The Aleutians West Census Area, situated in the Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea, encompasses a significant portion of the Aleutian Islands, stretching from Attu Island in the west to Unalaska Island in the east, along with the northern Pribilof Islands.
As of 2020, this census area is home to a population of 5,232 and is categorized as part of the Unorganized Borough, meaning it lacks a designated borough seat or government center.
Renowned for its abundant natural resources, diverse wildlife, and strategic positioning, this region hosts the largest fishing port in the United States, Dutch Harbor-Unalaska, which forms the nucleus of the area’s industrial sector. It also holds historical and cultural importance due to its WWII invasion by Japan and a lengthy history of Aleut settlement.
Yet, residing in the Aleutians West Census Area presents its own set of challenges, including severe weather conditions, geographical isolation, high living expenses, and limited amenities.
For both residents and visitors, securing a safe and comfortable neighborhood is of paramount importance. Drawing from data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau, Niche.com, and other reputable sources, the following are the top five safest neighborhoods in the Aleutians West Census Area:
Unalaska
Unalaska, as of 2020, boasts a population of 4,283 residents, making it the most populous city in the census area. Situated on both Unalaska Island and Amaknak Island, it is linked by a bridge. The city is also home to Dutch Harbor, serving as the central port and commercial hub of the region.
In terms of safety, Unalaska maintains a low crime rate. In 2020, there were no reported violent crimes and only 652 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Additionally, the city takes pride in its commendable public school system, receiving an A minus rating from Niche.com.
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Adak
Adak, situated on Adak Island, is the westernmost city in the United States. As of 2020, its population stands at 332. This locale once served as a naval air station in World War II and the Cold War, but in 1997, it was decommissioned and handed over to civilian authority.
Adak boasts an extremely low incidence of crime, recording no violent offenses and only 134 property-related incidents per 100,000 inhabitants in 2020. Additionally, it offers a satisfactory public school system, receiving a B minus rating according to Niche.com.
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St. Paul
St. Paul, situated on St. Paul Island in the Bering Sea among the Pribilof Islands, had a population of 479 in 2020. The majority of its residents are Aleuts, descendants of fur seal hunters who were resettled there by the Russian-American Company in the 18th century.
In terms of safety, St. Paul maintains a moderate crime rate, recording no instances of violent crime and 1,345 property crimes per 100,000 residents in 2020. Its public school system is considered average, earning a C rating according to Niche.com.
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Atka
Atka, situated on Atka Island within the Andreanof Islands of the Aleutian chain, had a population of 61 as of 2020. It stands as one of Alaska’s earliest Aleut communities and was under Japanese occupation during World War II until its liberation by U.S. forces in 1943.
The city maintains a low crime rate, recording no incidents of violent crime and only 674 property crimes per 100,000 residents in 2020. Its public school system receives an average rating of C from Niche.com.
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Nikolski
Nikolski, situated on Umnak Island within the Fox Islands of the Aleutian chain, is a census-designated place. In the year 2020, it had a population of 18. Remarkably, Nikolski holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited Aleut village globally, with origins tracing back at least 8,500 years.
In 2020, Nikolski boasted a notably low crime rate, recording no incidents of violent crime and only 674 property crimes per 100,000 residents. However, its public school system received a below-average rating, securing a D grade according to Niche.com.
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Final Words
The Aleutians West Census Area in Alaska is a captivating and diverse region boasting a rich history, culture, and breathtaking natural scenery. However, it presents certain challenges for residents and visitors, including harsh weather, isolation, and high living costs. Consequently, identifying a secure and welcoming neighborhood is crucial for those wishing to explore this area.
Drawing from a range of data sources, the top five safest neighborhoods in the Aleutians West Census Area are Unalaska, Adak, St. Paul, Atka, and Nikolski. While each of these neighborhoods has its own set of pros and cons, they all share a commendably low crime rate and a distinctive way of life.
Whether you seek a vibrant urban setting, a tranquil island escape, or a historically rich village, you can find it within the Aleutians West Census Area.
