海角社区

Picture this: spending your golden years surrounded by beauty, where the opportunities for adventures are endless. 鈥淭he Last Frontier鈥� is a breathtaking state renowned for its stunning landscapes, mesmerizing northern lights displays, and abundant wildlife. But did you know Alaska is also one of only nine states with no state income tax? From the lush forests of Ketchikan to the coastal charms of Seward, soak up the benefits of living in the 49th state, as you choose from Alaska's nine best retirement towns ranked.

Ketchikan

Nicknamed "The Salmon Capital of the 海角社区", Ketchikan is an extraordinary fishing destination. Between the salmon run that takes place seasonally in Ketchikan Creek Falls and treasures you can explore with day cruises from Baranof Marina, Mother Earth will be your oyster. Access jaw-dropping sites like Tongass National Forest, America's largest national forest spanning nearly 17 million acres.

Ketchikan was also named one of the 5 Safest Cities in Alaska for 2024 by SafeWise, so you can feel secure visiting the region鈥檚 natural marvels. Plus, PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center is located right in town. With their 24/7 Emergency, Home Health and Hospice, New Horizons Traditional Care, and other available services; rest assured you will be taken care of in one of Alaska's 9 best retirement towns.

Juneau

Discover an unbeatable mix of outdoor adventures, recreational activities, and city amenities in Juneau. From the gorgeous glacier views and spectacular waterfall trails from Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, and the remarkable vistas of Mount Roberts Tramway taking you up Mount Roberts; you will be blown away by the beauty of the Alaskan capital. Venture through the beautiful botanical Glacier Gardens; and dive deeper into the culture exploring Alaska State Museum鈥檚 diverse exhibits.

Juneau Community Center Medical facilities like Bartlett Regional Hospital are also in Juneau, where Long-Term Care, Home Health, Hospice, Emergency, Critical Care, and other services are available. Juneau Pioneer Home also offers supportive, caring living homes operated by the State for those who are interested.

Fairbanks

Home to Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, the Best Hospital in Alaska in 2025 according to Newsweek and Statista, you can access excellent healthcare facilities living in Fairbanks. This facility provides care in over 27 specialties for residents. Assisted & Long-Term Care are available through the Denali Center, Home Health Services, Hospice Care, and Palliative Care.

Besides being one of the best places to see the northern lights in Alaska, Fairbanks is home to many gems that make this city truly special. Spot up to 15 kinds of mammals including moose, flying squirrels, and snowshoe hares in the Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary, and over 100 bird species such as tundra swan and kingfishers. Enjoy lovely morning strolls by the Chena River in Golden Heart Plaza, a central site where many community events and activities are held downtown. The city also features fascinating museums; from the period fashions and vintage automobiles of Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum to the locally made sculptures of the Fairbanks Ice Museum.

Palmer

How does living in a serene small town, surrounded by the amenities of Alaska鈥檚 biggest city sound? Under 45 miles from Anchorage you will find Palmer, a picturesque city situated in the Matanuska Valley. With its 海角社区-class fishing opportunities, extraordinary Alaska State Fairgrounds, and proximity to the Matanuska Glacier (the biggest glacier in the US accessible by car), Palmer is the perfect place to experience "Alaska at its Best." Find all kinds of activities year-round in the Reindeer Farm and soak in the beauty of the dazzling Reflections Lake, as you experience the benefits of living in one of Alaska's 9 best retirement towns.

Palmer is also one of the safer cities to live in Alaska. According to CrimeGrade in 2025, it is safer than 77% of cities. Mat-Su Regional Medical Center has a 24/7 Emergency department, plus a focus on healthy aging. Strategies include increasing services and supports and aiming to create an age and disability-friendly community. Providence Alaska Medical Center, the largest hospital in Alaska, recognized by Healthgrades for the Outstanding Patient Experience Award in 2024, is also accessible.

