Homer Public RecordsAlaska

Homer, located on the Kenai Peninsula, AK, had a population of approximately 5,563 in 2022. About 49.3% are male and 50.7% female, with a median age of 42.5 years. Racially, the population is predominantly White (82.8%), followed by Alaska Native (5.5%), two or more races (7.6%), Asian (1.9%), and other races. Hispanic or Latino residents make up about 2.9%. The city features a balanced gender ratio and an older-than-average population compared to Alaska overall.

Homer, on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula, has a median home value around $318,000 (2023), with a homeownership rate near 59%. Rental prices average $1,100 monthly for a two-bedroom. The housing market has seen steady appreciation, with property values rising about 5% annually. Homes range from waterfront and hillside single-family houses to cabins and condos. Popular neighborhoods include Old Town, East End Road, and Skyline Drive. Kenai Peninsula Borough property taxes average 4.5 mills, meaning about $1,430 annually on a $318,000 home. The real estate market is competitive, driven by Homer’s scenic location and cultural appeal.

Homer, on the Kenai Peninsula, hosts several schools, including Homer High School, which serves around 350 students with a graduation rate of 89% and average SAT scores near 1060. The city also features private options and alternative programs. About 38% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools are rated above state average for safety and academics (GreatSchools scores range 6-8/10). Adult education is available through Kachemak Bay Campus (University of Alaska Anchorage), offering college credits and workforce training, supporting lifelong learning and community development.

Homer, Alaska, located on the Kenai Peninsula, primarily relies on personal vehicles for transportation, with an estimated 86% of residents commuting alone by car and vehicle ownership rates exceeding 90%. Public transit usage is minimal, under 1%, as there is limited local bus service. The average one-way commute time is about 13 minutes, significantly below the national average. Transportation infrastructure includes the Sterling Highway, Homer Airport, and the Homer Spit harbor for marine access. Major employment hubs include South Peninsula Hospital, local schools, fishing, and tourism-related businesses concentrated near downtown and the Spit.

Homer, in Kenai Peninsula Borough, Alaska (population ~5,500), is served primarily by South Peninsula Hospital, a 22-bed facility offering emergency, inpatient, and outpatient services, and several local clinics. Approximately 83% of residents have health insurance (2021 Census ACS), with Medicare and Medicaid covering a significant proportion. The area experiences higher rates of chronic diseases like diabetes and substance abuse compared to national averages; access disparities persist, particularly among Alaska Native and older adults. The provider-to-population ratio is ~1 primary care doctor per 1,870 residents. Challenges include geographic isolation, mental health needs, and recruitment of healthcare professionals.