Discovering the Charms of Unalakleet, Alaska

Unalakleet, Alaska, is a vibrant coastal community that boasts unique beauty and a tight-knit spirit. This delightful village sits where the mystical Norton Sound meets the powerful Bering Sea, providing residents with breathtaking vistas and a profound connection to nature. The spectacular landscape dazzles across all seasons, from the white wonder of winter to the rich, vibrant hues of summer tundra.

Living in Unalakleet means being part of a community that thrives on collaboration and cultural heritage. With a rich Inupiat and Yupik history, this village offers a deep appreciation for its indigenous roots, shared through traditional practices like subsistence fishing and berry picking. The community comes together during the annual Inupiat Heritage Festival, celebrating art, dance, and storytelling, fostering unity and cultural pride.

The warmth of Unalakleet's locals is as inviting as the stunning surroundings. Neighbors support each other through long winters, sharing resources and camaraderie. The strong sense of togetherness is evident in the local school and community events, where everyone plays a role in shaping a positive future for the next generation.

In Unalakleet, life is lived in harmony with nature and tradition, offering a serene yet enriching lifestyle that captures the heart of anyone fortunate enough to call it home.

Workforce & Industrial Development

Unalakleet, positioned on Alaska’s western coast along Norton Sound, serves as a strategic gateway for industrial and logistics operations in the Bering Strait region. The city’s deepwater port and proximity to the Iditarod Trail make it a vital link for freight, seafood processing, and regional distribution, especially for industries serving remote western Alaska and Arctic markets.

Industrial land in Unalakleet is managed through local and tribal entities, with available sites for warehousing, cold storage, and light manufacturing. The city’s location offers unique advantages for companies involved in fisheries, renewable energy, and supply chain logistics, particularly those requiring access to both marine and air transport. Unalakleet Airport, with its paved runway and year-round operations, supports cargo and passenger connectivity to Anchorage and beyond.

Alaska’s state-level incentives, such as the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) programs, provide financing and infrastructure support for qualifying projects. Workforce development is coordinated through regional organizations and the Alaska Department of Labor, with training tailored to maritime, construction, and technical trades. Local economic development offices assist with permitting, site selection, and connections to regional resources.