City Profile
Wrangell, Alaska
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Wrangell is a historic and tight-knit island community located in the picturesque enterprise of Southeast Alaska. Originally inhabited by the Tlingit people and later established as a fur trading post, the city boasts a rich multicultural heritage shaped by Russian, British, and American influences. Today, Wrangell serves as a tranquil haven for those seeking a rugged, nature-immersed lifestyle far removed from major urban centers. People are drawn to the area for its pristine wilderness, world-class fishing, and a slower-paced community where neighbors genuinely know one another.
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 59/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 88 / 100 | 88.0 | 30% | 26.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 122.0 | 16.3 | 25% | 4.1 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $63,750 Income needed to live here: $52,000 Unemployment rate: 3% | 70.4 | 20% | 14.1 |
| Growth | No usable reading — dataset average used | 56.4 | 15% | 8.5 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 62 / 100 | 62.0 | 10% | 6.2 |
| Overall score | 59.2 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (ungrounded) (q=55, 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.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Wrangell reflects its remote, island nature, featuring higher prices for goods, fuel, and freight-dependent items compared to the U.S. national average. While certain local housing options and apartment rentals remain relatively modest compared to larger Alaskan hubs like Anchorage or Juneau, energy and utility expenses can climb significantly during the harsh winter months. Overall, residents balance higher retail costs with lower expenditures on mass consumerism, opting instead for a simpler lifestyle reliant on local resources.
Income
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Wrangell's economy is primarily driven by traditional resource-based industries, including commercial fishing, timber processing, and seafood processing. Public administration, healthcare, and seasonal tourism also provide substantial employment opportunities for local residents. While large-scale corporate job growth is limited, the community has seen a modest rise in remote work adoption and micro-entrepreneurship. Job seekers will find that adaptability and multi-skilling are essential attributes in this localized market.
The average salary in Wrangell is $63,750 per year. You would need approximately $52,000 to live comfortably.
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Transport
Getting around Wrangell typically relies on personal vehicles, trucks, or boats, given the expansive geographic layout of the borough and its island geography. The community is served by the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system and Wrangell Airport, providing vital connections to the mainland and neighboring islands. Public mass transit is virtually nonexistent, and walkability is concentrated primarily within the compact downtown center.
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