6 Best Places To Retire In Alaska

While it may not spring immediately to mind when we think about places to retire to in the United States, retiring to Alaska is certainly worth considering. In addition to offering an entirely unique blend of stunning natural beauty, as well as countless things to do for those wanting to stay active, Alaska’s most popular retirement destinations also boast a strong sense of community.

While living costs in Alaska are around 10 percent higher than the national average, this is often offset by affordable housing options and easy access to first-rate healthcare and social services. Alaska’s cultural offerings and scenic landscapes are also ideal for those who appreciate volunteer work and contributing, with senior clubs, volunteer organizations, and cultural events ensuring a fulfilling retirement experience. Read on to learn more about six of the best places to retire in Alaska that meet these criteria.

Seward

A friendly coastal town with beautiful scenery and easy access to outdoor activities, Seward is a popular choice for retirees seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. Located along Resurrection Bay, retirees here can enjoy nearby Kenai Fjords National Park with fun activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. The town’s active older community is supported by the Seward Senior Center, which provides fitness classes, social activities, and volunteer opportunities.

Other factors in Seward’s favor are its low crime rate and the top-notch healthcare services at the Seward Community Health Center, as well as an affordable housing market. A good choice for seniors interested in independent living, Providence Seward Mountain Haven is a small community of homes shared by older residents and is an attractive proposition for those on a fixed income. Seward’s historic downtown is safe and pleasant to walk, and volunteer opportunities are available at the Alaska SeaLife Center, a popular attraction that doubles as a marine research and rehabilitation facility.

Homer

Dubbed the "Halibut Fishing Capital of the World," Homer is a picturesque town located on Kachemak Bay that boasts spectacular views of glaciers, mountains, and the ocean, making it a dream destination for retirees who love the outdoors. A hub for the older crowd here is the Homer Senior Citizens Center which provides services ranging from meal programs to recreational activities including art classes and bingo. Top-notch healthcare services are also available at South Peninsula Hospital.

Homer’s housing market is moderately affordable, and many retirees are drawn to retirement housing options such as those provided by Pioneer Vista Senior Housing with its mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments. The town’s also a hub for artists and writers, with groups like Homer Council on the Arts (HCOA) supporting local talent. Cultural activities are also on offer at Pier One Theatre, a thriving local theater company, as well as the Pratt Museum, a regional natural history museum (both are also great spots to volunteer).

Palmer

The small town of Palmer is located in the Matanuska Valley, an area that’s known for its rich farmland and proximity to Anchorage, just 40 miles to the south. Retirees can enjoy visiting local farms for fresh produce, while local businesses like Musk Ox Farm and Reindeer Farm offer opportunities to get up close to some of the region’s native animals. Palmer’s farm life and bountiful harvests are also celebrated at the Alaska State Fair, held here every August since 1936.

Active retirees will want to include Palmer Senior Citizens Center in their social life, too. Run by Mat-Su Senior Services, this first-rate facility features exercise classes, craft workshops, and social events in its busy social calendar. Other notable factors worth considering are Palmer's lower housing costs (certainly compared to nearby Anchorage), making it an attractive place for those looking to stretch their retirement savings; a low crime rate; and access to healthcare services through facilities such as the Mat-Su Regional Medical Center.

Valdez

Valdez is an important port town that’s certainly worth looking into as a retirement destination. Surrounded by spectacular scenery and well-known for its fishing and boating, it’s also become a popular hiking destination, with nearby attractions like Valdez Glacier Lake being a big draw. The town’s proximity to Prince William Sound is also a plus for those who enjoy wildlife-viewing experiences such as whale-watching.

Services for retirees are also taken care of here, with the Valdez Senior Citizens Center providing activities for older adults including games nights, arts and crafts clubs, and regular group outings. Concerned about healthcare services? Don’t be. The Providence Valdez Medical Center provides reliable healthcare services for residents when they’re needed. And for those who enjoy volunteering, the Valdez Museum & Historical Archive relies on volunteers to provide tours and educational programs on local history.

Kodiak

Situated on Kodiak Island in the north end of the Gulf of Alaska, Kodiak is just the place for retirees seeking a quiet, relatively remote island-living experience that’s far removed from the big cities. Surrounded by ocean and thick forests, the town is famous for its wildlife, particularly the famous Kodiak bears, a subspecies of Grizzlies that have been isolated from the mainland for 12,00 years. While sightings are rare in town, bear-viewing sites are available at the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge. Other outdoor pursuits include fishing, hiking, and beachcombing on the surrounding rugged shoreline.

Looking for an active social life? Kodiak Senior Center puts on a variety of engaging social programs and exercise classes, as well as transportation services when needed. Housing prices in Kodiak are relatively low compared to more populous areas, and the town offers several retirement housing options, such as the Kodiak Island Housing Authority’s senior apartments. The healthcare needs of residents of all ages are well-served by Providence Kodiak Island Medical Center, while cultural events like the Kodiak Crab Festival provide opportunities for fun and volunteering.

Sitka

Sitka is another island destination that’s worth considering in your Alaska retirement plans. Located on Baranof Island, part of the Alexander Archipelago, this pleasant and friendly coastal town boasts a rich history and a strong sense of community, all within proximity of Sitka National Historical Park, a popular site for walking and birdwatching. The town’s older population also has access to programs at Swan Lake Senior Center including social outings and volunteer opportunities.

Affordable housing options and a moderate cost of living also make Sitka a practical option for those seeking a safe, secure place in which to retire. The local cultural scene, including the Sitka Summer Music Festival (now in its 54th year) and the Sheldon Jackson Museum, not only add to the town’s charm but also offer plenty of opportunities to volunteer, as does the Sitka Conservation Society. The town’s low crime rate and access to healthcare through Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center also make it an appealing place to retire.

The Final Word

While retiring to one of Alaska’s small towns isn’t for everyone, those who are looking for a unique mix of outdoor adventure, community involvement, and tranquil living couldn’t do much better than consider retiring to “The Last Frontier.” Each of these Alaskan towns offers natural beauty, affordable housing, and senior-friendly services, making them excellent places for a comfortable retirement. From the fishing communities of Homer and Seward to the island lifestyle of Kodiak, Alaska’s small towns offer retirees the opportunity to lead active and fulfilling lives while enjoying the stunning landscapes the state is known for.