Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Nome Census Area, Alaska, had a population of approximately 10,046. The median age was 29.5 years, with about 51% male and 49% female residents. The area is predominantly Alaska Native (75.6%), with Whites making up 19.7%, and small percentages of Asian (1.1%), Black (0.5%), and other groups. About 5.8% identify as Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Elections

Nome Census Area, Alaska, has about 5,100 registered voters (as of 2022). Voters participate in local municipal, state, and federal elections, with turnout often exceeding 50%. In the 2020 presidential election, 53% voted Democratic, 43% Republican. Polling locations include the Nome Recreation Center and village community halls. Issues of top concern include subsistence rights, public safety, and infrastructure. Elections are administered by the Alaska Division of Elections, with both major parties (Democratic and Republican) present, alongside Alaska Independence Party. Absentee and early voting are available to accommodate rural residents.

Education, Employment and Housing

Nome Census Area, Alaska, serves approximately 1,180 K-12 students across 15 schools, with Nome-Beltz High School being the primary high school. Around 23% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the national average. School safety ratings are average, with a reported 6/10 on GreatSchools for Nome-Beltz. The district offers various educational programs, including Alaska Native language courses and adult education initiatives. Graduation rates for high school students hover around 78%, while adult literacy programs continue to expand in the region to address workforce needs.

As of 2022, Nome Census Area, AK, had an employment rate of approximately 54%, with about 3,400 people employed. Leading industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (24%), Public Administration (14%), and Educational Services (11%). Common occupations are office/administrative support (14%), management (13%), and education-related jobs (12%). Around 72% of workers commute less than 15 minutes, mostly within the Nome area; less than 2% work outside the county. The median household income is about $72,000, with unemployment fluctuating seasonally but averaging around 7%.

Nome Census Area, AK, has a homeownership rate of about 47%, with the rest renting. Median home values are roughly $230,000, up 4% since 2022. Typical housing includes single-family homes and multifamily units, mainly concentrated in Nome City and small villages like Gambell. Property taxes average 1.00% of home value yearly. The rental vacancy rate is low, with median monthly rents around $1,200. Neighborhoods are small and close-knit, with limited housing inventory impacting prices.

County Crime & Safety

Nome Census Area, Alaska, reports higher crime rates compared to national averages, particularly in property and violent crimes. In 2022, the region saw a violent crime rate of approximately 756 incidents per 100,000 residents, significantly above the U.S. average of 388. Property crime rates also exceeded national figures, with burglary and theft being the most common offenses. Law enforcement and Alaska State Troopers monitor and report crime statistics, but remote geography poses challenges for reporting and response times, impacting overall safety. Community initiatives and increased patrols aim to improve security and reduce criminal activity.