[8] Despite its small population, the village is an important transportation and economic hub for the area.

Since McGrath was the northernmost point on the Kuskokwim River accessible by large riverboats, it became a regional supply center.

[9] The Iditarod Trail also contributed to McGrath's role as a supply center.

From 1911 to 1920, hundreds of people walked and mushed over the trail on their way to the Ophir gold districts.

In 1940, an airstrip was cleared, the United States Federal Aviation Administration built a communications complex, and a school was opened.

McGrath became an important refueling stop for Lend-Lease equipment during World War II.

26.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

KSKO simulcasts to the villages of Grayling (KGYA), Shageluk (KNKO), Holy Cross (KLOP), Nikolai (KNIB), Sleetmute (KSKP), Crooked Creek (KSKC), and Anvik (KMGS).