If you’re thinking about moving to Alaska, cities like Anchorage or Juneau might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, Alaska’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 9 charming small towns in Alaska, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
1. Willow, AK
Median sale price: $310,000
Homes for sale in Willow | Apartments for rent in Willow
Willow is famous for being the official restart point of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, one of the most iconic events in the state. Each March, the town comes alive as mushers and their dog teams set off on the grueling journey to Nome. Willow is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with nearby Willow Creek having some of the best salmon fishing in the region. During the summer months, you can enjoy hiking, ATV riding, and berry picking in the surrounding wilderness.
2. Houston, AK
Median sale price: $257,000
Homes for sale in Houston | Apartments for rent in Houston
Houston may be small, but its location along the Little Susitna River makes it a popular spot for fishing and camping. Residents and visitors often spend weekends at the river, casting lines for salmon and trout or simply soaking in the beauty of Alaska’s landscapes. Houston is also known for its several lakes, including the popular Finger Lake, where kayaking and canoeing are favorite summer activities.
3. Healy, AK
Median sale price: $236,000
Homes for sale in Healy | Apartments for rent in Healy
Healy, located just 11 miles from the entrance to Denali National Park, is a perfect spot for adventurers looking to explore Alaska’s tallest peak. The town is a starting point for hiking, wildlife viewing, and mountaineering. In the winter, Healy transforms into a haven for snowmachining and cross-country skiing, with miles of trails waiting to be explored. A fun fact: Healy was one of the filming locations for the movie Into the Wild, adding to its rugged, remote appeal.
4. Seward, AK
Median sale price: $530,000
Homes for sale in Seward | Apartments for rent in Seward
Seward, located on the edge of Resurrection Bay, is one of Alaska’s most scenic coastal towns and a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Each summer, the town hosts the Mount Marathon Race, a grueling mountain run that draws athletes and spectators to the area. Visitors love taking boat tours to see glaciers, whales, and sea lions up close, while locals enjoy fishing in the bay or hiking along the nearby Harding Icefield Trail. The Alaska SeaLife Center is another highlight, where you can learn about marine life native to the region.
5. Butte, AK
Median sale price: $590,000
Homes for sale in Butte | Apartments for rent in Butte
Butte is located just outside Palmer, known for its proximity to the stunning Knik Glacier. Adventurers love exploring the glacier by taking ATV or helicopter tours that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and ice fields. Butte also has access to the Matanuska River, where rafting and fishing are popular summer activities. Locals enjoy hiking Lazy Mountain, a challenging trail that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the valley below.
6. Tok, AK
Median sale price: $125,000
Homes for sale in Tok | Apartments for rent in Tok
Tok, often referred to as the “Gateway to Alaska,” is the first major town you encounter when driving into the state from Canada. This small town has a welcoming spirit and serves as a hub for travelers exploring the Alaska Highway. One of the town’s fun attractions is the Tok Dog Mushers Association, where locals compete in dog sledding events during the winter months. Tok is also a base for exploring the surrounding wilderness, with ample opportunities for snowmobiling, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
7. Big Lake, AK
Median sale price: $446,000
Homes for sale in Big Lake | Apartments for rent in Big Lake
Big Lake, just an hour from Anchorage, is a recreational paradise known for its namesake lake. The lake draws boaters, anglers, and water sports enthusiasts during the summer months. In the winter, the frozen lake becomes a prime spot for snowmachining and ice fishing, offering year-round outdoor fun. The town’s proximity to Denali State Park and the Talkeetna Mountains makes it an ideal base for hiking and exploring the Alaskan wilderness. A fun fact: Big Lake was the training ground for famed Iditarod musher, Martin Buser, and continues to be a hub for sled dog training.
8. Anchor Point, AK
Median sale price: $293,000
Homes for sale in Anchor Point | Apartments for rent in Anchor Point
Anchor Point, the westernmost point on North America’s highway system, is a small fishing town with a big claim to fame. Locals and visitors head to the Anchor River for some of the best salmon and halibut fishing in the state, while beachcombing along the rugged coastline is a favorite pastime. The town also offers views of Mount Iliamna and Mount Redoubt, two active volcanoes across Cook Inlet. Each summer, Anchor Point celebrates with the annual Anchor Point Halibut Derby, where fishermen compete to catch the largest halibut.
9. Lazy Mountain, AK
Median sale price: $170,000
Homes for sale in Lazy Mountain | Apartments for rent in Lazy Mountain
Lazy Mountain isn’t just a town—it’s also the name of one of the region’s most popular hiking spots, located in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. Residents love the challenge of hiking to the summit, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valley and distant mountains. The town itself is quiet and rural, with a focus on agriculture and outdoor living. Nearby Palmer offers amenities and attractions, but Lazy Mountain is perfect for those who want to live close to nature.
