Are you considering moving to Alaska? With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique culture, Alaska offers a wide range of exciting places to live.
From the bustling city of Sitka to the serene town of Homer, each destination has its own unique charm and advantages.
Here, we’ll explore the top 10 best places to live in Alaska, highlighting their best features and what makes them stand out.
1. North Pole: The Youngest and Most Affordable
Located just 15 minutes southeast of Fairbanks, North Pole is the youngest place on the list with an average age of 26. This charming town offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities.
With a median household income of $73,310 and a median property value of $255,000, North Pole is an affordable option for those looking to relocate.
Additionally, it boasts the highest number of inhabitants with medical insurance in the state at 91.2 percent, ensuring that medical expenses are well-covered.
2. Sitka: The Most Expensive but Worth It
Sitka, situated on the western side of Baranov Island, is the fifth most incredible place to live in Alaska. With a median property price of $358,600, Sitka is one of the most expensive cities in the United States.
However, this high cost comes with a range of benefits, including a low poverty rate of 4.3% and an unemployment rate of 2.4%.
The town also boasts a high standard of living, with a student-to-teacher ratio of 10:1 and a school district rating of 7 out of 10. Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of wildlife, including bald eagles and grizzly bears.
3. Juneau: The Capital City
Juneau, Alaska’s capital, is the fourth most incredible place to live. This city offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including glacier hiking and boat trips to Tracy Arm Fjord.
With a median property price of $330,000 and an average household income of $94,625, Juneau is an attractive option for those looking for a balance of affordability and quality of life.
The city’s rich history and cultural attractions make it a great place to explore and settle down.
4. Kodiak: The Commercial Fishing Hub
Kodiak, a fishery and trading port, has a rich history dating back to the Russian immigrants. The city, with a population of 6,022, is known for its commercial fishing industry, which contributes significantly to the local economy.
With a median household income of $73,310 and a median property value of $255,000, Kodiak offers a comfortable lifestyle.
The town’s recreational activities, including visits to Fort Abercrombie State Historic Park, make it an attractive option for those who love the outdoors.
5. Gnome: The Finish Line of the Iditarod
Gnome, with a population of 3,850, is known for being the finish line of the Iditarod sled dog race. This small town offers a unique blend of small-town charm and outdoor activities.
With a median household income of $84,574 and a median property value of $282,400, Gnome is an attractive option for those looking for a comfortable lifestyle.
The town’s low unemployment rate of 6.1% and short commute time of seven minutes make it an ideal location for those who value convenience.
6. Homer: The Halibut Fishing Capital
Homer, also known as the halibut fishing capital of the world, is a community primarily located on the southwest Kenai Peninsula.
This charming town offers a range of recreational activities, including shopping on the Homer Spit and spending a day outdoors at Kachemak Bay State Park. With a median property value of $282,400, Homer is an attractive option for those looking for a comfortable lifestyle.
The town’s low unemployment rate of 3.6% and high median household income of $94,625 make it an ideal location for those who value financial stability.
7. Cordova: The Oldest City
Cordova, the oldest city in Alaska at 38 years old, offers a unique blend of history and modern amenities.
With a median property price of $330,000 and an average household income of $94,625, Cordova is an attractive option for those looking for a balance of affordability and quality of life.
The town’s outdoor activities, including glacier hiking and boat trips to Tracy Arm Fjord, make it an ideal location for nature lovers.
8. Anchorage: The Bustling City
Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, offers a wide range of amenities and activities.
With a median property value of $282,400 and an average household income of $94,625, Anchorage is an attractive option for those looking for a balance of affordability and quality of life.
The city’s cultural attractions, including the Anchorage Museum, make it a great place to explore and settle down.
9. Fairbanks: The Northern City
Fairbanks, located in the interior of Alaska, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities.
With a median property value of $282,400 and an average household income of $94,625, Fairbanks is an attractive option for those looking for a comfortable lifestyle.
The town’s outdoor activities, including dog sledding and hiking, make it an ideal location for nature lovers.
10. Seward: The Coastal Town
Seward, a coastal town located on the Kenai Peninsula, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and outdoor activities.
With a median property value of $282,400 and an average household income of $94,625, Seward is an attractive option for those looking for a comfortable lifestyle.
The town’s recreational activities, including hiking and kayaking, make it an ideal location for nature lovers.In conclusion, Alaska offers a wide range of incredible places to live, each with its own unique charm and advantages.
Whether you’re looking for affordability, outdoor activities, or cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone in the Last Frontier.
So, if you’re considering moving, be sure to explore these top 10 best small cities in alaska for you.
