Top 10 Worst Places to Live In Alaska In 2024

Top 10 Worst Places to Live In Alaska . Top 10 Worst Cities In Alaska to Live, Raise a Family, Job or Retire. Top 10 Worst Towns in Alaska. Top 10 Worst Villages in Alaska. If you’re thinking about a move to Alaska, here are the places you should avoid to live, retire or raise a family. 10 Most Dangerous Cities In Alaska You Should Never Move To. Top 10 Worst Cities To Live In North Carolina. 10 Places in Alaska You Should NEVER Move To.



TOP 10 WORST PLACES TO LIVE IN ALASKA

1. ANCHORAGE

Anchorage, located in Alaska, is the largest city in the state with a population of 292,090 residents. Situated amidst the stunning natural beauty of Alaska, Anchorage thrives as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting proximity to majestic mountains, pristine rivers, and expansive parks. With a diverse economy driven by industries such as tourism, oil and gas, and transportation, Anchorage continues to attract residents seeking adventure and economic opportunities.

Anchorage ranks 3rd in Total Crimes and 3rd in Violent Crimes among cities in Alaska. Notably, it holds the 2nd position in Property Crimes and 1st in Robberies, reflecting the challenges faced in maintaining public safety. The city also ranks 4th in Rapes and 2nd in Burglaries, highlighting areas of concern for law enforcement agencies.

The unemployment rate in Anchorage stands at 5.2%, exceeding the national rate by 10.64%. Despite economic prosperity, the city grapples with a poverty rate of 8.8%, slightly lower than the national average.

In terms of housing, the median home value in Anchorage is $320,100, reflecting the city's desirability and stable real estate market. However, the median home income is $84,813, indicating a moderate disparity between housing costs and income levels.

Overall, Anchorage scores 6/10 on the assessment scale, portraying a city with significant strengths and areas for improvement. As residents enjoy the natural splendor and economic opportunities of Anchorage, addressing crime rates and socioeconomic disparities remains paramount for ensuring a thriving community.

Population : 292090
Unemployment Rate : 5.2%
Poverty : 8.8%
Median Home Value : $320100
Median Home Income : $84813
Overall Score : 6/10

2. BETHEL

Bethel, situated in the state of Alaska, is a small yet vibrant city with a population of 6,548 residents. Nestled in the heart of Alaska, Bethel enjoys a unique cultural heritage and scenic surroundings, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors alike.

Despite its natural beauty, Bethel faces socioeconomic challenges, ranking 6th in Poverty among cities in Alaska. The poverty rate in Bethel stands at 17.1%, surpassing the national average by 22.14%, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to uplift disadvantaged communities.

In terms of public safety, Bethel ranks 2nd in Violent Crimes and 4th in Assaults, reflecting the city's efforts to address crime rates. Additionally, it holds the 2nd position in Rapes, indicating the need for comprehensive strategies to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

Economically, Bethel contends with an unemployment rate of 9.5%, significantly higher than the national average. Despite this challenge, the city boasts a median home value of $287,600 and a median home income of $86,624, reflecting stability and affordability in the local housing market.

While the overall crime rate in Bethel is 5.25% higher than the national average, residents face a disproportionately higher risk of violent crime, with a 1 in 70 chance of being a victim. These statistics underscore the importance of community-driven initiatives and law enforcement efforts to enhance public safety.

Overall, Bethel earns a commendable 7/10 on the assessment scale, highlighting its resilience and potential for continued growth and development.

Population : 6548
Unemployment Rate : 9.5%
Poverty : 17.1%
Median Home Value : $287600
Median Home Income : $86624
Overall Score : 7/10

3. KOTZEBUE

Kotzebue, located in the pristine wilderness of Alaska, is home to a population of 3,287 residents.

Despite its natural beauty, Kotzebue faces socio-economic challenges, with a poverty rate of 18.6%, significantly higher than the national average. The city also contends with an unemployment rate of 8.1%, reflecting economic disparities that affect its residents.

In terms of public safety, Kotzebue struggles with a high incidence of murders, ranking 1st in this category. Additionally, the city's violent crime rate is 74.51% higher than the national average, with residents facing a 1 in 149 chance of being a victim.

However, Kotzebue's median home value of $236,500 and median home income of $81,188 suggest relative stability in the housing market and the presence of employment opportunities. Despite its challenges, Kotzebue remains a unique and resilient community within the Alaskan landscape.

Population: 3,287
Unemployment Rate: 8.1%
Poverty: 18.6%
Median Home Value: $236,500
Median Home Income: $81,188
Overall Score: 4/10

4. DILLINGHAM

Dillingham, nestled in the wilderness of Alaska, boasts a population of 2,215 residents.

Population: 2,215
Unemployment Rate: 6.3%
Poverty: 11.9%
Median Home Value: $266,200
Median Home Income: $74,524
Overall Score: 5/10

While Dillingham offers picturesque landscapes and a tight-knit community, it faces challenges in terms of public safety. The city ranks 4th in Violent Crimes and 2nd in Assaults, indicating concerns about crime rates.

The unemployment rate of 6.3% is 34.04% higher than the national average, reflecting economic disparities that impact residents' livelihoods.

Dillingham's violent crime rate is 139.85% higher than the national average, with residents having a 1 in 101 chance of being a victim. Despite these challenges, the city maintains a median home value of $266,200 and a median home income of $74,524, suggesting relative stability in housing and employment opportunities.

