Alaska’s cost of living is 31% above the national average. Despite this, with a low 4.4% unemployment rate, it is a great place to move to in 2024. Besides natural beauty, it is also renowned as the 4th largest oil producer in the U.S.
From towering mountains to expansive glaciers, Alaska is a paradise for nature lovers. It’s no wonder that 759 people moved to the Last Frontier State in July 2024 alone. So don’t delay – browse through thousands of property listings across the best places to live in Alaska and find your Alaskan dream home today!
Best Places to Live in Alaska in 2024
Here’s our ranking of the top areas in Alaska to live in. We’ve considered the community well-being score, median home price, monthly expenses, and the population of the cities.
| # | City | Population | Median Home Price | Monthly Expenses | Community Well-Being Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Anchorage | 286,075 | $415,500 | $9,851 | 63/100 |
| 2. | Fairbanks | 31,856 | $275,000 | $10,038 | 54/100 |
| 3. | Juneau | 31,555 | $375,000 | $10,011 | 66/100 |
| 4. | Wasilla | 9,945 | $419,000 | $9,316 | 49/100 |
| 5. | Sitka | 8,326 | $495,949 | $9,385 | 56/100 |
| 6. | Badger | 19,182 | $367,400 | $10,038 | 54/100 |
| 7. | Homer | 6,040 | $436,000 | $9,203 | 53/100 |
| 8 | Ketchikan | 8,079 | $397,712 | $9,352 | 56/100 |
| 9 | Palmer | 6,378 | $340,000 | $9,316 | 49/100 |
| 10 | Kodiak | 5,354 | $195,000 | $10,379 | 56/100 |
10 Best Places to Live in Alaska
Here’s our list of the top 10 cities that offer comfortable living options in the Last Frontier State:
#1 Anchorage
- Median Home Price: $415,500[2]
- Median Household Income in Anchorage: $95,731[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 63/100[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Anchorage, AK: 99503 | 99501 | 99504
Known as the ‘Gateway to Alaska’, Anchorage is the largest city in the state. It is located near the Chugach State Park and the Cook Inlet in southern Alaska. In addition to its urban amenities, the utility costs in the city are 27% lower than the state average.
However, Anchorage has a diverse and expanding economy. Major employers include Providence Health & Services, Alaska Airlines, and the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. The Anchorage Museum and Alaska Native Heritage Center in the city showcase the state’s history and indigenous culture.
» Anchorage Homes For Sale: Browse through thousands of home listings in Anchorage.
#2 Fairbanks
- Median Home Price: $275,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Fairbanks: $69,914[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 54/100[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Fairbanks, AK: 99709 | 99712 | 99701
The median home price in Fairbanks is 14% lower than the state average, with the unemployment rate at 3.5% and declining consistently. The city’s economy is backed by major employers, like the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fort Wainwright Army Base, and the Fairbanks Memorial Hospital.
Fairbanks retains a rich heritage from the early 20th-century gold rush era. Attractions like the Gold Dredge 8 and Pioneer Park make it fairly popular amongst visitors.
» Fairbanks Homes For Sale: View the best property in this Golden Heart City.
#3 Juneau
- Median Home Price: $375,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Juneau: $95,711[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 66/100[6]
- 2 Popular Zip Codes in Juneau, AK: 99801 | 99501
Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, is located in the southeastern part of the state. It offers a great blend of an urban lifestyle and outdoor adventures. Home to the Mendenhall Glacier and Tongass National Forest, its whale-watching tours also make it popular amongst tourists.
The economy thrives on tourism, fishing, and government jobs. Top employers include the Bartlett Regional Hospital and the University of Alaska Southeast.
» Juneau Homes For Sale: Explore thousands of properties in the capital city of Alaska.
#4 Wasilla
- Median Home Price: $419,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Wasilla: $69,534[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 49/100[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Wasilla, AK: 99654 | 99623 | 99645
Wasilla is situated in Matanuska-Susitna Borough and ranks as the 8th largest city in Alaska. Its housing costs are 6% above the national average. The city’s appeal is further boosted by well-known businesses like Walmart, Home Depot, and Target. This makes the city ideal for young professionals.
Besides a thriving economy, the city is also famous for its picturesque location. It includes the nearby Chugach Mountains and the Knik River. Wasilla combines outdoor beauty, recreation, and community spirit with modern amenities.
» Wasilla Homes For Sale: Find your dream home in Wasilla.
#5 Sitka
- Median Home Price: $495,949[2]
- Median Household Income in Sitka: $95,261[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 56/100[6]
- Popular Zip Code in Sitka, AK: 99835
Sitka is a beautiful coastal city located on Baranof Island and part of the Tongass National Forest. It is home to some of the most prestigious universities. These include the University of Alaska Southeast, Sitka Campus, and Sheldon Jackson College.
Moreover, the city is 73% safer than the rest of the country. The average annual salary in Sitka is $72,921, also higher than the national average of $65,729. These factors Sitka one of the best places to live in Alaska for families.
» Sitka Homes For Sale: Find your ideal home in Sitka.
