countyscore
46.8
County Score
Safety 97.5Income & Jobs 76.2Disaster Risk 64.3

County Report Card

About Dillingham Census Area, Alaska

Dillingham scores near national median

With a composite score of 46.8, Dillingham Census Area sits just below the national median of 50.0, putting it in the 45th percentile nationwide. This mid-range score reflects a county with distinct strengths and notable gaps across different livability dimensions.

Below average for Alaska

Dillingham ranks in the lower half of Alaska's counties with a score of 46.8 compared to the state average of 51.1. The county trails most of its Alaskan peers on overall livability metrics.

Safety and income stand out

Dillingham excels in safety with a score of 97.5, among Alaska's highest, and maintains strong median household income of $74,250. The county also scores respectably on risk factors (64.3), suggesting reasonable disaster and environmental resilience.

Health and tax burden lag

Health services are a significant concern with a score of just 7.6, indicating limited medical resources and outcomes. The tax score of 6.0 reflects a heavy tax burden, which combined with moderate housing affordability (48.1), constrains overall livability.

Best for hardy, income-secure families

Dillingham suits families with solid incomes who prioritize safety and don't rely heavily on extensive health services. This is a place for people drawn to Alaska's frontier character who can manage limited medical access and higher tax obligations.

20406080100648.197.57.650.676.264.36.250Tax6Cost48.1Safety97.5Health7.6Schools50.6Income76.2Risk64.3Water6.2Weather5046.8/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

Dillingham Census Area DNA

Foverall

How Dillingham Census Area compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Dillingham Census Area is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (97.5/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (6.2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
6-46
Cost
48.1
Safety
97.5+42.5
Health
7.6-42.4
Schools
50.6
Income
76.2+25.200000000000003
Risk
64.3+17.299999999999997
Water
6.2-51.8
Weather
50
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Think property taxes are too high in Dillingham Census Area?

Many homeowners in Dillingham Census Area pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$163,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,085/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$163,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$43,400/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.2x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $74,250/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

146.4

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Dillingham Census Area with Elbert County →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Bristol Bay Borough
Alaska
45.9
Lake and Peninsula Borough
Alaska
46.2
Bethel Census Area
Alaska
45.9
Kodiak Island Borough
Alaska
47.5
Kusilvak Census Area
Alaska
55.2
Kenai Peninsula Borough
Alaska
52.4
Aleutians East Borough
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Anchorage Municipality
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29.5

Deep Dives

Dillingham Census Area across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Dillingham Census Area

via TaxByCounty

Dillingham's rate towers above the nation

At 1.755%, Dillingham's effective property tax rate is more than double the national median of 0.88%, placing it in the 87th percentile nationally. Most homeowners across America pay significantly less on the same home value. Dillingham residents shoulder a heavier tax burden than the vast majority of U.S. counties.

Dillingham ranks second highest in Alaska

Only Fairbanks North Star Borough (1.264%) comes close to Dillingham's 1.755% effective rate among Alaska counties. This rate is more than double Alaska's state average of 0.772%, making Dillingham a clear outlier even within Alaska. The gap reflects Dillingham's uniquely high tax burden statewide.

Dillingham heavily outpaces Southeast Alaska peers

Dillingham's 1.755% rate dwarfs nearby Haines Borough (0.802%) and Hoonah-Angoon Census Area (0.416%). Even when compared to distant Juneau (0.934%), Dillingham taxes are nearly twice as steep. The regional disparity highlights Dillingham's exceptional position in Alaska's tax landscape.

The median Dillingham home costs $2,875 yearly

With a median home value of $163,800 and a 1.755% effective rate, a typical homeowner pays $2,875 annually in property taxes. Add mortgage-related taxes and the figure rises to $3,410 per year. For renters or those without mortgages, the baseline remains $1,638—still above the state average.

Many Dillingham homeowners may be overassessed

Property assessments aren't always accurate, and overassessed homeowners can file formal appeals to lower their tax burden. Given Dillingham's high overall rate, it's worth reviewing your assessment notice to ensure your home's valuation reflects current market conditions. An appeal could reduce your annual liability.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Dillingham Census Area

via CostByCounty

Dillingham's rent burden beats national norms

At 17.5%, Dillingham's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national sweet spot, meaning renters here dedicate less of their paycheck to housing than typical Americans. With a median household income of $74,250—nearly identical to the nation's $74,755—this area offers genuinely affordable rental housing relative to earnings.

Most affordable rent in Alaska

Dillingham ranks among Alaska's most affordable communities, with a rent-to-income ratio of 17.5% against the state average of 18.6%. The median monthly rent of $1,085 trails Alaska's state average of $1,221, making this census area a relative bargain in an expensive state.

