Nome Census Area

Nome Census Area is an administrative region in northwestern Alaska featuring tundra landscapes and coastline along the Bering Sea. The area encompasses several communities spread across sparsely populated terrain.

Gold discovery in 1898 brought thousands of prospectors to the area and sparked rapid settlement growth. This period left a lasting mark on the region's development.

The Iñupiat communities shape everyday life through practices passed down over generations. Fishing, hunting, and gathering remain woven into how people here live with the land.

Air transportation is the main way to reach this region, as road connections are limited. The warmer months offer the most reliable flight schedules and travel conditions.

Nome hosts the finish line of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, one of the world's longest dog sled competitions. Each year teams cross the finish line here after an exhausting journey through remote terrain.

Location: Unorganized Borough

Location: Alaska

Inception: 1980

Shares border with: Northwest Arctic Borough, Kusilvak Census Area, Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area

GPS coordinates: 64.74000,-164.19000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:08