Kaktovik

Kaktovik is a city in the North Slope Borough in the U.S. state of Alaska. The population was 293 at the 2020 census, up from 239 in 2010. Kaktovik is located on Barter Island, off the coast of the Arctic Ocean, and is the only city in the United States that is within the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

History

Kaktovik was traditionally a fishing and hunting camp for the Inupiat people before it was permanently settled in the 20th century. The name "Kaktovik" comes from the Inupiat word Qaaktuġvik, which means "Seagull Roosting Place".

Geography

Kaktovik is located at 70°7′59″N 143°36′22″W. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.0 square mile (2.6 km2), all of it land.

Climate

Kaktovik has a polar climate with long, extremely cold winters and short, cool summers. The average high temperature in January is -14°F (-25.6°C), and the average high in July is 54°F (12.2°C).

Health

Kaktovik has a clinic managed by the Arctic Slope Native Association. The clinic provides emergency care, dental and mental health services, and health education. The nearest hospital is in Fairbanks, which is accessible by air.

Education

The North Slope Borough School District operates the Harold Kaveolook School in Kaktovik. The school serves grades Pre-K through 12.

Transportation

Kaktovik is not connected to any other cities by road. The primary means of transportation are by air and sea. The Kaktovik Airport provides commercial and charter flights.