City Profile
Nome, Alaska
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Nome is a historic coastal city located on the Seward Peninsula along the Bering Sea in western Alaska. Founded as a booming gold rush tent city in 1899, it quickly grew into the largest city in Alaska at the time before stabilizing into a resilient hub for commerce, transportation, and indigenous culture. Today, Nome is world-famous as the historic finish line of the iconic Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and as a vibrant community deeply rooted in Inupiat heritage and modern Arctic lifestyle. People are drawn to Nome for its unmatched wilderness access, rich cultural history, unique frontier character, and sense of tight-knit community resilience.
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 42/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 58 / 100 | 58.0 | 30% | 17.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 145.0 | 0.0 | 25% | 0.0 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $113,646 Income needed to live here: $60,000 Unemployment rate: 8.5% | 59.4 | 20% | 11.9 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: no usable reading Job growth rate: 1.1% | 42.0 | 15% | 6.3 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 62 / 100 | 62.0 | 10% | 6.2 |
| Overall score | 41.8 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=61, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
11 October 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.
Featured Events
Happening in Nome
Featured and sponsored events in Nome.
Local Directory
Businesses in Nome
Featured local businesses in Nome.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
Living in Nome carries a substantially higher price tag than the U.S. national average due to its remote, roadless location on the Seward Peninsula. Nearly all goods, fuel, vehicles, and construction materials must be shipped in via air freight or seasonal maritime barges, driving up the retail cost of groceries, utilities, and daily necessities. Residents also face steep heating and electrical expenses during the long Arctic winter months, though local wages and regional public sector or mining jobs often offset a portion of these baseline pressures.
Income
Salary Insights
Nome’s economy is anchored by public administration, healthcare, regional transportation, seasonal gold mining, and commercial fishing and subsistence activities. Major regional employers include the Norton Sound Health Corporation, the Bering Straits Native Corporation, local school districts, and government administrative agencies. While remote work is increasingly viable via satellite broadband expansion, the local job market centers primarily on hands-on industries, healthcare delivery, education, and seasonal tourism tied to major events like the Iditarod.
The average salary in Nome is $68,000 per year. You would need approximately $60,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Nome is not connected to the main Alaska highway system, meaning travel in and out relies almost entirely on scheduled commercial aviation via Nome Airport or summer cargo barges. Within the city, residents drive trucks or SUVs equipped for winter conditions, utilize local taxis, or walk short distances despite challenging weather. Walking scores are moderate in the compact downtown core, but vehicle ownership or all-terrain vehicles are necessary for exploring the wider Seward Peninsula road network.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Community Q&A
Questions about Nome
What people ask about living in and moving to Nome, Alaska.
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Nome?
In Nome the average rent for a one‑bedroom unit is about $1,500 per month. This figure reflects the overall market and can vary depending on location, age of the building, and included utilities. For a more precise estimate, check recent listings on regional rental websites or contact local property managers. Keep in mind that the cost of living index is 145, meaning many goods and services are pricier than the natio...
What are the main industries hiring in Nome?
Nome’s economy centers on government services, transportation, tourism, and natural resource extraction such as mining and fishing. Logistics roles often appear in companies that support the port, air freight, and supply chains for remote communities. Check the city’s employment portal, regional job boards, and the state labor department’s listings for current openings. Networking through local chambers of commerce o...
How does the cost of living in Nome compare to the U.S. average?
Nome’s cost‑of‑living index is 145, meaning expenses are roughly 45 % higher than the national average. While the average salary is $68,000 per year, higher prices for groceries, heating, and transportation offset the earnings. Use a cost‑of‑living calculator to compare your current expenses with local averages, and factor in the $1,500 monthly rent when planning your budget. Local grocery stores and utility provider...
What public school options are there for K‑12 in Nome?
Nome is served by a single public school district that operates an elementary, middle, and high school covering K‑12. The district’s website provides enrollment procedures, school calendars, and performance data such as test scores and graduation rates. For additional programs like special education or extracurricular activities, consult the district’s parent resources page or contact the school administration direct...
Is Nome considered a safe place to live?
Nome’s safety score is 58 out of 100, indicating a moderate level of safety compared to other U.S. cities. Property crime tends to be higher than the national average, while violent crime rates are closer to average. The city maintains a police department and a volunteer fire service; response times can be longer in outlying areas due to geography. Reviewing recent crime reports on the city’s public safety portal and...
What public transportation is available in Nome?
Nome operates a modest municipal bus system that runs several routes through the town center and surrounding residential areas. Schedules and fare information are posted on the city transit authority’s website. For areas not covered by the bus, many residents rely on shared rides, taxis, or community shuttle services that can be booked online or by phone. If you need to travel beyond the city, the regional airport pr...
Where can I find medical care in Nome?
Nome has a community health center that offers primary care, urgent care, and some specialty services. For more complex treatments, patients are often referred to larger hospitals in regional hubs reachable by air. The health center’s website lists provider schedules, accepted insurance plans, and telehealth options that can reduce travel. It’s advisable to confirm appointment availability in advance and discuss any...
What outdoor activities are popular in Nome during summer?
Summer in Nome offers extensive opportunities for fishing, especially for salmon and trout, both from the waterfront and nearby streams. The surrounding tundra and coastal areas provide trails for hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching. Guided tours are available through local outfitters, and the city’s parks often host cultural events and festivals. Check the city’s tourism page for trail maps, fishing regulatio...
What should I know about shipping household goods to Nome?
Because Nome is remote, most household shipments travel by sea freight to the port and then by truck or local delivery. Expect longer transit times and higher freight costs than mainland moves. It’s common to use a moving company experienced with Alaskan logistics; they can handle customs paperwork, palletization, and final delivery. Contact the city’s port authority for guidelines on cargo handling and check the sta...
What’s the climate like year‑round in Nome?
Nome has a sub‑arctic climate with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Average winter temperatures often stay below freezing, and strong winds can increase wind chill. Summer highs rarely exceed 60 °F (15 °C), but daylight is abundant. Snow can linger into May, and permafrost affects building foundations. Prepare by insulating your home, using winter‑rated clothing, and maintaining a reliable heating system....
Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Nome? Add your own.
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