Why Live in Buffalo Soapstone
Buffalo Soapstone in Palmer, Alaska, is a rural neighborhood characterized by its scenic surroundings and spacious lots, with homes typically situated on 1 to 5 acres. The area features a mix of ranch-style houses and log cabins, many with large decks and windows to take in the mountain views. Homes range from those built in the 1980s to new constructions as recent as 2024, with custom designs ensuring a unique look for each property. The neighborhood boasts a crime rate lower than the national average, making it a safer area for residents. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Talkeetna Mountains and the Palmer-Moose Creek Trail, a 6-mile path ideal for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The Matanuska River offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and white-water rafting, while Hatcher Pass provides additional recreational activities and a historic gold mine. For daily needs, residents travel about 6.5 miles to Palmer, where they can find dining options like Vagabond Blues and Palmer Alehouse, as well as grocery stores such as Carrs and Fred Meyer. The neighborhood is car-dependent, with Glenn Highway providing access to Palmer, Wasilla, and Anchorage, which is approximately 49 miles away. Educational options include the highly rated Sherrod Elementary School, with Palmer Middle and High Schools offering various programs, including the International Baccalaureate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buffalo Soapstone a good place to live?
Buffalo Soapstone is a good place to live. Buffalo Soapstone is considered very car-dependent and somewhat bikeable. Buffalo Soapstone is a neighborhood with a crime score of 2, making it safer than the average neighborhood in the U.S. It has a median age of 41. The average household income is $115,771 which is above the national average. College graduates make up 32.7% of residents. A majority of residents in Buffalo Soapstone are home owners, with 14.9% of residents renting and 85.1% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving Buffalo Soapstone can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
Buffalo Soapstone neighborhood guide.
Is Buffalo Soapstone, AK a safe neighborhood?
Buffalo Soapstone, AK is safer than the average neighborhood in the United States. It received a crime score of 2 out of 10.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in Buffalo Soapstone?
The median home price in Buffalo Soapstone is $487,000. If you put a 20% down payment of $97,400 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.24%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $2,400 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $103K a year to afford the median home price in Buffalo Soapstone. The average household income in Buffalo Soapstone is $116K.
What are the best public schools in Buffalo Soapstone?
The best public schools that serve Buffalo Soapstone are:
What are the most popular zip codes in Buffalo Soapstone, Palmer, AK?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near Buffalo Soapstone, Palmer, AK?
Home Trends in Buffalo Soapstone, AK
On average, homes in Buffalo Soapstone, Palmer sell after 59 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Buffalo Soapstone, Palmer over the last 12 months is $534,300, up 46% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$534,300
Median Single Family Sale Price
$443,500
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$297
Number of Homes for Sale
3
Last 12 months Home Sales
11
Median List Price
$487,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
3%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
46%