Top neighborhoods near Eielson AFB
North Pole
A quirky, named community east of Fairbanks with affordable housing, a strong military presence, and the charm of Christmas-themed streets year-round.
20–25 min to main gate
Fairbanks (College area)
Home to University of Alaska Fairbanks with a more cosmopolitan atmosphere, cultural events, and the best dining in the Interior. A longer commute but the richest amenities.
30–35 min to main gate
Moose Creek / Two Rivers
Rural homestead-style living in the hills east of Fairbanks with larger parcels, dog mushing culture, and a true Alaskan backcountry lifestyle.
25–35 min to main gate
Fairbanks North Star Borough School District
FNSBSD serves the entire Fairbanks area including Eielson and North Pole. The district performs well by Alaska standards. North Pole High School serves the area closest to Eielson.
What families should know
- North Pole High School offers strong vocational and technical programs
- University of Alaska Fairbanks provides concurrent enrollment opportunities for high schoolers
- District-wide aurora science and environmental education curriculum unique to Alaska
Life around Eielson AFB
Northern Alaska Tour Company Aurora Tours
World-class aurora borealis viewing tours north of Fairbanks — a bucket-list experience unique to an Eielson assignment.
Denali National Park
North America's highest peak and a spectacular wilderness park accessible via a 4-hour drive south on the Parks Highway — stunning in every season.
Pioneer Park
A free Fairbanks heritage theme park with historic gold rush buildings, a sternwheeler, museums, and summer cultural events.
The Pump House Restaurant
Fairbanks' most storied restaurant in a converted gold dredge pump house on the Chena River serving Alaskan seafood, game, and craft cocktails.
Chena Hot Springs Resort
Natural geothermal hot springs 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks with year-round soaking, an ice museum, dog mushing, and aurora viewing.
Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
A city wildlife refuge where thousands of sandhill cranes and other migratory birds stop in spring and fall, right in the heart of Fairbanks.
Buying or renting near Eielson AFB
Home Prices
$220,000–$380,000
Typical Rent
$1,200–$1,800/mo
Fairbanks/North Pole housing is affordable by most standards, though heating costs are substantial. Most base families budget heavily for utilities. BAH includes a cost-of-living adjustment for Alaska.
Popular neighborhoods: North Pole, Fairbanks College area
Orders to Eielson AFB?
Get pre-approved before you arrive. A VA loan specialist can have your numbers ready this week.
Call (719) 259-2246