Alaska, the largest and least densely populated state in the United States, had a population of 733,391 in 2020. Nevertheless, the growth or decline of its various regions varies.
Over the past decade, certain counties in Alaska have witnessed substantial decreases in population, attributed to factors like migration, birth rates, and economic opportunities.
This article delves into the five Alaskan counties experiencing the most pronounced population decline, as indicated by the 2020 Census data.
Haines County
Haines County, situated in the northern part of the Alaska Panhandle and sharing a border with Canada, recorded a population of 1,951 in 2020, indicating a 22.21% decrease from the count in 2010.
Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor recreation, Haines County grapples with various challenges including limited access to healthcare, education, and employment.
With a notably high median age of 51.4 years, the county experiences a low birth rate of 6.1 per 1,000 population. Additionally, it faces a negative net migration rate of -13.7 per 1,000 population, signifying a trend where more people are leaving than arriving.
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Wrangell County
Wrangell County, located on Wrangell Island in the Alaska Panhandle, witnessed a 13.25% population decline from 2010 to 2020, with its population standing at 2,055 in the latter year.
Formerly reliant on logging and fishing, the county faces challenges in diversifying its economy and attracting new residents. Characterized by a high median age of 49.8 years, Wrangell County has a low birth rate of 7.8 per 1,000 population.
Furthermore, the county grapples with a negative net migration rate of -9.9 per 1,000 population, indicating a decline in population due to outward migration.
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Denali County
Denali County, situated in the heart of Alaska, spans a portion of the Alaska Range and includes Denali National Park. As of 2020, its population stands at 1,556, marking a 14.79% decline from the 2010 figures.
Although Denali County is a sought-after destination for tourists, it heavily depends on seasonal workers and transient visitors. With a median age of 38.9 years, the county exhibits both a low median age and a modest birth rate of 8.4 per 1,000 population.
Notably, Denali County faces a challenging demographic trend with a negative net migration rate of -19.4 per 1,000 population, the highest among all counties in Alaska.
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Bristol Bay County
Bristol Bay County is situated in the southwest of Alaska, along the Bering Sea. As of 2020, its population stands at 799, marking a 19.86% decline since 2010.
Known for hosting the world’s largest sockeye salmon fishery, Bristol Bay County grapples with environmental threats posed by proposed mining ventures and the impacts of climate change.
With a median age of 36.8 years, the county also exhibits a low birth rate of 9.4 per 1,000 population. Notably, it experiences a negative net migration rate of -15.8 per 1,000 population, ranking as the second highest in the state.
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Yakutat County
Yakutat County, situated in the southeastern part of Alaska along the Gulf of Alaska, holds the title of the least populous and fastest declining county in the state.
As of 2020, its population stands at 662, marking an 8.76% decrease since 2010. This remote and isolated community faces challenges such as limited access to transportation, healthcare, and education.
The county exhibits distinctive demographic characteristics, including a notably high median age of 47.9 years. Additionally, it records an exceptionally low birth rate of 4.5 per 1,000 population, the lowest in the entire state.
Furthermore, Yakutat County experiences a negative net migration rate of -8.8 per 1,000 population, ranking as the third highest in Alaska.
Read More:Â Exploring the 5 Counties in Missouri With the Most Rapid Population Decline
Conclusion
The top five Alaskan counties experiencing the most significant population decline are Yakutat, Bristol Bay, Denali, Wrangell, and Haines. These areas face shared challenges like geographical isolation, economic reliance, and an aging population.
Nevertheless, each county possesses distinct characteristics, including natural resources, cultural heritage, and tourism potential.
To counteract the decline in population, these counties should address root causes like limited opportunities, services, and amenities that drive people away. Simultaneously, they can highlight the advantages of rural Alaskan living, emphasizing factors such as quality of life, community, and the environment.
