How Much Does it Cost to Live in Juneau for One Month?

Getting to Juneau is half of the adventure. Accessible only by sea or air, Alaska’s seemingly isolated capital is worth the venture. Breathtaking natural beauty, incredibly fresh local seafood, cliff top views, and a small town with a big heart, Juneau is a city full of surprises. 

Some come for a short visit to check out Juneau’s job scene and others just to enjoy her incredible beauty. Being a prime tourist destination, it’s no surprise that tourism is the biggest employer here for those wanting to work abroad, but be warned, as those who do stay will hold tight to their jobs. It’s therefore best to come with a return ticket, and a realistic outlook, or consider a work exchange program to get your foot in the door.

From gentle trails to epic hiking challenges, you can take in Juneau at a leisurely pace or full steam ahead. If you can drag yourself away from your hot tub after a day of climbing and kayaking, the city keeps the fun happening with restaurants serving wholesome sized meals and bars with jukeboxes pumping. 

What is the Cost of One Month of Housing in Juneau

Juneau’s streets can be filled with many visitors by day, all bustling around the city and its many sights, but nights are returned to the community and those choosing a stay in the city. You see, Juneau is a popular stop for many cruise ships and their patrons enjoy the shopping and beauty of the city by day, and at night return to their floating hotels. 

Monthly condo rentals like Vista Hermosa Retreat will have you feeling at home when you chose to work or stay in Juneau for a little longer. With fully equipped homes available, some including cars and boats, you can establish your own place in the community from $5,250 per month.

Shorter more budget friendly stays can be enjoyed at Juneau Guesthouse. Budget rooms share a bathroom, and everyone shares the kitchen making this a cozy bed and breakfast where you’ll be meeting likeminded travellers to share your travels with: from $1,500 per month.

Average costs are from $1,500 to $5,670 a month.

What is the Cost of Transportation for One Month in Juneau

Juneau is America’s second largest city, in square miles, so you’ll have a lot of distance to cover, and taxis and rental cars (from $6,420) are the most convenient options. Do note though that Juneau’s gas prices are 19% higher than the country average at $3.87 a gallon.

With efficient shuttles services to the main sites and Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Centre, getting around the city is a reliable option especially for those visiting from a cruise ship. Tickets are sold at visitor centers, and conveniently at the ship dock, from $20 for return trips on The Glacier Shuttle. The Capital Transit public buses have one-way fares $2 for adults ($1 for 6-18 year olds), or purchase monthly passes at $40 ($12 for youth) for unlimited travel. 

An average taxi fare around town is $10, though a more economic option may be to book a taxi using their tour rates from $55 per hour.

What is the Cost of Food for One Month in Juneau

Juneau’s seafood trifecta is crab, halibut and Alaskan salmon. You enjoy a fresh haul of it’s finest at a local Crab shack, cooked over an outdoor grill, or delivered to your candlelit table for two. 

The historical Westmark Baranof Hotel’s, Gold Room restaurant, has been serving Juneau’s finest fare since the 1930s. Try their famous 2-foot long Alaskan King Crab legs. With plates from $31-$60 save dinner here for a special treat. 

If you still want to try King Crab but at a more moderate price and without all the frills, head where the locals do and go to Tracy’s King Crab Shack for super fresh seafood. Though prices are still within the $31-$60 range, the size of the meals means you can share and still feel satisfied. For $35 you’ll get 1 pound of crab legs, two rolls, four crab cakes and the mouthwatering bisque

4 carts of groceries: 1kg TBone steak, 1kg ground beef, 1kg fried chicken, 1 liter milk, dozen eggs, 1kg potatoes, 1kg bananas, bread, 1 liter juice, coffee, coke, pizza, and a bottle of wine $263.10

What is the Cost of Entertainment for One Month in Juneau

For a Golden Eagle’s view of Juneau, climb aboard the only aerial tramway in southeast Alaska, The Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. Operating since 1996, and as high as 1,800 feet the views of the city and Gastineau Channel are nothing short of magnificent. Tickets are $33 (adults) $16 (ages 6-12) and young kids are free. Up top you’ll find restaurants, shops, a nature center and hiking trails. Those with a Northern Lights Entertainment Coupon Book get 2 for 1 entry for adults. 

Once you’ve got your bearings, it’s time to choose your adventure in the wilds surrounding Juneau. Hire a kayak and paddle on Medenhall Lake to get some quiet time on the water to yourself, while viewing the awe-inspiring Medenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls, and don’t forget to dodge the icebergs!

Wedged between the mountains of Mount Roberts and Mount Juneau, and situated on the banks of the Gastineau Channel, exploring the natural wonders of Juneau is right at your doorstep.