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OnKetchikan.com

Ketchikan, AK
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Discover Ketchikan - Alaska's First City and cultural treasure on the Inside Passage!

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8K Population
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$63K Median Income
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$350K Median Home Price
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6 Square Miles

About Ketchikan, AK

Ketchikan, known as Alaska's First City, serves as the southernmost entrance to Alaska's famed Inside Passage, a network of fjords, islands, and mesmerizing scenery. The city sits on Revillagigedo Island and is renowned for its rich history, deeply rooted in Native Alaskan culture and the fishing industry. Ketchikan is home to the world's largest collection of standing totem poles, found throughout the city and showcased in places like Saxman Native Village and Totem Bight State Historical Park.

Tourism plays a significant role in Ketchikan's economy, with thousands visiting each year to experience its unique blend of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures. Nestled between lush forests and stunning coastal waters, Ketchikan offers activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Moreover, its vibrant arts scene is evident in the numerous galleries and the annual Blueberry Arts Festival, reflecting the community’s creative spirit.

Despite its relatively small population, Ketchikan boasts a strong sense of community and resilience. Residents enjoy a slower pace of life with a deep connection to the land and sea. The city's economy is bolstered by commercial fishing, logging, and tourism, while newer ventures in technology and renewable energy sectors are emerging, ensuring that Ketchikan continues to thrive while embracing its rich heritage.

Quality of Life Scores

Data-driven insights into what makes Ketchikan special

67
🚢 Walkability
60
πŸ›‘οΈ Safety
65
🍽️ Food Scene
70
🎭 Arts & Culture
58
πŸŒ™ Nightlife
40
⚽ Sports Culture
50
🌬️ Air Quality
90
πŸš— Traffic Flow

Quality of life scores are aggregated from publicly available data sources including the U.S. Census Bureau, FBI Crime Statistics, EPA Air Quality Index, walkability studies, and local municipal data. Scores are calculated on a 0-100 scale and updated periodically to reflect current conditions.

Demographics & Economy

Understanding the community and economic landscape

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Demographics

Median Age 39.2 years
Diversity Index 55.0%

Ketchikan is a vibrant, close-knit community with a rich blend of Native Alaskan heritage, attracting locals and tourists alike.

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Economy

Median Income $62,500
Unemployment Rate 6.5%
Job Growth Rate 2.1%

Strong economic foundation driven by diverse industries including tourism, fishing, timber, arts and crafts, retail.

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Housing

Median Home Price $350,000
Cost of Living Index 126
Rent/Own Ratio 48.2%

Real estate market offers opportunities for residents and investors with balanced housing options across neighborhoods.

Education Excellence

World-class learning opportunities and achievements

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Education Levels

Bachelor's Degree or Higher 22.6%
High School Graduation Rate 96.3%
College Enrollment Rate 58.7%
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Institutions

  • Schools: 12
  • Universities: 1
  • Libraries: 1
  • Student-Teacher Ratio: 13.5:1

Transportation & Infrastructure

Getting around Ketchikan

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Roads & Highways

Major Highways: Alaska Route 7

Average Commute: 15 minutes

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Public Transit

Ketchikan Gateway Borough Transit

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Airports

KTN - Ketchikan International Airport

Places & Attractions

Discover what makes Ketchikan unique

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Landmarks

  • Totem Heritage Center
  • Saxman Native Village
  • Totem Bight State Historical Park
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Attractions

  • Creek Street
  • Misty Fjords National Monument
  • Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary
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Museums

  • Tongass Historical Museum
  • Totem Heritage Center
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Parks

  • Tongass National Forest
  • Refuge Cove State Recreation Site
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Healthcare

  • PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center

Key Industries

Economic drivers powering Ketchikan

Tourism Fishing Timber Arts and Crafts Retail

Living Here

Essential information about life in Ketchikan

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Climate & Geography

Climate: Oceanic

Elevation: 33 feet

Time Zone: America/Sitka

County: Ketchikan Gateway Borough

Metro Area: None

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Contact Information

Area Code: 907

ZIP Codes: 99901, 99950

Location

Find Ketchikan on the map

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