City Profile
Cordova, Alaska
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Cordova, Alaska, is a small but vibrant community nestled on the eastern edge of Prince William Sound, at the head of Orca Inlet. Originally named Puerto Cordova by Spanish explorer Salvador Fidalgo in 1790, the town has a rich history tied to the fishing industry and its strategic location. Its remote setting, accessible primarily by plane or ferry, contributes to a unique character, attracting those who appreciate a close-knit community and a strong connection to the natural environment. Many residents are drawn to Cordova for its stunning natural beauty, abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, and a lifestyle that offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. The town's identity is deeply intertwined with the sea, with commercial fishing and processing being significant economic and cultural pillars. Despite its isolation, Cordova fosters a strong sense of community, where neighbors often rely on each other, creating a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers seeking a different pace of life.
Alaska, the largest U.S. state by land area, is characterized by its vast, rugged wilderness and diverse climates, ranging from temperate maritime in the southeast to arctic in the north. Its economy is heavily reliant on natural resources, with major industries including oil and gas, mining, fishing, and a growing tourism sector. Living in Alaska is generally more expensive than the national average, particularly for housing, groceries, and utilities, though there is no state income or sales tax, and residents may receive an annual Permanent Fund Dividend. The lifestyle often emphasizes a strong connection to nature and outdoor activities, with a sense of community and resilience, though residents must adapt to long, dark winters in many areas.
How this 62/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 85 / 100 | 85.0 | 30% | 25.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 120.0 | 18.8 | 25% | 4.7 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $85,132 Income needed to live here: $55,000 Unemployment rate: 4.2% | 83.0 | 20% | 16.6 |
| Growth | No usable reading — dataset average used | 56.4 | 15% | 8.5 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 10% | 6.8 |
| Overall score | 62.1 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 1 (fast), q=87), last refreshed
24 September 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Expenses
Cost of Living
Cordova's cost of living is notably higher than the national average, with estimates suggesting it is around 20% higher than the U.S. average and 16% lower than Alaska's state average. This elevated cost is primarily driven by housing expenses, which are significantly higher than the national average, and also influenced by transportation and food costs. Utilities and healthcare also contribute to the overall expense of living in Cordova. While Alaska as a state offers tax advantages with no state sales or income tax, these benefits are offset by the higher costs of goods and services in more remote communities like Cordova.
Income
Salary Insights
The economy of Cordova is largely shaped by its natural resources and its role as a gateway to Prince William Sound. Commercial fishing, particularly salmon, remains a cornerstone of the local economy, with a significant portion of households involved in fishing or processing. Other key industries include tourism, driven by the area's natural beauty and recreational opportunities, and services supporting the local population. While specific data on average salaries and unemployment rates for Cordova is not readily available, the broader economic context of Alaska suggests a reliance on resource-based industries and a growing service sector. Remote work opportunities may be limited due to the town's isolation and infrastructure.
The average salary in Cordova is $65,000 per year. You would need approximately $55,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
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Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Transportation in Cordova is characterized by its limited connectivity to the broader road network, necessitating air or ferry travel for access to other Alaskan communities. Within the town, most residents rely on personal vehicles, with an average of two cars per household and a short average commute time of around 7.3 minutes. While public transit options are not extensive, there are some bus routes available, though the overall transit score is moderate. Walkability is also a factor, with many daily errands being manageable on foot in certain areas.
At a Glance
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Community Q&A
Questions about Cordova
What people ask about living in and moving to Cordova, Alaska.
Is Cordova a safe place to live?
Cordova scores 85 out of 100 on safety assessments, indicating a relatively low level of crime compared with national averages. The community benefits from a close‑knit atmosphere and active neighborhood watch programs. Police services are provided by a local department that coordinates with state law‑enforcement agencies. Emergency medical response is handled by a regional health‑care provider with ambulance coverag...
Where can I find medical care in Cordova?
Cordova has a community health clinic that offers primary care, urgent care, and basic dental services. For specialist care, patients usually travel to larger regional hospitals accessible by the state ferry system or by air charter. The clinic coordinates referrals and can help arrange transportation for appointments outside the town. Insurance providers typically list participating physicians on their websites, and...
How does the cost of living in Cordova compare to the rest of Alaska?
Cordova’s cost‑of‑living index is 120, meaning it is about 20 % higher than the national average. Compared with many parts of Alaska, especially interior towns, this is relatively typical for a coastal community where goods must be shipped in. Expect groceries, utilities and services to cost more than in Anchorage, where the index is usually closer to the national average. To budget accurately, use an online cost‑of‑...
What outdoor activities are popular in Cordova?
Cordova’s location on the Prince William Sound makes it a hub for marine recreation such as salmon and halibut fishing, both chartered and from the shore. The surrounding mountains and forest trails provide ample hiking opportunities, with several well‑marked routes that range from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks. In winter, residents take advantage of cross‑country skiing and snowshoeing on groomed trail...
What kinds of jobs are most common in Cordova?
Cordova’s economy is heavily tied to marine industries, so fisheries, seafood processing, and related logistics are the most common employment sectors. Seasonal tourism also creates jobs in hospitality, guiding, and retail during the summer months. In addition, the city supports education, public safety, and health‑care positions that are steady year‑round. For job seekers, the municipal website and regional employme...
What transportation options exist for getting around Cordova?
Cordova’s size means most destinations are reachable on foot or by bicycle, especially during the summer months. The city operates a modest public transit service that runs a few routes connecting residential areas with the downtown core, schools, and the ferry terminal. In addition, there are informal car‑pool and rideshare arrangements organized through community bulletin boards and online groups. For longer trips,...
How are the public schools rated in Cordova?
Cordova’s public schools are administered by a single district that serves all grade levels in the community. The schools typically have small class sizes, which allows for more individualized attention, and they offer standard core curricula plus extracurricular activities such as outdoor clubs, sports, and arts programs that reflect the local environment. State education department report cards are available online...
What should I know about moving goods to Cordova?
Because Cordova is not connected to the continental road network, most household goods are transported by sea freight or air cargo. Shipping containers are loaded onto the state ferry or commercial vessels that service the port, and the city’s public works department provides guidelines on delivery schedules and dock fees. For larger items, you can arrange a moving company that specializes in Alaskan coastal moves; t...
How does the average salary in Cordova compare to living costs?
The average annual salary in Cordova is $65,000, slightly below your $70,000 figure, giving you a modest income advantage. With an average rent of $1,800 per month, housing will consume about 31 % of a $70,000 salary before taxes, which is within typical budgeting guidelines. However, the cost‑of‑living index of 120 indicates that groceries, utilities and services are roughly 20 % higher than the national average, so...
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Cordova?
The average rent across all housing types in Cordova is $1,800 per month. One‑bedroom apartments usually fall near that figure, though exact prices depend on size, condition and proximity to the waterfront. Rental listings are posted on regional online classifieds and through local property management services. When budgeting, include utilities, which can be higher due to the climate. It’s also wise to ask about any...
Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Cordova? Add your own.
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