Front fork creaking out of nowhere:. What could be causing it?

The creaking/cracking noise started out of nowhere about a week ago. I can tell it’s coming from the front left side of the fork, but I have no idea what’s causing it. I’ve tried loosening and tightening the quick release, checked every screw, and the bearings seem fine. The bike has never been in an accident or even fallen over. The sound just appeared one day, and it only happens when I’m putting down power.

Maybe it’s because I’ve removed and reinstalled the front wheel too many times? I live upstairs, so I have to take the front wheel off every time I carry the bike down the stairs.