The outstanding commercial fishing opportunities in the Bristol Bay area are the focus of the local culture. During the April 1990 U.S. Census, there were 851 total housing units, and 160 of these were vacant. 841 jobs were estimated to be in the community. Dillingham's water is derived from three deep wells. Over one-half of homes use individual wells.
Sewage is collected by pipe, deposited and treated in a sewage lagoon.
Residents outside of the townsite use individual systems. Dillingham Refuse Inc., a private firm, collects refuse three times a week. The Senior Center collects aluminum for recycling, and NAPA recycles used batteries. The Chamber of Commerce coordinates recycling of several materials, including fishing web. A new landfill site with a baling facility is currently being planned.