Wrangell County in Southeast — urban density and zoning complexity lower the buildability score, but opportunities exist in outlying areas.
📊35/100AcreScore
💰$3KLand $/acre
🏠$235KHome Value
👥2,127Population
📈+-3%Growth (10yr)
🌊20%Flood RiskModerate
🌡️Maritime, Stikine River gatewayClimateZone 7b
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Wrangell County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Wrangell County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 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
Wrangell County Building Department
Wrangell, AK
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Elevated flood risk at 20%. Wrangell 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 $3,000 per acre make Wrangell County one of the most budget-friendly options in Alaska.
$3K
Median $/acre
$235K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
1.1%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Wrangell County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Wrangell County sits in the heart of Southeast. Juneau is 155 mi away. No state income tax means your dollar stretches further here than in most states.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $3,000/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population2,127
10-Year Growth-3%
County SeatWrangell
State Income TaxNone
ClimateMaritime, Stikine River gateway (Zone 7b)
How Close Is Everything?
Juneau155 mi
Wrangell Airport5 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Wrangell County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Wrangell. 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 Wrangell County due to urban classification. FHA, VA, and conventional financing options are available.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Wrangell County?
Check with the Wrangell County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Wrangell County?
Median price is approximately $3,000 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements.
Is Wrangell County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Most of Wrangell 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 Wrangell County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 1.1%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Wrangell 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.