Demographics

Denali County, AK, has a population of approximately 1,619 (2022 estimate). The median age is about 44 years. The population is 54% male and 46% female. Racially, the county is 86% White, 2% Native American, 2% Asian, 1% Black or African American, and 8% Hispanic or Latino (of any race). Denali’s small, rural population is aging, with about 18% aged 65 or older and 15% under 18.

Elections

Denali Borough, AK, had 1,558 registered voters as of 2022. It holds municipal, state, and federal elections, including mayoral and assembly races. In the 2020 presidential election, 62% voted Republican, 32% Democrat. Polling locations include Tri-Valley Community Center and Cantwell School. Key local issues are land management and tourism. The borough clerk administers elections. Major parties are Republican and Democrat; nonpartisan voters make up over 20% of registrations. Election administration follows Alaska Division of Elections rules, emphasizing absentee and early voting to accommodate the rural population.

Education, Employment and Housing

Denali Borough, Alaska, has 3 public schools serving K-12 students, with Denali Borough School District achieving a graduation rate of around 88%. Approximately 28% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Test scores are above state averages, with a proficiency rate of 45% in math and 55% in reading. The student-teacher ratio is low at 9:1, promoting individualized attention. School safety is prioritized, with no major incidents reported in recent years. The district offers innovative programs like the Denali PEAK Correspondence Program, supporting remote and adult education learners.

Denali Borough (often informally called Denali County), AK, had an employment-population ratio of approximately 72% in 2022. The largest industries are Accommodation & Food Services (38%), Arts, Entertainment & Recreation (13%), and Public Administration (11%). Leading occupations include Food Preparation & Serving (24%) and Management (13%). Most workers commute under 15 minutes, with over 80% driving alone; major employment locations include Denali National Park and nearby resorts. About 8% of residents work remotely. Unemployment rates fluctuate seasonally due to high tourism.

Denali Borough, AK, features a homeownership rate of about 69%, with the median home value around $237,000 in 2023. Median gross rent stands near $1,110. Housing stock includes single-family homes, cabins, and mobile homes, with Healy and Anderson being notable neighborhoods. The market has seen modest growth, with values rising roughly 5% year-over-year. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.42% of assessed value, or about $994 annually. Rental demand spikes seasonally due to tourism. Overall, Denali Borough offers unique housing options amidst scenic landscapes and a stable, moderately-priced property market.

County Crime & Safety

Denali Borough, AK, reports notably low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, violent crime rate was around 29.5 per 100,000 residents, and property crime stood at about 205 per 100,000, both well below U.S. averages (398 and 1,958 per 100,000, respectively). The borough reported minimal incidents, largely attributable to its small population (under 2,000) and rural setting. Law enforcement presence is modest, and community reporting mechanisms emphasize prevention. Overall, Denali remains one of Alaska’s safest boroughs, with consistently low crime and strong community vigilance.