Living in Homer means trading urban congestion for meaningful comfort. While the cost of living is slightly above the national average due to Alaska’s logistics, residents find that their money goes further in ways that matter—space, community, and quality of life. You’ll spend less on commuting, parking, and entertainment, and more on experiences that enrich your daily life.
Though shipping drives up prices on certain goods, Homer offers excellent value when it comes to housing, healthcare, and personal safety—key expenses that influence long-term financial security. Homeownership is attainable and stable, and you won’t find the inflated costs of major metropolitan markets.
In Homer, value isn’t measured in square footage or brand names—it’s found in the richness of daily life. Groceries might cost a little more, but walking to the docks for fresh halibut or berries picked along the trails more than compensates. You’ll find that the slower pace naturally curbs unnecessary spending, allowing more room for savings, travel, and family experiences.
Residents often describe Homer’s cost of living as an investment—one that yields daily returns in well-being, community, and access to nature. The trade-off is clear: a slightly higher grocery bill in exchange for an unparalleled lifestyle.
In Homer, you’ll find that what you gain—peace, beauty, and connection—far outweighs what you spend.
Homer offers an unsurpassed quality of life. The City of Homer's Community Development Department and the Homer Chamber of Commerce have created the 2023 Homer Relocation Guide to introduce the wonderful aspects of Homer that local residents already enjoy: friendly people, quality public schools, comprehensive health and wellness care, diversified economy, a vibrant arts scene, fantastic restaurants, and world-class recreational opportunities.
In Homer, the concept of home extends far beyond your front door. Whether perched above the bay or tucked into a quiet forest clearing, every residence comes with views that could grace a postcard. Housing here offers a balance of natural beauty and comfort that’s nearly impossible to replicate in major cities. You’ll wake to the scent of spruce trees, watch eagles from your deck, and fall asleep to the sound of waves or the hush of winter snow.
Each part of Homer carries its own personality. You can choose from hillside homes with sweeping views, coastal cottages near the Spit, or quiet neighborhoods shaded by birch and alder trees.
For those who prefer to rent initially, Homer offers a healthy mix of short- and long-term rentals, including modern apartments, guest cottages, and waterfront cabins. Many newcomers take advantage of seasonal rentals while exploring neighborhoods before purchasing property.
Owning a home in Homer is more than a financial decision—it’s a way of putting down roots in a community that values independence and stewardship. Many homes include greenhouses or solar installations, reflecting a commitment to sustainable living. With manageable property taxes and accessible financing options, even scenic acreage remains within reach for professionals seeking space and self-sufficiency.
Living in Homer means your home becomes part of the landscape—an extension of the bay, the mountains, and the sky.
Homer offers the kind of safety that’s increasingly rare in today’s world. It’s the kind of town where you can leave your car unlocked at the grocery store, your kids can walk to the park after school, and neighbors still look out for one another. The sense of security here is woven not just into crime statistics, but into the culture of mutual respect and vigilance that defines small-town Alaska.
Homer’s safety infrastructure reflects its community-minded spirit—efficient, responsive, and integrated with broader regional support systems.
Living on Alaska’s coast means understanding and respecting nature’s power. Homer takes that responsibility seriously, with strong community awareness and preparedness programs for environmental and weather-related events.
What truly keeps Homer safe is its people. Residents look after one another, help stranded motorists during storms, and check in on neighbors after long nights of snowfall. Physicians often note that this sense of interconnectedness—so rare in larger cities—translates into both personal and professional comfort.
In Homer, safety isn’t just about low crime; it’s about knowing you’re surrounded by people who care, in a place where community is the best form of security.
