The North Slope Borough is the northernmost administrative division in Alaska and the entire United States. As of the 2020 census, it had a population of 11,031. Its main city, Utqiaġvik (formerly known as Barrow until 2016), is also the northernmost settlement in the country.
This borough covers a total area of 94,796 square miles (245,520 km²), of which 88,695 square miles (229,720 km²) is land and 6,101 square miles (15,800 km²) (6.4%) is water. To put it in perspective, the borough is larger in size than 39 U.S. states. Its western edge borders the Chukchi Sea, while the eastern side, past Point Barrow, faces the Beaufort Sea.
In terms of land area, the North Slope Borough is the biggest county-level political division in the United States, even larger than the state of Utah (which is the 13th-largest state in the nation).
The North Slope Borough has a rich and diverse culture, with the majority of its inhabitants belonging to the Inupiat, an indigenous Alaskan people. The borough recognizes seven official languages: Inupiaq, English, Filipino, Siberian Yupik, Spanish, Korean, and Koyukon.
This region also boasts some of the most breathtaking and untouched natural scenery worldwide, including national protected areas like the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve.
For those interested in safety, we’ve gathered information from CrimeGrade.org to identify the top five safest neighborhoods in the North Slope Borough, Alaska.
Anaktuvuk Pass
Anaktuvuk Pass, situated in North Slope Borough, lies on a ridge between two branches of the Anaktuvuk River. As of 2020, it is home to 324 residents.
This community is recognized for its safety, boasting no incidents of violent crime and only one case of property crime in 2019. Additionally, Anaktuvuk Pass holds cultural significance, being the sole habitation of the Nunamiut people. They are inland Inupiat who lead a nomadic existence centered around hunting caribou.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Franklin,Tennessee
Point Hope
Point Hope, situated on a gravel spit at Alaska’s farthest western point, is a city in North Slope Borough. In 2020, it had a population of 674. This neighborhood is known for its safety, as there was only one violent crime and three property crimes reported in 2019.
Point Hope holds a significant historical status, being one of North America’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements, with a history spanning at least 2,500 years. It’s a community deeply rooted in traditional whaling practices and sustains itself through hunting and fishing.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Safest Neighborhoods in Oxford County, Maine
Wainwright
Wainwright, situated on the Chukchi Sea coast, is a city in North Slope Borough, approximately 72 miles southwest of Utqiaġvik. As of 2020, it had a population of 556.
This area is considered quite safe within North Slope Borough, as there were only two cases of violent crimes and four property crimes reported in 2019. Wainwright also serves as a central point for activities related to oil and gas exploration and development in the region, boasting numerous facilities and infrastructure in close proximity.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Safest Neighborhoods in Badger, Alaska
Nuiqsut
Nuiqsut, situated on the west side of the Colville River delta by the Beaufort Sea, is a city in North Slope Borough. In 2020, it had a population of 437.
Regarding safety, Nuiqsut in North Slope Borough is relatively secure, as only three violent crimes and six property crimes were reported in 2019. Moreover, the area plays a central role in oil and gas production, housing numerous wells and pipelines nearby.
Read More: 5 Most Safest Neighborhood in Nashville
Atqasuk
Atqasuk, situated in the North Slope Borough, is positioned along the Meade River, approximately 60 miles to the south of Utqiaġvik. As of 2020, its population stands at 233.
This neighborhood in the North Slope Borough is known for its relative safety, with only four instances of violent crimes and seven property-related incidents reported in 2019.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in West Jordan, Utah
Final Words
Here are the five safest neighborhoods in North Slope Borough, Alaska, according to the crime data. Yet, when deciding on a place to live or visit, safety isn’t the only important factor. Each neighborhood has its unique appeal, character, along with its own set of strengths and challenges. The North Slope Borough is a vibrant and diverse area that provides a wealth of opportunities to discover and enjoy.
