Matanuska-Susitna Borough, often referred to as Mat-Su, stands as a sizable and diverse county located in the south central region of Alaska. Its expanse encompasses over 25,000 square miles, providing a home for nearly 100,000 residents. Within Mat-Su’s boundaries, a rich tapestry of landscapes unfolds, ranging from snow-clad mountains and glaciers to boreal forests and rivers. Its historical and cultural tapestry is equally intricate, fostering a harmonious coexistence of Alaskan Natives, immigrants, and nature enthusiasts.
Inquiring into Mat-Su’s safety, one may wonder about the security it offers and the neighborhoods that provide the highest safety standards for inhabitants. In the forthcoming discourse, we will delve into crime statistics pertaining to Mat-Su and draw attention to the top five neighborhoods renowned for their safety, relying on data from CrimeGrade.org. This website supplies crime maps and ratings for counties across the United States.
As detailed by CrimeGrade.org, Mat-Su earns an exceptional overall crime grade of A+, indicating a substantially higher safety level compared to the typical US county. The county’s safety rating positions it within the 97th percentile, signifying that only 3% of counties exhibit greater safety, while a significant 97% present a higher risk.
In terms of crime incidence, Mat-Su boasts a rate of 38.61 incidents per 1,000 residents, a figure that falls below the national average of 41.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. Now, let’s proceed to unveil the Five Safest Neighborhoods within Mat-Su:
Glacier View
Glacier View, situated in the northwest part of Mat-Su along the Glenn Highway, is a quaint neighborhood. It houses a population of merely 234 individuals and boasts an exceptional A+ grade for overall safety. The crime rate here stands at 17.95 per 1,000 residents, significantly below the county’s average of 38.61 per 1,000 residents.
The neighborhood’s name is a nod to its breathtaking vistas of nearby glaciers and mountains. A sought-after spot for both tourists and adventurers, Glacier View allows people to relish Alaska’s natural beauty and wildlife. The area offers an array of activities including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, rafting, skiing, snowmobiling, and even zip-lining.
The median income in Glacier View is $56,250, with homes having a median price of $156,300. Living costs in Glacier View are 4% lower compared to the national average.
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Willow
Willow is a medium-sized neighborhood situated in the northern central area of Mat-Su, alongside the Parks Highway. With a population of 2,102 individuals, it boasts an exceptional A+ crime grade. The crime rate, at 18.08 per 1,000 residents, is notably lower than the county’s average.
Renowned as the official starting point of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, Willow annually draws numerous spectators and participants from across the globe. This location also hosts other engaging events like the Willow Winter Carnival and the Willow State Winter Fair. The community in Willow is tightly-knit, fostering a welcoming ambiance.
The median income stands at $62,500, accompanied by a median home price of $219,800. The cost of living in Willow surpasses the national average by 9%.
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Sutton-Alpine
Sutton-Alpine, positioned in the northeastern part of Mat-Su along the Glenn Highway, stands as a compact community. Hosting a populace of 1,447 individuals, it boasts an outstanding A+ rating for overall safety. The local crime rate stands at 18.67 per 1,000 residents, slightly below the county’s average.
Originally established in the early 1900s, Sutton-Alpine holds the distinction of being a historical mining town. Its storied past is reflected in its diverse population comprising Alaskan Natives, Russians, Germans, and Scandinavians.
A lively arts and culture scene enriches the area, featuring numerous museums, galleries, festivals, and engaging events. Nature enthusiasts will find their haven here, as Sutton-Alpine offers an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and skiing.
With a median income of $66,250 and a median home price of $202,300, Sutton-Alpine paints a picture of its economic landscape. The cost of living here surpasses the national average by 7%.
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Talkeetna
Talkeetna, nestled in the northern part of Mat-Su and bordered by the Talkeetna River, stands as a cozy community. With a population of 876 residents, it boasts an outstanding A+ grade for overall safety. The crime rate, at 19.86 per 1,000 residents, slightly dips below the county’s average.
This quaint and distinctive town exudes charm and individuality. It serves as a hub for numerous expeditions to Denali, North America’s highest summit.
The town’s vibrant downtown area thrives with an array of shops, eateries, bars, and cafes. Throughout the year, Talkeetna comes alive with various events like the Moose Dropping Festival, the Talkeetna Bluegrass Festival, and the Talkeetna Bachelor Auction.
The median income reaches $54,375, while the median home price settles at $237,500. Living costs here surpass the national average by 11%.
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Big Lake
Big Lake, situated in the southwestern region of Mat-Su along its namesake lake, encompasses a spacious neighborhood. This community houses approximately 3,350 residents and boasts an impressive A+ grade for its overall low crime rate. The incidence of crime stands at 20.30 per 1,000 inhabitants, a figure slightly below the county’s average.
Renowned for its recreational offerings, Big Lake beckons both locals and tourists alike with its opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, water skiing, jet skiing, and even ice fishing during colder months.
The area also features numerous parks, trails, campgrounds, and lodges, fostering a robust communal spirit. Noteworthy events like the Big Lake Winterfest, Big Lake Ice Fishing Derby, and Big Lake Triathlon further contribute to this sense of togetherness.
In terms of economics, the median income in Big Lake reaches $76,875, while homes carry a median price tag of $283,300. Living costs in this locale surpass the national average by 14%.
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Conclusion
The top five safest neighborhoods in Mat-Su are Glacier View, Willow, Sutton-Alpine, Talkeetna, and Big Lake. These areas boast the lowest crime rates and grades in Mat-Su according to data from CrimeGrade.org. Additionally, they offer appealing qualities like picturesque settings, welcoming communities, and enjoyable events.
Whether you’re considering a relocation to Mat-Su or simply interested in discovering its neighborhoods, we trust this article has furnished you with valuable information and perspectives. Prior to making any choices, it’s important to conduct your own research and seek guidance from local experts for comprehensive details and recommendations.
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