Moving to Alaska? Should You Live in Anchorage, Eagle River, or the Mat-Su Valley?

If you’re relocating to Alaska from out of state — whether for a PCS, a new job opportunity, or a lifestyle change — one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is where to live.

For most inbound buyers (especially military families), the conversation usually comes down to three main areas:

• Anchorage

• Eagle River

• The Mat-Su Valley (Wasilla & Palmer)

Each offers a different daily experience — commute times, lot sizes, community feel, schools, and long-term investment potential.

Here’s how to decide which one fits you best.

Anchorage: Convenience, Diversity & Higher Education Access

Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city and economic hub. If you’re coming from the Lower 48 and want something that feels familiar — shopping centers, hospitals, restaurants, gyms, and structured neighborhoods — Anchorage provides that stability.

Why people choose Anchorage:

• Access to major medical facilities

Schools & Universities in Anchorage

Anchorage is home to one of the most diverse school districts in the nation. The Anchorage School District offers a wide range of programs including language immersion, STEM tracks, charter schools, and specialized academies.

Anchorage is also home to the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA), one of the major universities in the Pacific Northwest region. For families considering long-term relocation, higher education access can be a significant factor.

For military families PCSing to JBER, Anchorage provides proximity to base while maintaining strong educational options.

Considerations:

• Smaller lot sizes

• Higher density neighborhoods

• Less privacy compared to the Valley

If you prioritize convenience, diversity, and access to education, Anchorage is often the most comprehensive choice.

Eagle River: Community-Focused with Strong School Reputation

Located about 15–20 minutes north of Anchorage, Eagle River blends a smaller-town feel with close access to JBER and Anchorage.

It’s one of the most popular areas for inbound military families.

Why people choose Eagle River:

• Strong military presence

• Mountain views

• Residential subdivisions

• Manageable commute to JBER

• Quiet, community-centered environment

Schools in Eagle River

Eagle River schools are part of the Anchorage School District but are often known for strong community involvement and consistent performance. Many families relocating to Alaska specifically ask about Eagle River due to its reputation for being family-oriented.

Considerations:

• Limited commercial development

If you want mountain scenery, neighborhood living, and strong community involvement, Eagle River is a top contender.

Mat-Su Valley (Wasilla & Palmer): Space, Growth & Strong Optional Programs

The Mat-Su Valley includes Wasilla and Palmer and sits about 45–60 minutes from Anchorage (depending on traffic and weather).

For buyers wanting more land and privacy, the Valley often feels like “more Alaska.”

Why people choose the Valley:

• Larger lots (½ acre to multiple acres common)

• New construction opportunities

• Lower price per square foot in many areas

• Privacy and mountain views

• Space for RVs, boats, and shops

Schools in the Mat-Su Borough

The Mat-Su Borough School District is known for its strong optional and charter school programs. Many families are drawn to the Valley specifically because of these educational tracks and specialized learning environments.

Considerations:

• Longer commute to Anchorage or JBER

• Heavier snowfall

• Septic and well systems are common

For families who prioritize space and optional educational programs — and don’t mind a longer commute — the Mat-Su Valley can be an excellent fit.

What Matters Most to You?

When relocating from out of state, ask yourself:

• How important is commute time?

• Do I want land or neighborhood living?

• Are schools a top priority?

• Do I want access to a university nearby?

• Am I planning to rent this property out in the future?

There isn’t a “best” area — only the best area for your lifestyle, family needs, and long-term goals.

The Bottom Line

Choose Anchorage if you want convenience, diversity, and university access.

Choose Eagle River if you want community, mountain views, and proximity to JBER.

Choose the Mat-Su Valley if you want space, optional school programs, and long-term growth potential.

Relocating to Alaska? Let’s Break It Down Together.

At Top Homes Alaska, we help out-of-state buyers and military families compare Anchorage, Eagle River, and the Mat-Su Valley based on commute, budget, schools, long-term goals, and resale strategy.

Before signing a lease or submitting an offer, it’s important to understand how your daily life will look in each area — especially in winter.

Reach out to Top Homes Alaska for:

• Area breakdowns

• School insight

• Commute comparisons

• Virtual tours

Alaska living looks different depending on where you land. Let’s make sure you land in the right place.