5. FAIRBANKS

Fairbanks, located in the heart of Alaska, is home to 31,427 residents.

Population: 31,427
Unemployment Rate: 8.3%
Poverty: 9.3%
Median Home Value: $217,700
Median Home Income: $64,397
Overall Score: 6/10

Fairbanks is known for its rugged beauty and outdoor lifestyle, but it grapples with significant crime issues. The city ranks 2nd in Total Crimes and 1st in Property Crimes. It also holds top positions in other crime categories, such as 5th in Murders, 2nd in Robberies, 5th in Assaults, 1st in Burglaries, 1st in Larcenies, and 1st in Car Thefts.

Despite being a hub of economic activity, with a typical household income of $64,397 per year, Fairbanks faces economic challenges. The unemployment rate of 8.3% is 76.6% higher than the national average, reflecting a higher cost of living and lower purchasing power.

The overall crime rate in the city is 112.35% higher than the national average, with a 1 in 121 chance of residents becoming victims of violent crime. Additionally, the property crime rate is 111.37% higher than the national average, with a 1 in 25 chance of being a victim.

Despite these challenges, Fairbanks remains a vibrant community with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and economic growth.

6. HOMER

Homer, nestled in the scenic landscape of Alaska, boasts a population of 5,830 residents.

Population: 5,830
Unemployment Rate: 8.7%
Poverty: 11.4%
Median Home Value: $293,700
Median Home Income: $61,332
Overall Score: 6/10

Despite its picturesque surroundings, Homer faces economic challenges. The typical household income of $61,332 per year is 9.14% lower than the national average. Additionally, the unemployment rate of 8.7% is 85.11% higher than the national rate, indicating economic struggles.

Homer offers a high quality of life, but the high cost of living means residents must navigate financial constraints. Despite these challenges, Homer remains a vibrant community with opportunities for growth and development.

7. NOME

Nome is a city in Alaska State in the USA with a population of 3,850 residents. The city ranks 1st in Total Crimes, 1st in Violent Crimes, 2nd in Murders, 3rd in Robberies, 1st in Assaults, and 1st in Rapes.

The unemployment rate of Nome remains at 9.6%, which is 104.26% higher than the national rate.

With an overall crime rate 157.94% higher than the national average, and a violent crime rate soaring to 983.79% above the national average, residents face a 1 in 23 chance of being a victim of violent crime.

Population: 3,850
Unemployment Rate: 9.6%
Poverty: 7.5%
Median Home Value: $258,100
Median Home Income: $84,574
Overall Score: 6/10

8. JUNEAU

Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, is situated in the southeastern part of the state, nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the Inside Passage. Surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, and pristine waters, Juneau boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. 

The city ranks 4th in Total Crimes, 5th in Violent Crimes, 5th in Property Crimes, 4th in Robberies, 3rd in Rapes, 3rd in Burglaries, and 5th in Larcenies.

The overall crime rate in the city is 65.83% higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate 138.97% higher and a property crime rate 51.34% higher. Residents face a 1 in 108 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 34 chance of being a victim of property crime.

Population: 32,099
Unemployment Rate: 4.4%
Poverty: 6.9%
Median Home Value: $355,100
Median Home Income: $88,077
Overall Score: 8/10

9. KETCHIKAN

Ketchikan, located in the southeastern region of Alaska, is a picturesque city surrounded by the Tongass National Forest and the waters of the Inside Passage. Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," Ketchikan's economy is heavily reliant on fishing and tourism industries, drawing visitors from around the globe to its scenic shores.

Despite its natural beauty and economic opportunities, Ketchikan faces challenges such as a higher-than-average unemployment rate of 7.1%, which is 51.06% higher than the national rate. Additionally, the city's residents experience a cost of living that outpaces their income, with households earning $65,809 annually, slightly lower than the national average.

Ketchikan's crime rates, while higher than the national average, are not exceptional among Alaska's cities. The city ranks 4th in property crimes, 4th in murders, 5th in rapes, and 2nd in larcenies. However, residents still have a 1 in 222 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 33 chance of experiencing property crime.

Despite these challenges, Ketchikan's natural beauty and vibrant culture continue to attract residents and visitors alike, offering a unique Alaskan experience amidst stunning wilderness surroundings.

Population : 8230
Unemployment Rate : 7.1%
Poverty : 10.8%
Median Home Value : $257600
Median Home Income : $65809
Overall Score : 6/10

10. KENAI

Kenai is a city located in the heart of the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska, USA. Situated along the banks of the Kenai River and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, the city boasts a population of 7799 residents.

Despite its natural beauty, Kenai faces economic challenges, with a poverty rate of 15.5%, which is 10.71% higher than the national average. The typical household in Kenai earns $66,612 annually, slightly lower than the national average. Additionally, the city has an unemployment rate of 8.2%, significantly higher than the national rate, indicating limited economic opportunities for its residents.

Kenai also struggles with crime, ranking 3rd in murders and experiencing a violent crime rate 14.41% higher than the national average. Residents have a 1 in 223 chance of being a victim of violent crime.

Despite these challenges, Kenai remains a vibrant community with a strong sense of identity and pride, offering its residents and visitors access to unparalleled outdoor recreational opportunities and a rich cultural heritage.

Population : 7799
Unemployment Rate : 8.2%
Poverty : 15.5%
Median Home Value : $229000
Median Home Income : $66612
Overall Score : 5/10

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