Dillingham Census Area, AK

Dillingham Census Area, AK

The Dillingham Census Area is a census area located in the state of Alaska, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 4,916. The census area's largest community by far is Dillingham, from which it derives its name. The area is part of the unorganized borough and therefore has no borough seat. Its vast land area is 20,915.3 square miles, making it larger than several U.S. states.

Geography

Dillingham Census Area is located in the southwestern part of Alaska, with the Bering Sea forming its western boundary. It is bordered by the Bethel Census Area to the north, Lake and Peninsula Borough to the east, and Bristol Bay Borough to the south.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population of Dillingham Census Area was 4,916. The racial makeup of the area was 70.6% Alaska Native, 15.9% White, 0.9% Asian, 0.3% Black or African American, and 12.3% from two or more races.

Healthcare in Dillingham Census Area, AK

Healthcare in Dillingham Census Area is primarily provided by the Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation (BBAHC). The BBAHC operates the Kanakanak Hospital in Dillingham, a 16-bed facility providing comprehensive healthcare services including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient services, dental and vision care, and behavioral health services.

Another significant healthcare provider in the area is the Dillingham Public Health Center, operated by the Alaska Division of Public Health. The center provides a range of public health services including immunizations, chronic disease prevention and management, maternal and child health services, and health education.

The Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation also provides healthcare services to residents of the Dillingham Census Area. Services include primary care, dental care, behavioral health, and health promotion and disease prevention.

Education

Education in Dillingham Census Area is provided by the Dillingham City School District and the Southwest Region School District. The districts operate several schools in the area, providing education from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

Economy

The economy of Dillingham Census Area is primarily based on fishing, government services, and healthcare. The area is home to one of the world's largest sockeye salmon fisheries, and many residents are employed in fishing or related industries.

Transportation

Transportation in Dillingham Census Area is primarily by air and sea, due to the area's remote location and lack of road connections to the rest of Alaska. The Dillingham Airport provides commercial air service, and a number of smaller airports and seaplane bases are located throughout the area.