The Bethel Census Area, located in southwestern Alaska, holds the status of a county-equivalent region and is home to around 18,500 residents. Situated in one of the most secluded and scarcely populated zones of the United States, this area lacks road connectivity with the rest of the state.
The majority of inhabitants in this region are Alaska Natives, particularly Yup’ik Eskimos, who reside in petite communities along the shoreline and rivers. The largest of these settlements, Bethel, with approximately 6,200 residents, serves as both the main community and the administrative center for transportation, healthcare, education, and business activities.
Bethel Census Area’s reputation is also associated with a notable prevalence of criminal activities, particularly violent crimes. As per the U.S. Census Bureau‘s data, the county recorded a violent crime rate of 58.6 per 1,000 residents in 2020, exceeding the national average of 22.7 by more than double. The incidence of property crimes was similarly above the national average, with a rate of 42.7 per 1,000 residents compared to the national rate of 35.4.
Nevertheless, it’s important to note that not all sections of the Bethel Census Area share the same level of danger. Certain neighborhoods exhibit lower crime rates and greater safety measures. Drawing on insights from CrimeGrade.org, we’ve pinpointed the five safest neighborhoods in Bethel Census Area, Alaska:
Kwethluk
Kwethluk, a village with a population of around 800, is situated on the Kuskokwim River, approximately 12 miles to the east of Bethel. It boasts an A- grade in terms of crime, indicating a lower crime rate compared to the average American city.
The village’s violent crime rate stands at 17.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is beneath both the county average of 58.6 and the state average of 63.2. Similarly, the property crime rate is also lower, registering at 25.3 per 1,000 residents in contrast to the county’s 42.7 and the state’s 35.4.
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Napakiak
Napakiak stands as a village along the Kuskokwim River, situated approximately 10 miles to the south of Bethel. With a population of around 400 individuals, the village boasts a B+ crime grade, indicating a marginally reduced crime rate compared to the average American city.
The occurrence of violent crimes in Napakiak stands at 21.8 per 1,000 residents, a figure that falls below county and state norms while slightly surpassing the national average of 22.7. Moreover, the incidence of property crimes, at 29 per 1,000 residents, is also lower than the averages of both the county and the state.
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Napaskiak
Napaskiak, a community with approximately 500 residents situated along the Kuskokwim River, lies about six miles to the south of Bethel. It holds a B+ crime grade, indicating a slightly lower crime rate compared to the typical U.S. city.
The incidence of violent crime in Napaskiak stands at 23 per 1,000 inhabitants, surpassing county and state averages but only marginally exceeding the national average of 22.7. Likewise, the property crime rate, at 30 per 1,000 residents, remains under the county and state averages.
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Atmautluak
Atmautluak, a village with approximately 300 residents, is situated along the Pitmiktakik River, around 20 miles northwest of Bethel. It holds a B- crime grade, indicating a crime rate on par with the average U.S. city.
The village’s violent crime rate stands at 28 per 1,000 residents, surpassing national averages (22.7) yet staying beneath county and state norms. Additionally, the property crime rate is below county and state averages at 32 per 1,000 residents.
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Akiachak
Akiachak, a village with approximately 600 residents, is situated on the Kuskokwim River, around 18 miles northeast of Bethel. It holds a C+ crime grade, indicating a slightly elevated crime rate compared to the average in the United States.
Akiachak’s violent crime rate stands at 33 per 1,000 residents, which is below the county average of 58.6 but surpasses the state and national averages of 63.2 and 22.7, respectively. The property crime rate in the village is also below the county average but exceeds the state and national figures, with 38 incidents per 1,000 residents.
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Conclusion
Here are a few of the most safest neighborhoods in Bethel Census Area, Alaska, as determined by the accessible crime statistics. Yet, crime frequencies may differ yearly and among different locations, underscoring the importance of remaining vigilant and using good judgment while residing in or exploring any region.
To learn further about crime trends and safety within Bethel Census Area, you can explore the online resources of the Alaska State Troopers, Bethel Police Department, or refer to CrimeGrade.org.
