Ketchikan Gateway Borough, situated in the southeastern region of Alaska, boasts a population of approximately 13,000 residents. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and thriving wildlife, it’s a place of great allure. Yet, one may wonder about the safety of living here.
Which neighborhoods within this borough offer the highest quality of life and security for both its inhabitants and visitors?
This article delves into crime statistics, the performance of public schools, the cost of living, and the local amenities available in the top five safest neighborhoods within Ketchikan Gateway Borough. These insights are gleaned from a variety of data sources.
Saxman
Saxman, situated in the Ketchikan Gateway Borough, is a small town with approximately 350 residents. It’s positioned at the southern tip of Revillagigedo Island, a mere three miles away from downtown Ketchikan.
Saxman is most notably known for the Saxman Native Village, which serves as a cultural and historical hub for the Tlingit people. Additionally, Saxman boasts a totem park, a community center, a carving center, and a tribal house.
When it comes to safety, Saxman boasts a commendably low crime rate, with no violent incidents and just one property crime reported in 2020. The public schools in Saxman have received a favorable B+ rating from Niche.com, and the cost of living here is below the national average.
This makes Saxman an inviting and budget-friendly community, offering its residents a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere, along with convenient access to both natural wonders and cultural attractions.
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Ward Cove
Ward Cove, situated in the Ketchikan Gateway Borough, is an unincorporated community boasting a population of approximately 500 residents. It can be found on the northern tip of Revillagigedo Island, just eight miles away from downtown Ketchikan.
This charming locale derives its name from the scenic cove that serves as its harbor, renowned for its popularity among boating and fishing enthusiasts. Ward Cove is further equipped with essential amenities, including a post office, grocery store, gas station, and a handful of local businesses.
Notably, Ward Cove maintains a commendably low crime rate, with no reported incidents of violent crime and only two instances of property crime recorded in 2020. The public schools in this community are highly regarded, earning a respectable B+ rating on Niche.com. Additionally, the cost of living here is notably more affordable than the national average.
Ward Cove offers its residents a tranquil and rural way of life, complemented by breathtaking vistas of both the water and mountains.
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Ketchikan
Ketchikan, situated on the southwest coast of Revillagigedo Island along the Tongass Narrows, serves as both the largest town and the seat of Ketchikan Gateway Borough, boasting a population of approximately 8,000 residents.
Recognized as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and often referred to as the “First City” of Alaska due to its proximity to Canada, Ketchikan features a dynamic downtown area replete with a variety of shops, dining establishments, museums, and art galleries.
In terms of safety, Ketchikan maintains a moderate crime rate, with 14 violent crimes and 182 property crimes recorded in 2020. The public schools in Ketchikan receive a commendable B+ rating from Niche.com, and while the cost of living here slightly surpasses the national average, the town compensates with its diverse and lively atmosphere, offering an array of activities and attractions for its residents to enjoy.
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Loring
Loring, situated within the Ketchikan Gateway Borough, is an unincorporated community boasting a population of approximately 100 residents. Positioned on the eastern shoreline of Revillagigedo Island, it rests roughly 15 miles from downtown Ketchikan.
Once a thriving cannery hub, Loring has since transformed into primarily a residential enclave. The community is equipped with essential amenities including a dock, a boat ramp, a post office, and a smattering of cabins.
Notably, Loring boasts a notably low crime rate, with no records of violent incidents and only one reported property crime in 2020. Public schools in Loring receive a commendable B+ rating from Niche.com, and the cost of living remains below the national average.
For its residents, Loring offers a tranquil and secluded ambiance, accentuated by the presence of abundant wildlife and captivating natural scenery.
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Metlakatla
Metlakatla, situated on Annette Island within the Ketchikan Gateway Borough of Alaska, hosts approximately 1,300 residents. This locale stands as the sole Indian reservation in the state, under the governance of the Metlakatla Indian Community. Notable amenities in Metlakatla include a church, school, health center, museum, and casino.
Crime remains notably low in Metlakatla, with no records of violent offenses and just 11 property-related incidents reported in 2020.
Additionally, the public schools within this community receive a favorable B+ rating from Niche.com, while the cost of living falls below the national average. Metlakatla fosters a distinctive and proud culture among its inhabitants, characterized by a profound sense of community and identity.
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Conclusion
Ketchikan Gateway Borough in Alaska offers an attractive and secure living environment, featuring diverse neighborhoods tailored to various tastes and financial situations. Whether you seek a quaint village, a serene rural setting, or a bustling urban hub, you can discover your perfect residence within the five most secure neighborhoods of Ketchikan Gateway Borough.
