state income tax, so that figure covers federal tax only. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($2,191/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Aleutians West Census Area metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $36,467, or roughly $3,039 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Aleutians West Census Area represents approximately 38% of gross income. That is well above what most financial advisors recommend, indicating that Aleutians West Census Area is a financial stretch at a $70,000 salary without roommates or a higher-earning household. Alaska's zero income tax helps offset the rent burden compared to otherwise similar cities that also levy state income tax.