Cheaper than other Alaska hubs

Dillingham's $1,085 monthly rent undercuts Fairbanks ($1,424), Juneau ($1,462), and Kodiak Island ($1,669), though it runs higher than tiny Haines ($914). Among mid-sized Alaskan communities, Dillingham offers one of the lowest housing costs while maintaining respectable median incomes.

Renters spend 17.5%, owners face $666/month

Dillingham renters allocate just 17.5% of their $74,250 annual income to the median $1,085 rent, leaving substantial room for other expenses. Owner-occupants pay a median $666 monthly, significantly lower than the state norm, making homeownership particularly accessible here.

Consider Dillingham for balanced living costs

If you're weighing Alaska relocations, Dillingham delivers affordable housing without sacrificing income—a rare combination statewide. Compare this 17.5% rent burden against pricier neighbors like Kodiak (23.9%) or Fairbanks (20.2%) to see your real savings potential.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Dillingham Census Area

via IncomeByCounty

Nearly on par with the nation

Dillingham's median household income of $74,250 sits just $505 below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it squarely in the middle of American earning power. This alignment masks Alaska's stronger overall economy—the state average is $79,407, meaning Dillingham trails its peers slightly.

Mid-pack in Alaska's income rankings

Among Alaska's eight major census areas and boroughs, Dillingham ranks fifth in median household income, earning 6.5% less than the state average. Its per capita income of $34,097 also falls below Alaska's $42,832 state average, suggesting a wider income distribution across households.

Outearned by larger regional hubs

Dillingham's $74,250 income trails nearby Fairbanks North Star Borough ($84,722) and Kenai Peninsula Borough ($77,722), reflecting its smaller economic base. However, it outpaces Hoonah-Angoon Census Area ($62,500) and Haines Borough ($72,607), positioning it as a mid-tier earner in Southwest Alaska.

Housing costs are comfortably manageable

At 17.5% of median household income, Dillingham's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the recommended 30% threshold, meaning housing remains affordable for most households. A median home value of $163,800 is also the lowest among Alaska's eight regions, making homeownership achievable compared to state peers.

Invest your housing savings advantage

With housing costs well controlled, Dillingham households have room to redirect earnings toward retirement savings, emergency funds, or investment accounts. Consider meeting with a financial advisor to develop a plan that locks in long-term wealth building while cost-of-living pressures remain moderate.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Dillingham Census Area

via CrimeByCounty

Dillingham Reports Zero Crime

Dillingham Census Area reports a total crime rate of 0.0 per 100,000, earning a perfect safety score of 100.0. This is a massive departure from the national average of 2,385.5.

Far Exceeding State Safety Averages

With no reported crimes in 2022, Dillingham ranks among the safest regions in Alaska. It far surpasses the state average safety score of 98.6 and the average crime rate of 861.7.

A Calm Regional Environment

Dillingham appears safer than neighboring Bethel (755.2) and Bristol Bay (1,639.4) based on official data. This low activity level makes it a standout for the region.

Formal Incident Levels are Negligible

Both violent and property crime rates are 0.0, reflecting a single reporting agency's data. While this indicates a safe area, residents should maintain standard safety awareness.

Stay Mindful of Home Security

Zero reported crime does not mean you should leave your doors unlocked. Using a video doorbell or smart locks can help you monitor your property and keep the area safe.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Dillingham Census Area

via SchoolsByCounty

A Vast Rural Network in Dillingham

Ten public schools serve 1,051 students across two distinct school districts in this remote region. The infrastructure includes one elementary school, one high school, and eight schools with unique 'other' configurations, such as PK-12 facilities. Most education occurs in small, integrated settings tailored to isolated communities.

High Investment with Room for Growth

The area invests $15,541 per pupil, significantly exceeding both the national average of $13,000 and the Alaska average of $13,745. Despite this high spending, the graduation rate sits at 72.1%, which trails the national benchmark of 87%. The composite school score of 62.6 slightly outperforms the state average.

Spotlight on Southwest Region Schools

The Southwest Region School District is the larger of the two providers, managing eight schools and 631 students. Dillingham City School District operates the remaining two schools, serving a more concentrated population of 420 students. There are currently no charter school options available within the census area.

Intimate Rural Learning Environments

Every single school in the Dillingham Census Area is classified as a rural locale, fostering close-knit campus cultures. The average school size is just 105 students, ranging from the Dillingham Middle/High School with 211 students down to much smaller village sites. While bachelor's attainment data is currently unavailable, these schools serve as vital community hubs.

Finding Your Place in Dillingham

Families moving to this region often prioritize proximity to the larger school sites in Dillingham or Togiak. As you research local real estate, consider how these unique PK-12 school structures meet your family's educational needs. School quality remains a vital factor for many homebuyers exploring the Bristol Bay area.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Dillingham Census Area

via RiskByCounty

Dillingham's disaster risk: Below average nationally

Dillingham Census Area scores 35.69 on the composite risk scale, ranking it as Very Low and nearly identical to Alaska's state average of 35.22. This puts the county well below the national average, meaning residents face fewer natural hazards than most U.S. counties.

