12 Largest Cities in Alaska [2025]

Alaska is a land of extremes in terms of size, weather, and personality. It’s where you’ll find jaw-dropping mountain ranges, midnight sun, and some of the most ruggedly independent communities in the U.S. But beyond the glaciers and grizzly bears, the largest cities in Alaska offer a mix of culture, history, and modern amenities.

From Anchorage’s bustling downtown and Fairbanks’ northern charm to the tight-knit fishing villages and coastal ports, these cities are as diverse as the landscape they populate.

Ready to explore the wide-ranging personality of the Last Frontier? Let’s dive into the 12 largest Alaska cities by population and see what makes each one special.

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Transit scores come from Walk Score, and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census Bureau website.

Largest Cities in Alaska

Populations of the 12 Largest Cities in Alaska

1. Anchorage

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,227
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,676
• Population: 291,247
• Median household income: $98,152
• Walk score: 31
• Transit score: 22
• Bike score: 52
• Map of Anchorage

Anchorage isn’t just the biggest city in Alaska. It’s the state’s beating heart. Tucked between towering mountains and the Pacific Ocean, it’s a place where moose wander into neighborhoods and locals hit the trails on skis straight from their backyards.

Despite its size, Anchorage still feels like a small town with big perks. You’ll find a thriving arts scene, solid infrastructure, and, most of all, unparalleled access to nature. Within 20 minutes, you can go from downtown to alpine hiking trails or reel in some salmon from Ship Creek right in the city center.

Beyond its postcard views, Anchorage is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States, shaped by Alaska Native cultures and immigrant communities from around the world. Winters are long and dark, sure, but residents embrace the season with cross-country skiing, fat biking, and, of course, chasing the aurora borealis.

Summers, on the other hand, feel endless, with late-night sunsets lighting up the Chugach Range. For those who crave wild beauty, a strong community, and a bit of frontier grit, Anchorage just might be the best city you’ve never considered.

Check out our listings in Anchorage

2. Fairbanks

• Starting rent for an apartment in Fairbanks: $1,350
• Population: 32,515
• Median household income: $72,077
• Walk score: 32
• Transit score: 24
• Bike score: 56
• Map of Fairbanks

Fairbanks is the second-largest city in Alaska and one of the best places in the world to catch the northern lights, with over 200 nights of aurora borealis viewing potential each year.

But winters here are no joke. January highs hover around zero degrees Fahrenheit, but locals are equipped with block heaters, snow boots, and a fearless sense of humor. Come summer, Fairbanks swings in the other direction with 20-plus hours of daylight, making it prime time for fishing, hiking, and soaking in the nearby Chena Hot Springs.

Culturally, Fairbanks punches above its weight. The city hosts the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics each July, celebrates its gold rush roots with the Golden Days Festival, and supports a prominent Indigenous arts scene year-round.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks anchors the community with educational opportunities and a steady stream of cultural events. And if small-town vibes with frontier spirit appeal to you, neighborhoods like Ester and North Pole (yes, really) offer that and then some. Life in Fairbanks isn’t easy, but for those who crave space, adventure, and authenticity, it’s a city that rewards the bold.

Check out our listings in Fairbanks

3. Juneau

• Starting rent for an apartment in Juneau: $2,450
• Population: 32,255
• Median household income: $100,513
• Walk score: 21
• Transit score: 27
• Bike score: 35
• Map of Juneau

Juneau, Alaska’s remote capital, is as breathtaking as it is unique. Tucked within the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in North America, this coastal city offers dramatic scenery around every bend, from glaciers and waterfalls to misty mountain peaks.

Residents wake up to views of the Mendenhall Glacier, hike through dense forest trails, and fish for salmon right off the docks. And while the landscape looks like something out of a painting, it comes with its own trade-off: nearly 250 days of rain or snow each year. Summers rarely top 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and winters hover just around freezing, which is mild by Alaska standards but damp and persistent.

Despite its small population of just over 32,000, Juneau spans a staggering 2,700 square miles, providing locals with ample space, whether they reside in a quiet cabin north of Auke Bay or a cozy apartment downtown. The city has a strong Alaska Native presence, with Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian nations that help shape its cultural identity.

People here in Juneau value their independence and outdoor lifestyles, but they’re also known for being warm and welcoming—just be sure to invest in a bear-resistant trash can.

