Alaska is famous for its stunning natural beauty, but it also comes with many risks. From harsh weather to encounters with wild animals, living in Alaska can be tough and sometimes dangerous.
Different Levels of Danger in Alaskan Cities
Not all cities in Alaska are equally dangerous. Recent FBI data shows that some cities are more dangerous than others. This article will reveal which city is the most dangerous place to live in Alaska and why.
Anchorage: Alaska’s Most Dangerous City
Anchorage is the largest and most populated city in Alaska, with about 288,000 people. This makes up about 40% of the state’s total population. Anchorage is the economic and cultural center of Alaska, attracting tourists, businesses, and new residents.
However, Anchorage has a high crime rate, especially violent crimes. According to FBI statistics, in 2018, Anchorage had 11.40 violent crime incidents per 1,000 residents. This is higher than both the state average of 8.23 and the national average of 3.69 per 1,000 residents. Violent crimes include murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
Property crime rates in Anchorage are also high, with 34.55 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is above the state average of 24.87 and the national average of 22.0 per 1,000 residents. Property crimes include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft.
Several factors contribute to the high crime rates in Anchorage, including poverty, homelessness, drug abuse, mental health issues, domestic violence, and gang activity. Additionally, the city struggles to provide enough law enforcement and social services to address these problems.
Cordova: Alaska’s Safest Haven
On the other hand, Cordova is considered the safest city in Alaska. This peaceful coastal town has about 2,200 residents. In 2018, Cordova reported zero violent crime incidents per 1,000 residents, meaning there were no murders, rapes, robberies, or aggravated assaults. The town also had a low property crime rate of 4.54 per 1,000 residents, much lower than both the state and national averages.
Cordova relies mainly on fishing and tourism for its income. The strong sense of community and civic involvement in Cordova likely helps prevent crime and promotes safety.
Staying Safe in Anchorage
If you live in or visit Anchorage, it’s important to take steps to stay safe. Here are some tips:
- Avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas; use public transportation or ride-sharing services.
- Keep your doors and windows locked, and secure your belongings when you leave your home or car.
- Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activities or people to the police.
- Stay away from illegal activities like drug use, gambling, or prostitution.
- Seek help if you are dealing with issues like domestic violence, addiction, or mental health problems.
In Conclusion
Alaska has a mix of cities, each with its own benefits and challenges. Some cities offer more opportunities and amenities but also come with higher risks and difficulties. Anchorage, the most dangerous city in Alaska, has high rates of both violent and property crimes.
Meanwhile, Cordova, the safest city in Alaska, enjoys very low crime rates. No matter where you live or visit in Alaska, staying aware of your surroundings and taking precautions to protect yourself and your property is essential.
