However, major epidemics of introduced diseases struck the Fort Yukon population from the 1860s until the 1920s. In 1949, a flood damaged or destroyed many homes in Fort Yukon. During the 1950s, a White Alice radar site and an Air Force station were established. Fort Yukon incorporated as a city in 1959. Most Fort Yukon residents are descendants of the Yukon Flats, Chandalar River, Birch Creek, Black River and Porcupine River Gwich'in tribes.
Subsistence is an important component of the local culture.
The sale of alcohol is restricted to the City-owned package store. Economy City, state, federal agencies and the native corporation are the primary employers in Fort Yukon. The School District is the largest employer. Unlike many Alaska villages, winter tourism is becoming increasingly popular - Fort Yukon experiences spectacular Northern Lights. One resident holds a commercial fishing permit.