Northwest Arctic County

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Northwest Arctic Borough, Alaska, has a population of approximately 7,793. The racial composition is predominantly Native American (81.9%), with Whites making up 12.2%, and the remaining 5.9% comprising other races including Asian, Black, and mixed races. The borough spans 40,749 square miles, resulting in a low population density. The median household income is around $67,241, and the regional economy is heavily influenced by subsistence activities and natural resource industries, particularly mining and fishing.

Northwest Arctic Borough, AK, has a median home value of approximately $155,000 as of 2021. Homeownership rate is roughly 45%, and rental housing constitutes about 55% of the market. Median gross rent is around $1,125 per month. Limited availability and high construction costs impact prices. Housing challenges include overcrowding and substandard conditions in some areas. The regional population is mainly concentrated in Kotzebue, with smaller communities scattered throughout the borough.

The Northwest Arctic Borough in Alaska conducts local elections to select officials including the borough mayor and assembly members. In recent elections, the borough had a voter turnout of approximately 35-40%. Notable candidates for the mayoral position have included Lucy Nelson and Clement Richards Sr., with competitive races often decided by narrow margins, such as Nelson's win by around 100 votes in 2020. Assembly candidates typically represent specific communities within the borough, including Kotzebue, Noorvik, and Kiana, with about 2-4 candidates contesting each seat. Official results are published by the Alaska Division of Elections and the Northwest Arctic Borough Clerk's office, ensuring transparency in the process. Voters can also engage in state and federal elections, casting ballots for gubernatorial, congressional, and presidential candidates, reflecting the region's participation in broader Alaskan and national political landscapes.

Northwest Arctic Borough, Alaska, faces educational challenges compared to state and national averages. As of recent data:

• High school graduation rate: Approximately 75%, lower than Alaska's state average of around 81% and the national average of about 86%.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher attainment: About 10%, significantly below both the state average of approximately 29% and the national average of roughly 32%.

These figures reflect a significant educational gap, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and resources to improve educational outcomes in the region.

Northwest Arctic Borough in Alaska has an employment landscape that notably differs from broader state and national averages. The region's economy is dominated by natural resources, particularly mining. As of the most recent data, mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction constitute about 30% of local employment. In contrast, these industries account for roughly 5% of employment in Alaska and less than 1% nationally. Public administration and services such as education and healthcare also play significant roles, both locally and across the state.

Employment numbers fluctuate seasonally, but as of recent reports, the civilian labor force in the Northwest Arctic Borough stands at about 5,200 individuals, with an unemployment rate around 17%, significantly higher than the national average of approximately 3.8% and Alaska's state average of approximately 6.3%. The borough’s unique economic reliance on mining notably skews these statistics compared to broader averages.

As of the latest available data, the average household income in Northwest Arctic Borough, Alaska, is approximately $58,000 per year. In comparison, the state of Alaska has an average household income of around $77,640, while the national average household income is about $68,700. The lower average income in Northwest Arctic Borough highlights disparities when compared to both state and national figures.

Income Comparison Table

These figures underscore economic challenges in Northwest Arctic Borough relative to broader benchmarks.

Northwest Arctic Borough, Alaska, has a relatively high crime rate compared to the national average. As of the latest available data, the region experiences higher instances of violent crimes, including aggravated assault and sexual assault. The property crime rate is also elevated, primarily driven by larceny and burglary incidents.

Crime Statistics for Northwest Arctic Borough, AK (per 100,000 residents):

Please note that crime rates are subject to change and may vary based on the year and reporting practices.