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4. Knik-Fairview

• Starting rent for an apartment in Knik-Fairview: $1,550
• Population: 19,297
• Median household income: $95,000
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Knik-Fairview

Knik-Fairview, often simply called Knik, is one of the biggest towns in Alaska, boasting one of the fastest-growing communities. Nestled in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley just southwest of Wasilla, this sprawling census-designated area offers spacious wooded lots where you can sip coffee in silence, with snow-capped mountains rising in the distance.

Then drive 15 minutes to grab groceries or hit the gym. Anchorage is only about an hour away by car, making Knik a popular home base for commuters who want space without sacrificing access to the city.

Life in Knik-Fairview leans into the outdoors. Residents spend weekends fishing in the Knik River, hiking the Crevasse-Moraine Trails, or heading up to Hatcher Pass for a day in the alpine stretch. In the winter, dog mushing and snowmachining are a must. And when summer rolls around, Palmer’s famous farms and farmers markets are a short drive away. For families, the appeal lies in affordable housing, a slower pace of life, and the kind of privacy that’s hard to come by in more urban areas. It’s Alaska living without total isolation.

Check out our listings in Knik-Fairview

5. Badger

• Starting rent for an apartment in Badger: $1,900
• Population: 19,031
• Median household income: $98,042
• Walk score: 3
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 30
• Map of Badger

Badger, Alaska, sits quietly on the edge of Fairbanks, offering peaceful, tree-lined neighborhoods with easy access to the city. With a population of just over 19,000, this suburb has a relaxed, rural feel, perfect for those who want a bit more space without sacrificing access to jobs, schools, and modern amenities.

You’ll find larger homes on generous lots, plenty of elbow room, and a warm, welcoming community. This big city in Alaska is especially popular with military families thanks to its prime location between Fort Wainwright and Eielson Air Force Base, with both posts less than 15 miles away.

Snowmobiling is a local favorite during the long, cold winters, and trips to nearby Fairbanks or the famously festive North Pole are easy weekend outings. The area also has plenty of access to parks, trails, and enough untouched wilderness to satisfy any nature lover. While winter temperatures often dip below freezing, the beauty of Alaska’s interior—from quiet forests to snow-covered fields—is always right outside your door.

Check out our listings in Badger

6. College

• Starting rent for an apartment in College: $1,700
• Population: 11,332
• Median household income: $76,831
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of College

College, Alaska, might be anchored by the University of Alaska Fairbanks, but it’s far more than your typical college town. Located just west of Fairbanks, College blends student energy with small-town charm and some serious natural beauty.

Sure, you’ve got the university’s world-class research facilities and the impressive University of Alaska Museum of the North, but locals also flock to the Tanana Valley Farmers Market in the summer months for fresh produce and handmade goods. And when winter hits? The World Ice Art Championships turn the town into a glowing gallery of frozen sculptures.

In terms of dining and culture, College Town Pizzeria is a community favorite, and the University of Alaska Georgeson Botanical Garden provides a lush escape during the short but vibrant summer. Add in hiking, cross-country skiing, and the ever-present views of Alaska’s vast wilderness, and you’ve got a place that balances education, recreation, and rugged scenery.

Check out our listings in College

7. North Lakes

• Starting rent for an apartment in North Lakes: $1,150
• Population: 9,450
• Median household income: $102,785
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of North Lakes

North Lakes is one of the many big cities in Alaska that offers a unique blend of quiet, rural living and easy access to city life. Just over 40 miles from Anchorage, it's a popular spot for commuters who want more space without Anchorage prices.

The area is renowned for its spacious, wooded lots and tranquil neighborhoods, making it a top choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District, including Larson Elementary and Colony High, consistently scores above average, with strong extracurricular activities such as Science Olympiad and college preparation resources.

When it comes to weekend activities, many locals spend their free time fishing, kayaking, or ice skating across the area’s many lakes. Wasilla Lake and Kings Lake are local favorites. The Alaska State Fairgrounds are just a short drive away, too, perfect for a summer staycation. For errands or a bite to eat, residents head to the nearby Palmer-Wasilla Highway area for everything from groceries at Fred Meyer to tacos at Tacos Cancun Mexican Grill or a pint at one of Wasilla’s microbreweries.

Check out our listings in North Lakes.*

8. Meadow Lakes

• Starting rent for an apartment in Meadow Lakes: $900
• Population: 9,197
• Median household income: $81,250
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Meadow Lakes

Last on our list of large cities in Alaska is Meadow Lakes, a quiet, nature-forward community in the heart of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. It’s just a short drive from Wasilla and about 50 miles north of Anchorage, two much larger Alaskan cities.

