Prince of Wales-Hyder County in Southeast — urban density and development pressure lower the buildability score, but opportunities exist in outlying areas.
📊35/100AcreScore
💰$3KLand $/acre
🏠$195KHome Value
👥6,203Population
📈+-2%Growth (10yr)
🌊20%Flood RiskModerate
🌡️Maritime rainforest, large island with logging historyClimateZone 7b
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Alaska has no state building code — regulations are county-level. Prince of Wales-Hyder County has no formal zoning ordinance, meaning most rural land can be used for residential construction including barndominiums without special permits beyond standard building codes.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Unzoned
None
✅ Yes
Prince of Wales-Hyder County has no formal zoning ordinance. Standard building permits still required. Contact the county building department for specifics.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Alaska requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Prince of Wales-Hyder County Building Department
Craig, AK
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Elevated flood risk at 20%. Prince of Wales-Hyder County has significant FEMA flood zone coverage — careful site selection and flood insurance may be required. Check FEMA maps for your specific parcel.
20%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Varies
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Extremely affordable. Median land prices around $2,500 per acre make Prince of Wales-Hyder County one of the most budget-friendly options in Alaska.
$3K
Median $/acre
$195K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
0%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Prince of Wales-Hyder County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Prince of Wales-Hyder County sits in the heart of Southeast. Ketchikan is 45 mi away. No state income tax means your dollar stretches further here than in most states.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $2,500/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🔨
Build Freedom
No formal zoning means you can build your barndominium, shop, or homestead without jumping through bureaucratic hoops.
At a Glance
Population6,203
10-Year Growth-2%
County SeatCraig
State Income TaxNone
ClimateMaritime rainforest, large island with logging history (Zone 7b)
How Close Is Everything?
Ketchikan45 mi
Klawock Airport10 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Prince of Wales-Hyder County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Craig. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
USDA Rural Development loans are generally not available in Prince of Wales-Hyder County due to urban classification. FHA, VA, and conventional financing options are available.
New listings, zoning changes, and builder availability — delivered to your inbox.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Prince of Wales-Hyder County?
Yes. Prince of Wales-Hyder County has no formal zoning ordinance. You'll still need standard building permits, but barndominiums are generally permitted on rural land. Check with the county building department for specific requirements.
How much does land cost in Prince of Wales-Hyder County?
Median price is approximately $2,500 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements.
Is Prince of Wales-Hyder County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Most of Prince of Wales-Hyder County is not eligible for USDA Rural Development due to its urban/suburban classification. Check the USDA eligibility map for specific addresses.
What is the property tax rate in Prince of Wales-Hyder County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 0%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Prince of Wales-Hyder County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Alaska, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.