Noted scientists in Fairbanks say this is the best location in Alaska to view the northern lights . The economy of Arctic Village is subsistence-based. Caribou, moose, sheep, porcupine, rabbit and ptarmigan are hunted. Freshwater fish, waterfowl and berries are also harvested. The school , clinic, village council and stores are the primary employers.
Some residents trap or sell firewood for income.
The Neets'aii Gwichin of Arctic Village lead a subsistence-based lifestyle. The village council is combined with the nearby village of Venetie. These are the people who successfully fought off oil development in the arctic national wildlife refuge. Air transportation provides the only year-round access to Arctic Village. Ice fog frequently interferes with air service in winter months.