Alaska is a beautiful state. It’s known as the Last Frontier and is home to incredible sites like the largest glacier in North America, Bering Glacier. It has several different landscapes, from tundra to forest. Its snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes, and animal life are a sight to see. If you have been thinking about retirement and places you should go, Alaska should be on your list. Imagine waking up to see the aurora borealis lighting up the sky. If this sounds like a fit for you, check out the best retirement communities in Alaska.
Anchorage
Anchorage is the largest city in the state. It has stunning views of the pristine Alaskan landscape, more than 200,000 inhabitants, and lots of places to travel nearby. There are also many outdoor activities to take part in and long days of 20 hours of sunlight in the summertime. It’s an ideal place for people who want a city life with a hint of outdoor recreation.
Matanuska-Susitna Valley
Matanuska-Susitna Valley is 40 miles North of Anchorage. Its home to nearly 100,000 inhabitants and is a great place to retire on a budget. If you like hiking, cross-country skiing, fishing, and hunting, Matanuska-Susitna Valley is for you. The town is also in close proximity to shopping. If you want socialization, the town has six senior centers, is home to several great fine dining restaurants, and you can even go on dog sledding adventures.
Chugiak-Eagle River
If you’re looking for a small-town feel Eagle River may be a good fit for you. The town is home to 30,000 inhabitants and is just 10 miles north of Anchorage. It is also close range to the military base, Elmendorf-Richardson, which is attractive if you are on active duty or a retired military family. Aside from the base, you can participate in lots of outdoor recreational activities like hiking and biking at Chugach State Park.
Homer-Seldovia
If you’re looking for a change of scenery, Homer is perfect. There are about 5,300 inhabitants that live in Homer year-round. The town is a large fishing community and home to retirees and artists. With a large art community, Homer hosts many arts, cultural, and music events throughout the year. In addition to the arts, there is a booming seafood industry which means you can feast on the freshest local catches.
Bethal
If you are a wildlife lover, Bethel may be one of the best retirement communities in Alaska for you. The town is home to more than 6,000 residents. It is situated on the Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refugee. You can take up activities like bird watching, fishing, sled racing, or interacting with natural wildlife in the area on wildlife viewing trips. If you’re interested in the arts, you can visit the Yupiit Piciryarait Cultural Center and Museum or partake in the Cama-i Dance Festival. For more outdoor adventures, you can view the glaciers or socialize at Pinky’s park after dark.
Fairbanks
Fairbanks is another popular city in Alaska. Its home to 31,000 inhabitants and is the second-largest metropolitan area in the state. It boasts several outdoor activities like watching the Aurora Borealis, bird watching at the bird sanctuary, curling, ice fishing, and even riding snowmobiles. In terms of other leisure activities, Fairbanks has several golf courses and social clubs to keep you entertained.
Alaska is home to pretty scenery, lots of outdoor recreation, and even a center for cultural arts. If you’re looking to retire here, you have a lot of great choices to pick from. Whether it’s big city life or small-town feels, there is a city in Alaska to meet your needs. For more information on the best retirement communities in Alaska, check out the posted video.
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Shatel Huntley has a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Georgia State University. In her spare time, she works with special needs adults and travels the world. Her interests include traveling to off-the-beaten-path destinations, shopping, couponing, and saving.
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