Noorvik, Alaska Population, Hospitals, Airports, and Schools

Noorvik, Alaska is a small city located in the northern region of the state. The city is situated on the Kobuk River, which is known for its salmon fishing. Noorvik has a population of just over 700 people and covers an area of about 10 square miles.

Geographically, Noorvik is located in the Brooks Range mountain range and surrounded by tundra. The weather in Noorvik is generally cold and dry with temperatures ranging from -30°F to 60°F during the winter months and between 20°F to 70°F during the summer months. There is also an abundance of snowfall throughout the year, making it ideal for winter sports such as skiing and snowmobiling.

Noorvik has a rich history dating back to 1795 when it was first established as an Eskimo settlement by Russian fur traders. It has since become one of Alaska’s oldest towns with many historical sites that attract visitors from all over the world.

Politically, Noorvik operates under a mayor-council form of government with an elected mayor who serves as head of government and is assisted by five council members who are elected at large on a nonpartisan basis every two years. The city also operates its own school system including elementary, middle, and high schools.

Economically, Noorvik relies heavily on subsistence activities such as hunting, fishing, trapping, and berry picking for its main source of income. The city also benefits from tourism due to its beautiful natural surroundings and historical sites.

Noorvik has many landmarks that are worth visiting including St Michael’s Catholic Church which was built in 1846; Koolyahliq Park which offers stunning views of the Kobuk River; and Caribou Lake which is popular among fishermen during summer months due to its abundant fish population. Additionally, there are several museums dedicated to preserving native culture such as Iñupiaq Heritage Center where visitors can learn about traditional art forms like soapstone carving or beadwork making.

Population: 634. Estimated population in July 2024: 672 (+6.0% change)
Males: 365 (57.6%), Females: 269 (42.4%)

Zip code: 99763

Demographics

Median resident age: 21.2 years
Median household income: $51,964
Median house value: $68,900

Population by Race

Races in Noorvik:

  • American Indian (95.0%)
  • White Non-Hispanic (4.9%)
  • Two or more races (4.9%)

Ancestries: German (2.8%).

Elevation: 82 feet

Land area: 1.0 square miles

Map of Noorvik, AK

Population by Education

Noorvik, Alaska is home to a diverse population of about 600 people. The majority of the population is Alaska Native, with nearly 80% of residents being Inupiat Eskimos. The remaining 20% consists of non-Native Americans and immigrants from other parts of the world.

Many residents are part of extended families that have been in Noorvik for generations, and many still practice traditional subsistence hunting and fishing. The most common language spoken in Noorvik is Inupiaq, however English is also widely spoken in the community. Education is highly valued in Noorvik, with many students attending nearby schools or college courses online.

In recent years, the population has seen an influx of younger people due to new job opportunities created by businesses moving into the area. With its close proximity to nature and outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting, Noorvik also attracts tourists from all over the world who come to experience its unique culture and scenery. Generally speaking, Noorvik offers a welcoming atmosphere for all its residents regardless of their background or origin.

For population 25 years and over in Noorvik

  • High school or higher: 63.9%
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher: 7.2%
  • Graduate or professional degree: 1.5%
  • Unemployed: 19.6%
  • Mean travel time to work: 9.6 minutes

For population 15 years and over in Noorvik city

  • Never married: 53.3%
  • Now married: 41.0%
  • Separated: 1.1%
  • Widowed: 2.4%
  • Divorced: 2.2%

0.0% Foreign born

Population change in the 1990s: +100 (+18.7%).

Hospitals

Hospitals/medical centers near Noorvik:

  • MANILAQ HEALTH CENTER (about 108 miles; KOTZEBUE, AK)
  • NORTON SOUND REGIONAL HOSPITAL (about 324 miles; NOME, AK)
  • YUKON KUSKOKWIM DELTA REG HOSPITAL (about 422 miles; BETHEL, AK)

Airports

Airports certified for carrier operations nearest to Noorvik:

  • RALPH WIEN MEMORIAL (about 108 miles; KOTZEBUE, AK; Abbreviation: OTZ)
  • RED DOG (about 153 miles; RED DOG, AK; Abbreviation: AED)
  • NOME (about 344 miles; NOME, AK; Abbreviation: OME)

Other public-use airports nearest to Noorvik:

  • ROBERT/BOB/CURTIS MEML (about 2 miles; NOORVIK, AK; Abbreviation: D76)
  • BOB BAKER MEML (about 43 miles; KIANA, AK; Abbreviation: IAN)
  • BUCKLAND (about 61 miles; BUCKLAND, AK; Abbreviation: BVK)

Colleges and Universities

Colleges/universities with over 2000 students nearest to Noorvik:

  • UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA ANCHORAGE (about 868 miles; ANCHORAGE, AK; Full-time enrollment: 9,453)
  • UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS (about 924 miles; FAIRBANKS, AK; Full-time enrollment: 5,034)
  • PENINSULA COLLEGE (about 2904 miles; PORT ANGELES, WA; Full-time enrollment: 2,374)
  • WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (about 2942 miles; BELLINGHAM, WA; Full-time enrollment: 11,889)
  • WHATCOM COMMUNITY COLLEGE (about 2945 miles; BELLINGHAM, WA; Full-time enrollment: 2,656)
  • SKAGIT VALLEY COLLEGE (about 2960 miles; MT VERNON, WA; Full-time enrollment: 3,420)
  • EVERGREEN STATE COLLEGE (about 2963 miles; OLYMPIA, WA; Full-time enrollment: 3,749)

Public primary/middle school in Noorvik:

  • AQQALUK HIGH/NOORVIK ELEMENTARY (Students: 220; Location: 165 FIREWEED DR.; Grades: PK – 12)