Wrangell is a small but historically rich community in Southeast Alaska, located on Wrangell Island along the Inside Passage. Established as a Russian trading post in the 1830s, it later became a U.S. town and remains one of Alaska’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements. Today, Wrangell thrives on fishing, timber, and tourism from cruise ships exploring nearby glaciers. The town’s vibe is small, friendly, and community-oriented, with a population of roughly 2,000. Housing consists mostly of traditional wood-frame homes, waterfront cottages, and modest newer builds. Because of limited developable land, properties tend to be compact but well-kept, with many offering ocean or forest views. The area is entirely rural with a close-knit downtown. Home prices generally fall between $280,000 – $450,000, with occasional higher-end coastal homes. Building new homes costs roughly $325 – $400 per sq ft, due to shipping materials via barge. The nearest major city is Juneau, about 150 miles north, accessible only by ferry or plane. Wrangell’s charm lies in its historic feel, tight community, and stunning coastal setting.