Homer

Named 鈥淭he Halibut Fishing Capital of the 海角社区鈥�, you will quickly see why Homer is such an incredible fishing destination. Test your luck at Homer Spit, a legendary 4.5-mile landmark jutting into Kachemak Bay. Admire the exquisite glacier-mountain views and try mouthwatering local seafood in spots like Harbor Grill. Spend some time in Kachemak Bay State Park, where the options for hiking, boating, kayaking, fishing, camping, and mountain sports are abundant. This 400,000-acre state park is the perfect place to unravel the natural beauty of Alaska, where glaciers, forests, mountains, and the ocean meet.

Recognized by SafeWise as one of the Five Safest Cities in Alaska for 2024, you can feel secure exploring Homer鈥檚 natural wonders. South Peninsula Hospital is located in town, with a Long Term and Extended Care facility. Special clinic services including Orthopedics, Audiology, and Endocrinology are also available.

Sitka

A fascinating mix of beauty, history, and culture awaits in Sitka, Alaska鈥檚 first state capital. Discover the place where Alaska was officially transferred from Russia to the US in 1867 on top of Castle Hill, otherwise known as Baranof Castle State Historic Site. This extraordinary National Historic Landmark offers spectacular views of downtown Sitka and the waterfront from the city center. Sitka National Historical Park is a stunning spot filled with scenic hiking trails, captivating Totem Poles, and plenty of wildlife. Intriguing sites like the Alaska Raptor Center are also here, with meaningful volunteer opportunities to help rescue local animals.

Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center offers several medical and social services in town, including Specialty Care, Primary Care, and Long-Term Care Planning. The city also has assisted living homes such as Sitka Pioneers' Home, where meal preparation, recreational activities, and social work services are offered for those who need them.

Kenai

Located on the Kenai Peninsula, this captivating city has plenty to offer. as one of Alaska's 9 best retirement towns. Fish for King Salmon in the Kenai River, where Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, and Lake Trout can also be caught. Watch the tide from Kenai Beach, basking in the beauty of the Cook Inlet and mountainous backdrops. Enjoy fresh meals in restaurants like Louie's Steak & Seafood; make sure you try the famous Clam Chowder here.

Central Peninsula Hospital is easily accessible in the neighboring sister city of Soldotna, where plenty of services including a 24/7 Emergency department are available. A Continuing Care program is available through Heritage Place, designed to help seniors who require it. Semi-private rooms are offered, as well as therapeutic recreation, personalized meals, rehabilitative therapies, and more.

Wasilla

In the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, you will find Wasilla, a gorgeous small city surrounded by the Talkeetna and Chugach mountains. Enjoy peaceful morning walks through Newcomb Park, situated by the beautiful Wasilla Lake. Practice your aim in the Settlers Bay Golf Course, an 18-hole course with incredible mountain views; and discover endless opportunities for skiing, fishing, canoeing, and more in Nancy Lake State Recreation Area.

Wasilla is also 40 miles from Anchorage, which means you can access top-notch facilities like Alaska Regional Hospital. This facility has been recognized by Healthgrades for several awards, including the Patient Safety Excellence Award in 2023 and 2024.

Seward

Unlock the perfect blend of adventures and relaxation in Seward, a charming coastal town at the head of Resurrection Bay; also called the 鈥淕ateway to the Kenai Fjords.鈥� Spend some time in Chugach National Forest, the northernmost National Forest in the USA. See gorgeous glaciers that will truly make your jaw drop, along with 1800 miles of anadromous streams and over 500 miles of trails. Stroll by the Seward Boat Harbor, a lovely port with plenty of options to explore Kenai Fjords National Park and beyond. The Highliner Restaurant is an incredible spot to try local eats with great quality and service.

Providence Seward Medical Center is in town, where Emergency, Rehabilitation, a Swing Bed Program, and other departments are available. Fulfilling volunteer opportunities are available at the Alaska SeaLife Center, where you can make long-lasting new connections and learn about the marine field.

Between breathtaking landscapes, jaw-dropping vistas, and no state income tax, The Last Frontier is a lovely place to spend your golden years. Whether you prefer the exciting outdoor adventure activities of Juneau, the picturesque natural wonders of Palmer, or the historic gems of Sitka, get ready to spend every day in a destination you truly love. Choose from one of Alaska鈥檚 9 best retirement towns to reside in today!