Moving to Kaktovik, AK?

Kaktovik is a small Arctic city with a population of 283, where most residents are Alaska Native (primarily Iñupiat) and the median age is 28.4. The community is close-knit, with nearly 40% of residents speaking a language other than English at home and a slightly higher number of males than females. With low population density and a strong cultural identity, newcomers will find a unique and welcoming environment.

Population:

283

Density:

29 per sq mi

Median Age:

28.4

Gender Ratio:

107 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

39%

Ethnic Composition

White:

6%

Black:

0%

Asian:

0%

Others:

94% (predominantly Alaska Native - Iñupiat)

Is Kaktovik, AK a safe place to live?

Kaktovik experiences moderate crime rates for Alaska, with a chance of property crime at about 1 in 95 and violent crime at 1 in 294. The overall crime index is 1,390, making it important for newcomers to remain vigilant but not overly concerned. The small community often benefits from neighborly watchfulness and a strong sense of local connection.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

340

Property Crimes Per 100k:

1,050

Crime Index:

1,390

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 294

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 95

Kaktovik’s residents enjoy a median household income of $65,000, though about 19.5% live below the poverty line. The average commute is just 5 minutes, and public transportation is not available, reinforcing a strong sense of community. Education rates are solid, with 81% holding at least a high school diploma, and many neighbors share a rich Alaska Native heritage.

Median Income:

$37,500

Household Income:

$65,000

Family Income:

$72,000

Per Capita Income:

$24,100

Income Male:

$45,000

Income Female:

$35,000

Poverty Rate:

19.5%

Non English Speakers:

39%

Rent:

$1,100

Unemployment Rate:

9.5%

Public Transport Usage:

0%

Commute Time:

5 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

81%

Bachelors or More:

10%

Healthcare in Kaktovik centers around the local primary care clinic, which offers basic services but no emergency care. Most residents (92%) have health insurance, though access to physicians is limited, with only 0.1 doctors per 1,000 people. For more advanced or emergency services, travel to larger communities is often necessary.

Major Hospitals

Name:

Kaktovik Health Clinic

Address:

PO Box 49, Kaktovik, AK 99747

Phone:

(907) 640-6313

Type:

Primary Care Clinic

Emergency Services:

No

Physicians Per 1000:

0.1 (clinic-based/visiting providers)

Health Insurance Coverage:

92%

Health Care Index:

55

Vehicle registration and licensing for Kaktovik residents are handled by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles, with resources available online and through the Juneau office. Given the remote location, many DMV services can be accessed by mail or phone. It's recommended to check the Alaska DMV website for the most current procedures and requirements.

State:

Alaska

Department:

Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles

Address:

P.O. Box 110221, Juneau, AK 99811-0221

Phone:

907-269-5551

Website:

http://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/