Middle of the pack in Alaska

Among Alaska's counties, Dillingham ranks in the middle range for overall disaster risk, with a score just above the state average. The county sits between lower-risk Southeast Alaska communities and higher-risk interior regions.

Safer than interior peers, similar to coastal areas

Dillingham's risk profile is comparable to other Southwest Alaska communities and significantly lower than Fairbanks North Star Borough (88.52) and Kenai Peninsula Borough (93.03). Like coastal neighbors Hoonah-Angoon (14.31), Dillingham benefits from its geographic isolation.

Earthquakes and wildfires pose greatest threats

Earthquake risk dominates at 75.00, reflecting Alaska's position on the Pacific Ring of Fire, while wildfire risk reaches 62.15—the county's second major concern during summer months. Flood risk (3.09) and tornado risk (0.64) remain minimal threats.

Earthquake and fire insurance are essential here

Standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover earthquake or wildfire damage—you'll need separate policies for these hazards. Consider earthquake coverage given the 75.00 risk score and wildfire mitigation around your property, especially if you're in a forest-adjacent area.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Dillingham Census Area

via WaterByCounty

Significant Violations Strain Dillingham’s Water Systems

Dillingham receives an F grade for water quality with 31 health-based violations recorded over the last five years. Its violation rate of 601.4 per 100,000 residents sits below the state average of 1,249.1, but still signals consistent regulatory struggles. These numbers reflect persistent challenges in meeting Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

Watershed Health Data Remains Unassessed

Local water bodies in Dillingham have not yet been evaluated under federal Clean Water Act §303(d) standards. This lack of assessment means no formal data exists for the current reporting cycle regarding impairment or pollution levels. Residents currently lack a federal baseline for watershed health compared to the 16.1% impairment rate statewide.

Monitoring Records Focus on Physical Characteristics

State and federal agencies manage 12 monitoring sites across the census area, recording 408 measurements in five years. Most readings focus on physical, microbiological, and inorganic characteristics. This small footprint provides a targeted look at water quality but covers a limited geographic range.

Nuyakuk River Flows Below Typical Levels

The USGS gauge on the Nuyakuk River near Dillingham currently reports a discharge of 5,060 cfs. This flow represents only 79% of its long-term mean of 6,404 cfs for this time of year. Reduced streamflow can impact the concentration of dissolved substances and total available source water.

Focus on Filtration and System Reliability

Given the F grade and low streamflow, residents should prioritize home filtration to mitigate potential contaminants. Low river levels may also increase the sensitivity of source water to local pollution. Checking with local providers about the status of the 31 recent violations is a proactive first step.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Lawn Care in Dillingham Census Area

via LawnByCounty

Lawn Care in the Dillingham Frontier

While specific difficulty scores are unavailable for this region, maintaining a lawn in Dillingham requires navigating a rugged subarctic environment. Residents manage turf without the benefit of standard hardiness zone data, making local experience vital for success.

Working with a Remote Subarctic Climate

Climate data for this area is limited, but regional trends suggest a focus on moisture management rather than heat stress. With zero extreme heat days reported across Alaska, your lawn rarely faces the scorching temperatures common in the Lower 48.

Managing Uncharted Soil Conditions

Specific soil pH and texture data are not currently available for Dillingham, so home testing is the first step for any grower. Most Alaskan soils require significant organic amendments to balance drainage and nutrient availability for cool-season grasses.

Abundant Moisture and Low Drought Risk

Dillingham currently shows about 11.9% of its area as abnormally dry, but zero weeks have been spent in true drought over the last year. This low drought risk means your primary focus remains on site preparation rather than intensive irrigation.

Starting Your Lawn in Dillingham

Choose hardy cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass or Fine Fescue that can handle the Alaskan winters. Since frost dates are not strictly recorded here, monitor local soil temperatures and wait for the ground to fully thaw before seeding.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dillingham Census Area's county score?
Dillingham Census Area, Alaska has a composite county score of 46.8 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Dillingham Census Area rank among counties in Alaska?
Dillingham Census Area ranks #22 among all counties in Alaska on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Dillingham Census Area, Alaska?
The median annual property tax in Dillingham Census Area is $2,875, with an effective tax rate of 1.76%. This earns Dillingham Census Area a tax score of 6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Dillingham Census Area?
The median household income in Dillingham Census Area, Alaska is $74,250 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Dillingham Census Area earns an income score of 76.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Dillingham Census Area, Alaska a good place to live?
Dillingham Census Area scores 46.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #22 in Alaska. The best way to evaluate Dillingham Census Area is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Dillingham Census Area with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.