Alaska is renowned for its natural wonders, adventurous spirit, and diverse landscapes. Within this vast expanse lies the Northwest Arctic Borough, an area encompassing approximately 40,000 square miles, hugging the Kotzebue Sound and various rivers.
This borough comprises 11 incorporated villages and boasts a population of around 7,800 individuals, predominantly of Inupiat Eskimo heritage.
While the Northwest Arctic Borough may not be your typical tourist hotspot, it presents a distinct chance to immerse oneself in Alaska’s Arctic culture, history, and wildlife. Additionally, this region stands out for its commendably low crime rates and high standard of living.
As per the Alaska Department of Public Safety, the borough recorded a mere 13 instances of violent crimes and 79 cases of property crimes in 2020, establishing it as one of the safest areas in the state.
But which neighborhoods within the Northwest Arctic Borough stand out as the most secure and comfortable? Here are five, chosen based on their crime statistics, amenities, and attractions.
Kotzebue
Kotzebue, with a population of around 3,300, stands as the largest and most advanced city in the borough. The city boasts modern amenities like an airport, hospital, college campus, museum, library, as well as various stores and dining establishments.
Throughout the year, Kotzebue hosts several cultural events, including the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics, the NANA Elders’ Conference, and the Kobuk 440 Sled Dog Race.
Situated on a peninsula that extends into the Kotzebue Sound, the city provides breathtaking views of the water and mountains. It’s surrounded by noteworthy national parks and wildlife refuges like Cape Krusenstern National Monument, Kobuk Valley National Park, and Selawik National Wildlife Refuge.
Kotzebue maintains a commendably low crime rate when compared to other Alaskan cities. In 2020, only four violent crimes and 25 property crimes were reported in the city. Additionally, it prides itself on a tight-knit community and a heritage rich in cultural significance.
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Noorvik
Noorvik, nestled along the Kobuk River approximately 45 miles east of Kotzebue, is a quaint village with a population of around 700 residents, predominantly of Inupiat Eskimo heritage.
This settlement holds deep historical roots, tracing back to at least 1000 AD. The name “Noorvik” translates to “a place that is moved to” in Inupiaq, a testament to the nomadic lifestyle of its forebears.
Offering a tranquil and picturesque setting, Noorvik grants a captivating vista of the Kobuk River and the Baird Mountains. Compared to other Alaskan villages, Noorvik boasts an impressively low crime rate.
In 2020, there were no reported violent crimes and only one property-related incident. The village prides itself on its tight-knit and welcoming community, which highly values its rich traditions and customs.
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Selawik
Selawik, situated on the delta of the Selawik River, lies approximately 70 miles to the south of Kotzebue. It boasts a population of around 900 residents, predominantly of Inupiat Eskimo heritage. In Inupiaq, Selawik is aptly known as “the place where sheefish spawn,” a nod to its abundant fish resources.
Living in Selawik offers a picturesque experience, with views of Selawik Lake and the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge.
Compared to other Alaskan villages, Selawik maintains a notably low crime rate. In 2020, only two violent crimes and six property crimes were reported. The village also prides itself on a strong sense of community and a vibrant cultural heritage.
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Deering
Deering, a petite village situated along the Kotzebue Sound, lies approximately 55 miles southwest of Kotzebue. Its population totals around 200 individuals, predominantly of Inupiat Eskimo heritage. Established in 1901, Deering initially served as a trading post and a hub for gold mining activities.
Living in Deering offers a snug and delightful experience, with vistas encompassing the Kotzebue Sound and the Deering Lagoon.
Compared to other Alaskan villages, Deering maintains an impressively low crime rate. In 2020, there were no reported violent incidents and merely two property-related offenses in the area. The community of Deering is known for its amiable and cooperative spirit, placing great value on its elders and the surrounding environment.
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Kiana
Kiana is a quaint village positioned at the junction of the Kobuk and Squirrel Rivers, approximately 60 miles to the east of Kotzebue. Its population hovers around 400 residents, primarily of Inupiat Eskimo ancestry.
With roots tracing back to at least 1400 AD, Kiana stands as one of the oldest settlements in the area. The name “Kiana” holds significance, translating to “where three rivers meet” in Inupiaq, a nod to its strategic positioning. Living in Kiana offers a tranquil and picturesque experience, blessed with views of the Kobuk River and the Squirrel River.
Kiana boasts a notably low crime rate compared to other Alaskan villages. In 2020, only three incidents of violent crime and four instances of property crime were reported in Kiana. The village fosters a tight-knit and supportive community that highly values its cultural heritage and spirituality.
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Final Words
The Northwest Arctic Borough in Alaska provides a distinct and fulfilling living environment. It stands out as one of the safest and most tranquil areas in the state, boasting a low crime rate and excellent quality of life. Within the borough, five neighborhoods—Kotzebue, Noorvik, Selawik, Deering, and Kiana—excel in safety, amenities, and attractions.
These neighborhoods offer a wealth of culture, history, and wildlife, making them truly worth discovering and cherishing. Whether you’re seeking a destination to explore or a place to establish roots, the Northwest Arctic Borough caters to a wide range of preferences.
