Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska with nearly half the population and a unique blend of urban and wild amenities. You'll find shopping, entertainment, great family activities and more than 600 restaurants.
What about the weather? Summers are the envy of anywhere: Up to 22 hours of functional daylight in June, and mild temperatures that top out in the low to mid-70s. Winters are milder than you might expect because Anchorage is next to the water and flanked by protective mountains. Winter also is the season for the northern lights that dance overhead on clear nights.
The economy, driven by natural resources and the city's location as a transportation hub, is exceptionally stable. Taxes are low - there's no state income tax, and no sales tax in Anchorage - and while the cost of living is about the same or a bit higher than the West Coast, wages are generally higher. There's a variety of housing in Anchorage, ranging from apartments to condos to single- and multi-family housing.
There are plenty of resources both in and out of the military to help you get here. Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson provides Relocation Assistance. Outside military channels, there are plenty of answers to your questions on Anchorage. Other informational websites include:
- Anchorage Chamber of Commerce
- Anchorage Daily News
- Anchorage School District
- State of Alaska Web Site
- Municipality of Anchorage
- Chugiak-Eagle River Chamber of Commerce
- Anchorage Economic Development Corporation
- Alaska State Job Center Network