#6 Badger
- Median Home Price: $367,400[2]
- Median Household Income in Badger: $87,169[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 54/100[6]
- Popular Zip Code in Badger, AK: 99705
Badger is a suburb in Fairbanks. It is near Fairbanks’ educational institutions, including the University of Alaska. This connection enhances the community’s appeal to families that prioritize education.
The healthcare system in Badger is also exceptionally good, where 90.1% of the population has health coverage. Besides, the city’s beauty and the surrounding landscape makes it great for outdoor activities year-round. Hiking, fishing, and snowmobiling are popular among locals.
» Badger Homes For Sale: Find a home in one of the best places to move to in Alaska.
#7 Homer
- Median Home Price: $436,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Homer: $69,757[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 53/100[6]
- Popular Zip Code in Homer, AK: 99603
Homer is located on the southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula in South Central Alaska. It is 8% more affordable to live in than in other Alaskan cities.
The ‘Halibut Fishing Capital of the World’ is known for its picturesque beauty. Popular attractions in the city are the Pratt Museum, Homer Spit Trail, and the Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center. It also boasts great healthcare with renowned hospitals like the South Peninsula Hospital, and many other clinics.
» Homer Homes For Sale: Find your dream home in Homer.
#8 Ketchikan
- Median Home Price: $397,712[2]
- Median Household Income in Ketchikan: $73,512[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 56/100[6]
- Popular Zip Code in Ketchikan, AK: 99901
Ketchikan is renowned globally as the ‘Salmon Capital of the World’. It offers a cost of living 6.5% lower compared to other Alaskan cities. The city has a strong economy driven by fishing, tourism, and healthcare.
Ketchikan is a scenic spot surrounded by the Tongass National Forest, which offers access to several outdoor activities. The city also has a rich culture, with popular attractions like Totem Heritage Center and the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.
» Ketchikan Homes For Sale: Explore the best properties in Ketchikan.
#9 Palmer
- Median Home Price: $340,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Palmer: $68,929[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 49/100[6]
- 2 Popular Zip Codes in Palmer, AK: 99645 | 99654
Palmer is located in the Matanuska Valley and is known for its agricultural heritage. The city is also known for its scenic landscape, being nestled between the mountains and rivers around it.
Palmer hosts the Alaska State Fair, which attracts visitors from all over the state. It has a tight-knit community and a thriving job market, growing at a strong 16.9%. Palmer is perfect for those who enjoy a rural lifestyle with access to modern amenities.
» Palmer Homes For Sale Discover your dream home in Palmer.
#10 Kodiak
- Median Home Price: $195,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Kodiak: $76,765[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 56/100[6]
- Popular Zip Code in Kodiak, AK: 99615
Kodiak, located on Kodiak Island, is well-known for its crab fishing industry. Living costs in the city are 22% higher than the national average. Despite high costs, the quality of life is excellent due to its scenic location and local economy.
Kodiak offers a strong sense of community and access to outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. It also has a quality education system and healthcare facilities, which makes it a great place to live in Alaska for families.
» Kodiak Homes For Sale: Find your perfect home in Kodiak.
Best Places to Live in Alaska Based on Demographics
We have researched the best places for single families, young professionals, and retirees. The cities are ranked on parameters like education, employment opportunities, and healthcare facilities.
| Demographic | #1 | #2 | #3 |
| Single Families | Ketchikan | Sitka | Kodiak |
| Young Professionals | Anchorage | Fairbanks | Nome |
| Retirees | Kenai | Soldotna | Palmer |
Is Alaska the Right Place for Your Next Move?
Alaska is one of the best places to live in the US due to its tax benefits and cozy cold weather. The city has a booming job market and opportunities for young adults. Apart from this, it has an affordable healthcare system and excellent educational institutions.
With the current low mortgage rate of 6.25%, there is an increase in the home-buying demand in Alaska. So, to make your offer stand out from the competition, you must get a mortgage pre-approval.
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Research Methodology for Best Places to Live in Alaska
We considered different regions to rank the best places in Alaska. Comparison criteria for the best cities to live in Alaska and the information sources are as follows:
- Population: Alaska Demographics Report [1]
- Median Home Price: Redfin[2]
- Median Household Income: United States Census Bureau[3]
- Monthly Expenses: Economic Policy Institute[4]
- Community Well-Being Score: Community Well-Being Index by Sharecare[5]
Additionally, we have listed the good cities to live in Alaska for varying demographics. These include the best places to live for families, young adults, and retirees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alaska a good place to live?
Yes, the Last Frontier State is a good place to live. From towering mountains to expansive glaciers, Alaska has it all. Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau are some of the best places in Alaska.
Which is best city to live in Alaska?
The best city to live in Alaska is Anchorage. It is the most populous city in the state and offers a wide range of job opportunities, entertainment options, and outdoor activities.
What are the nicest parts of Alaska to live in?
The best parts to live in Alaska are the Southcentral and Southeast regions. They include cities like Juneau, Sitka, Anchorage, and more.
What is the nicest but cheapest place to live in Alaska?
Fairbanks is one of the nicest and cheapest places to live in Alaska. It has a cost of living 10.7% below the state average.
