Matanuska Susitna County Demographics

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Matanuska-Susitna Borough in Alaska had a population of approximately 107,801. The racial composition was predominantly White (79.1%), followed by Native American/Alaska Native (6.3%), Hispanic or Latino (6.2%), and those identifying as Two or More Races (5.4%). The median household income was $74,896, with about 9% of the population living below the poverty line. The borough covers an area of 25,258 square miles, making it the fastest-growing region in Alaska.

Matanuska Susitna County Housing

As of the most recent data, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK, median home value is approximately $277,000. The area has experienced roughly 5.5% increase in home values over the past year. The median rent is about $1,200 per month. The region has a homeownership rate of around 75%, with about 25% renters. The average household size is 2.8 individuals. Housing availability includes a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and rural properties.

Elections in Matanuska Susitna County

Matanuska-Susitna Borough, often referred to as Mat-Su, holds various local elections including positions for Assembly Members, School Board Members, and Mayor. As of the last election cycle, voter turnout in the borough was approximately 30%. For the Assembly elections, candidates differ by district.

In the most recent mayoral race, incumbent Edna DeVries faced off against challenger Clayton Tew. DeVries secured 56% of the vote, totaling 12,800 votes, while Tew received 44%, with 10,000 votes.

Local school board elections in districts like Wasilla and Palmer commonly feature 2-3 candidates competing for each seat. For example, in Wasilla, John Smith won with 5,200 votes (52%), while competitors Alice Johnson and Mike Benson received 3,700 votes (37%) and 1,200 votes (11%), respectively.

These elections are crucial for the governance of the borough's rapidly growing population, estimated at around 107,000 residents.

How Educated in Matanuska Susitna County

Matanuska-Susitna Borough, commonly called Mat-Su, in Alaska has an educational profile that reveals certain disparities when compared to state and national averages. As of recent data:

  • High School Graduation Rate: Approximately 93%, higher than the national average of around 88%.
  • Bachelor’s Degree or Higher (25 years and older): About 22%, which is below the national average of around 32% and below the Alaska state average of approximately 29%.
  • Some College, No Degree: Around 26%, close to the state average of 27%.

These figures indicate that while high school education completion is robust, the attainment of higher education degrees in Mat-Su falls behind national and state averages.

Matanuska Susitna County Employment Rate

As of recent data, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, has an employment landscape characterized by diverse industries. Key employment sectors include education, health services, and retail trade. In numerical terms, significant portions of the workforce are employed in health care and social assistance (approx. 17%) and retail trade (approx. 13%).

Comparatively, healthcare and social assistance employment in Matanuska-Susitna Borough is higher than the national average of around 14%. Retail trade employment aligns closely with the national figure of about 11%. Alaska’s state averages for these sectors mirror these trends, though with a slightly higher reliance on natural resources and tourism related services.

Overall, Matanuska-Susitna Borough's employment distribution showcases a prominence in healthcare and retail, reflecting broader state averages while highlighting regional specifics such as higher proportional employment in education and health services.

Average Income in Matanuska Susitna County

Matanuska-Susitna Borough in Alaska has an average household income of approximately $80,000. This is slightly above the national average household income, which is around $68,700. Comparatively, it is also just above the Alaska state average household income, which is approximately $77,640.

Region Average Household Income
Matanuska-Susitna, AK $80,000
United States $68,700
Alaska Statewide $77,640

The figures reflect economic conditions and living standards as of the most recent available data. Matanuska-Susitna Borough benefits from a diverse economy, which supports this income level.

Matanuska Susitna County Crime Rates

As of the most recent data available, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, has a diverse crime profile. Here's a brief overview of the crime rates in the area:

  • Violent Crime Rate: Approximately 4.7 per 1,000 residents
  • Property Crime Rate: Approximately 21.3 per 1,000 residents

Crime Statistics Table:

Type of Crime Rate per 1,000 Residents
Violent Crimes 4.7
Property Crimes 21.3
Murder 0.03
Rape 1.1
Robbery 0.4
Aggravated Assault 3.2
Burglary 5.3
Larceny/Theft 13.6
Motor Vehicle Theft 2.4

These statistics illustrate a higher prevalence of property crimes compared to violent crimes in the region. Efforts continue to address and mitigate crime in the area.

*Note: All values are approximations based on available crime reports and may vary slightly year