Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK, had a population of approximately 95,655. The median age was about 32 years. The population was 51.4% male and 48.6% female. Racially, the borough was 72.1% White, 8.5% Alaska Native or American Indian, 3.9% Black or African American, 2.7% Asian, and 10.6% identifying as two or more races; 8.2% identified as Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Elections

Fairbanks North Star Borough, Alaska, had 62,300 residents and about 44,100 registered voters as of 2022. Major parties are Republican and Democratic; in the 2020 presidential election, 52% voted Republican and 44% Democratic. Elections include federal, state, borough, and city levels, with polling locations such as Ryan Middle School and Pioneer Park. Issues often focus on resource development and local taxes. The Borough Clerk’s Office administers elections. As of 2023, there were 30 precincts. Absentee and early voting are available, with increasing use: 28% voted absentee in the 2020 general election.

Education, Employment and Housing

Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK, has 33 public schools, including 8 high schools, serving about 13,000 students. High school graduation rates average 78%, while 32% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Test scores are near state averages, with SAT scores averaging 1090. The district offers diverse programs such as STEM academies and vocational training. School safety is prioritized, with 92% of schools reporting strong safety measures. Adult education is supported through the University of Alaska Fairbanks and local technical centers, offering continuing education and certification programs.

As of 2023, Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK, has an unemployment rate of about 4.5%. Major industries include government (32%), education and health services (22%), and retail trade (11%). Leading occupations are in office/administrative support (15%), sales (10%), and food preparation (9%). Approximately 88% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 17 minutes. Most residents work within the borough; however, about 11% commute to other counties for employment, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.

Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK, has a homeownership rate of about 60%. The median home value is approximately $266,000, with monthly rents averaging $1,400. Housing types range from single-family homes to cabins and apartments, with neighborhoods like Hamilton Acres and Aurora-Lemeta popular choices. The property market has seen moderate appreciation, around 4% annually in recent years. Property tax rates average 1.27%, translating to roughly $3,380 annually on a median-priced home. Rental vacancy rates are close to 7%, reflecting stable demand.

County Crime & Safety

Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK, experiences higher crime rates than the national average. In 2023, the violent crime rate was about 6.5 per 1,000 residents, and the property crime rate was approximately 36.2 per 1,000 residents. While law enforcement agencies actively report crimes, residents are encouraged to participate in community watch programs. Local police have increased patrols in high-risk areas, aiming to reduce theft and assault incidents. Overall, safety is a significant concern, with crime tracking systems indicating a moderate-to-high risk compared to other Alaskan counties.