🌞 Snowbirds, Seniors & Staying Put: What’s Up with Senior Housing in Alaska?

Let’s talk about something that’s becoming more and more relevant here in the Last Frontier: senior housing. Whether you’re a “young-at-heart” 65+, helping Mom and Dad navigate the next chapter, or just planning ahead (because adulting, right?), it’s time we shine a light on what’s really happening with Alaska’s aging population — and what it means for home ownership, real estate, and even a little thing called snowbirding.

👵🏼 Alaska’s Not So Young Anymore… and That’s OK

For the first time ever, seniors are making up a big ol’ slice of Alaska’s population pie — about 16% as of 2024, which is kind of a big deal for a state that used to be all about young families, military bases, and pipeline workers. Back in 1960, only 2% of Alaskans were 65 or older. Now? Over 115,000 Alaskans are in that club and the numbers are still rising.

And get this — most of those seniors? Homeowners. In fact, they own 28% of all housing value in the state now. That’s nearly triple what it was back in 1990. Translation: seniors aren’t just hanging out here — they’re planted, invested, and very much a part of our neighborhoods.

🧳 But Wait… What About Snowbirds?

Ah, yes. The age-old Alaskan question: Do retirees actually move away once they’re done working?

Short answer: some do, but most don’t pack up forever.

Instead, many are joining the snowbird squad — heading south when the sidewalks turn into skating rinks. According to the latest Alaska Trends report, more than 7,000 seniors spend 90+ days outside the state every year.

So no, they’re not gone for good. They’re just enjoying the best of both worlds — sunny winters elsewhere, and Alaska summers with salmon, grandkids, and late-night sunsets.

🏠 Senior Housing: Renters vs. Owners

Now, here's something that’s not talked about enough: senior renters. While the majority of older Alaskans own their homes, about 18% are renters, and the data shows a clear challenge — housing costs hit renters way harder.

How hard? Over 59% of senior renters in Alaska spend more than 30% of their income on housing, which is the threshold for what's considered affordable. Compare that to senior homeowners — only 22% of them spend more than that.

Here’s why this matters:
Homeownership tends to stabilize your expenses over time, especially once that mortgage is paid off (and for many senior homeowners in Alaska — that’s already the case). You’re not at the mercy of rising rent, and you’re building equity instead of handing over a chunk of your monthly income to someone else’s investment plan.

If you’re renting later in life, that can put a serious squeeze on your monthly budget — especially as healthcare needs increase or fixed incomes become a reality. And if you're in that camp right now, just know: there are strategies to change that, even in your 60s, 70s, and beyond. You don't have to “miss the boat” on owning.

The key? Plan intentionally. Whether it’s downsizing into something more affordable, using existing equity for a right-size purchase, or exploring creative financing, real estate can offer options that protect your budget and improve your quality of life.

🔑 Big Picture?

Alaska’s getting older — but in the best way. Seniors are staying active, investing in community, snowbirding strategically, and owning a bigger share of the real estate pie. This shift is changing how we think about homes, wealth, and what “retirement” really looks like.

Whether you’re thinking about downsizing, escaping the snow part-time, helping a parent transition, or just wanting to future-proof your housing — this is your sign to get intentional.

📚 Source: “Seniors Are a Growing Slice of Alaska,” Alaska Economic Trends Magazine, March 2025 Edition. Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

Let’s talk it out — no pressure, no push. Just honest conversation about what’s possible and how to make your next housing chapter your best one yet. 🏡