Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson
Joint Base Anchorage, Alaska
Top neighborhoods near Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson
Government Hill / Fairview
Established Anchorage neighborhoods adjacent to the base offering quick commutes and a mix of mid-century homes and newer infill construction. Fairview has improved significantly in recent years and provides affordable access to downtown.
5–10 min to main gate
Eagle River
A scenic bedroom community 12 miles northeast of Anchorage in the Chugach Mountains foothills, Eagle River is a top choice for military families seeking a quieter, outdoor-oriented lifestyle with good schools and more space.
20–30 min to main gate via Glenn Hwy
Wasilla / Palmer (Mat-Su Valley)
The Matanuska-Susitna Valley offers the most affordable housing in the Anchorage metro and an abundance of wilderness access, at the cost of a longer commute. A popular choice for families prioritizing space, privacy, and Alaska lifestyle.
45–60 min to main gate via Glenn Hwy
Anchorage School District / Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District
The Anchorage School District is the largest in Alaska and offers a diverse range of programs. Eagle River schools within ASD are generally well-regarded. The Mat-Su Borough School District serves Wasilla and Palmer and has a strong reputation for academics and athletics.
What families should know
- Service High School in Anchorage has an outstanding AP program and competitive athletics
- Eagle River High School consistently earns high marks and has a strong community feel
- Mat-Su Valley schools benefit from the borough's investment in educational facilities and technology
Life around Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson
Chugach State Park
Nearly 500,000 acres of wilderness bordering Anchorage's eastern edge, with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, glaciers, wildlife viewing (moose, bears, Dall sheep), and backcountry skiing.
Snow City Cafe
Anchorage's most popular brunch spot in downtown, featuring creative egg dishes, housemade pastries, and Alaskan-themed menu items with a notorious wait on weekends—worth every minute.
Anchorage Museum
A world-class museum in downtown Anchorage exploring Alaska's art, history, science, and indigenous cultures, with a rotating exhibit program that rivals any Lower 48 institution.
Alyeska Resort (Girdwood)
Alaska's premier ski resort, 40 minutes from base in the Chugach Mountains, offers 2,500 vertical feet of skiing and snowboarding, summer tram rides, and the iconic Bake Shop restaurant at the base.
5th Avenue Mall (Anchorage)
The primary indoor shopping mall in Anchorage with major national retailers, a food court, and an anchor Nordstrom—the main shopping destination for the entire south-central Alaska region.
Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse
Anchorage's most famous bar and live music venue, with over 50 draft beers, a legendary halibut taco, and live local music nightly. A mandatory stop for anyone stationed in Alaska.
Buying or renting near Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson
Home Prices
$360,000–$520,000
Typical Rent
$1,600–$2,400/mo
Anchorage's housing market is stable and moderately priced given Alaska's economic conditions. BAH reflects the high cost of goods and services in the state. Eagle River is the sweet spot for military families—good schools, reasonable prices, and manageable commutes. The Mat-Su Valley offers significantly lower prices for those willing to drive.
Popular neighborhoods: Eagle River, South Anchorage, Wasilla
Orders to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson?
Get pre-approved before you arrive. A VA loan specialist can have your numbers ready this week.
Call (719) 259-2246