Alaska Population Grows Slightly Despite Continued Out-Migration

State sees natural increase, but working-age population declines as elderly population grows

Feb. 1, 2026 at 10:15pm

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Alaska's population grew by 0.2% in the last year, adding 1,649 people, mainly due to a natural increase of more births than deaths. However, the state continued to lose people through net migration, with more people moving out than moving in. Alaska also saw a decreasing working-age population and an increasing elderly population, which has economic implications particularly for healthcare services.

Why it matters

Alaska's population trends, including continued out-migration and an aging population, have significant economic and social implications for the state. The growth in the elderly population puts pressure on sectors like healthcare, while the decline in working-age residents could impact the state's economy and tax base.

The details

According to estimates from the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Alaska's population grew by 0.2% in the last year, adding 1,649 people. This growth was driven by a natural increase, with more births than deaths. However, the state continued to lose people through net migration, with more people moving out than moving in. Alaska also saw a decreasing working-age population and an increasing elderly population, though both occurred at lower rates than previous years. The growth in Alaska's elderly population has economic implications, particularly for healthcare services.

  • Alaska's population grew by 0.2% in the last year.

The players

Mike Jones

Economist and research assistant professor with the Institute of Social and Economic Research.

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What they’re saying

“In terms of broader patterns, in the last five years, we've seen our elderly population grow every single year. And we actually saw it grow really strong in 2021 and 2022, about 7.5%, 5% growth in the 65 plus population. We've seen that soften a little bit recently into the 3%, 4% range.”

— Mike Jones, Economist and research assistant professor

The takeaway

Alaska's population trends, including continued out-migration and an aging population, present significant economic and social challenges for the state. Addressing these issues will require tailored solutions that account for Alaska's diverse communities and economies.