With easy access to the Parks Highway, Meadow Lake is a popular home base for commuters who want more space and natural beauty without giving up proximity to city jobs and amenities. Most homes in this area are surrounded by forests, lakes, and snow-capped peaks, making them ideal for anyone who enjoys fishing, hiking, or skiing.

The town itself is a blend of working professionals, families, and retirees, all drawn by affordable housing, scenic views, and a low-key lifestyle. With industries like construction, healthcare, and retail supported by small businesses and solid schools, it’s easy to see why Meadow Lakes continues to grow without losing its peaceful, off-the-beaten-path charm.

*Check out our listings in Meadow Lakes

9. Wasilla

• Starting rent for an apartment in Wasilla: $1,300
• Population: 9,054
• Median household income: $70,756
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Wasilla

Tucked between the Talkeetna Mountains and two glacially carved river valleys, this Mat-Su Borough hub offers stunning scenery. Anchorage is less than 45 miles southwest along the highway, making Wasilla a favorite for commuters who want mountain views and more space without cutting ties to city jobs or amenities.

The local economy is booming, with a focus on construction, steel fabrication, and distribution jobs. With the development of Port MacKenzie and a major rail extension in the works, Wasilla’s role as a logistics and industrial center is only growing.

Residents can fish in Lucille Lake by morning and grab groceries at Fred Meyer by afternoon, then end the day watching the sunset over Wasilla Lake. Throw in year-round recreation, from summer mountain biking to winter dog sledding at the Iditarod headquarters, and it’s no wonder more Alaskans are choosing to call Wasilla home.

Check out our listings in Wasilla

10. Tanaina

• Starting rent for an apartment in Tanaina: $1,500
• Population: 8,817
• Median household income: $95,587
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Tanaina

Tanaina is a quiet, family-friendly enclave just north of Wasilla, known for its scenic beauty and strong community. Backed by the Chugach Mountains and centered around Memory Lake, this neighborhood offers postcard-perfect views and plenty of ways to enjoy them, whether you're fishing for Arctic char, ice skating in the winter, or just walking the lakeside dock under a sky full of evergreens.

Tanaina also ranks among Alaska’s top suburbs for families and schools, with nearby public schools like Teeland Middle and Wasilla High consistently earning high marks.

You can tee off at Sleepy Hollow Golf Course, catch a bite at the Headless Horseman café, or hit up a local event hosted by the Tanaina Community Council. When you need city essentials, Wasilla is just a few miles down the highway.

Check out our listings in Tanaina

11. Kalifornsky

• Starting rent for an apartment in Kalifornsky: N/A
• Population: 8,487
• Median household income: $91,081
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Kalifornsky

Kalifornsky is a laid-back community nestled on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula, known for its roomy lots, wooded privacy, and proximity to both Soldotna and Kenai.

Many Kalifornsky homes sit on an acre or more, offering a spacious, rural vibe that’s hard to find in more densely packed cities nearby. Nestled in the quiet natural beauty of the peninsula while still offering quick access to shopping, healthcare, and schools, Kalifornsky is a favorite for families and retirees alike.

Locals can enjoy scenic views of the Cook Inlet to the west and spend their free time immersed in the outdoors. Plus, with Sterling Highway just minutes away, getting around is easy.

Check out our listings in Kalifornsky

12. Sitka

• Starting rent for an apartment in Sitka: N/A
• Population: 8,458
• Median household income: $101,207
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Sitka

Tucked between forested mountains and the open Pacific, Sitka is a remote island city that feels like a world unto itself. With just 14 miles of road, no bridge to the mainland, and access only by plane or boat, life here is defined by its seclusion. But that’s exactly the appeal. The community of approximately 8,500 residents enjoys a slow-paced lifestyle, with downtown, schools, and healthcare facilities all conveniently located nearby. Sitka's economy is anchored by commercial fishing, but it's also home to major employers like the Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium and the Sitka School District.

Despite the near-constant drizzle (rain falls roughly 300 days a year), locals embrace the wild surroundings. Encircled by the Tongass National Forest and situated on Baranof Island, Sitka offers unbeatable access to fishing, kayaking, hiking, and even skiing.

Its cultural roots run deep, with a strong Tlingit heritage and remnants of Russian colonial history, including the site where Alaska was officially transferred to the U.S. in 1867. Sitka may be hard to reach, but for those who make it there, it's one of the Alaskan cities that sticks with you.

Check out our listings in Sitka

Need Help Finding an Apartment in Alaska?

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