Best Places to Live in Alaska

for Remote Workers

By Alaska House Hunting

Remote work has opened the door to living in places once considered impractical for traditional careers—and Alaska is quickly emerging as a compelling option. With breathtaking landscapes, tight-knit communities, and growing infrastructure, the state offers unique opportunities for professionals who can work from anywhere.

If you’re searching for the best places to live in Alaska, especially as a remote worker, this guide breaks down the top regions based on affordability, internet access, amenities, and lifestyle.

Why Alaska Appeals to Remote Workers

Alaska isn’t just about wilderness and adventure. For remote workers, it offers several practical advantages:

• No state income tax, helping stretch remote salaries further

• Lower population density, ideal for those seeking space and quiet

• Expanding broadband access, particularly in major hubs

• High quality of life, with unmatched outdoor recreation

• Strong sense of community, even in larger cities

While rural areas can pose connectivity challenges, several regions stand out as both livable and remote-work friendly.

Anchorage: Alaska’s Most Connected City

Best for: Urban amenities, reliable internet, job flexibility
Population: ~290,000

Anchorage consistently ranks among the best places to live in Alaska for remote workers. As the state’s largest city, it offers the most robust infrastructure, healthcare access, and internet reliability.

Why Remote Workers Choose Anchorage

• High-speed broadband and multiple internet providers

• Diverse housing options, from downtown condos to hillside homes

• Restaurants, coworking spaces, and cultural amenities

• International airport with direct flights to the Lower 48

Things to Consider

• Higher housing costs compared to other Alaskan regions

• More traffic and congestion than smaller communities

Anchorage is ideal for remote professionals who want Alaska’s scenery without sacrificing convenience.

Mat-Su Valley: Space, Affordability, and Flexibility

Best for: Families, homebuyers, hybrid workers
Key towns: Wasilla, Palmer

Located about an hour north of Anchorage, the Mat-Su Valley (Matanuska-Susitna Borough) has become one of the fastest-growing regions in the state.

Why It’s a Top Choice

• More affordable home prices than Anchorage

• Larger lots and new construction options

• Improving internet infrastructure

• Easy commute to Anchorage when needed

Lifestyle Snapshot

Mat-Su offers a suburban-rural blend—quiet neighborhoods, mountain views, and strong schools—making it especially attractive to remote workers with families.

Kenai Peninsula: Coastal Living With Balance

Best for: Outdoor lovers, creatives, lifestyle-driven workers
Key towns: Soldotna, Kenai, Homer

The Kenai Peninsula delivers classic Alaska beauty with a slightly slower pace of life. Coastal views, fishing towns, and access to trails make it one of the most scenic places to live in the state.

Why Remote Workers Love Kenai

• Lower housing costs than Anchorage

• Growing broadband availability in main towns

• Strong tourism-driven local economies

• Access to fishing, kayaking, and hiking

Trade-Offs

• Fewer shopping and healthcare options

• Longer travel times to major airports

Kenai is perfect for remote workers who prioritize lifestyle and outdoor access over city conveniences.

Fairbanks: Affordable and Independent

Best for: Budget-conscious workers, academics, extreme-climate enthusiasts
Population: ~32,000

Fairbanks offers some of the lowest housing prices among Alaska’s major cities, making it appealing for remote workers seeking affordability.

Key Advantages

• Lower cost of living compared to Anchorage

• Reliable internet in city limits

• Strong university and research presence

• Northern Lights visibility

Challenges to Keep in Mind

• Extremely cold winters

• Shorter daylight hours in winter months

For remote workers who can handle the climate, Fairbanks offers independence, affordability, and a tight-knit community.

Internet & Connectivity in Alaska

Internet access is often the deciding factor for remote workers. While Alaska still lags behind the Lower 48 in some rural areas, connectivity has improved significantly in:

• Anchorage

• Mat-Su Valley

• Fairbanks

• Kenai, Soldotna, and Homer

Before choosing a home, always:

• Verify available providers

• Ask about fiber vs. satellite options

• Check upload speeds for video calls

Cost of Living Comparison (General Overview)

Is Alaska Right for You as a Remote Worker?

Alaska isn’t for everyone, but for the right remote worker, it can be life-changing. If you value nature, independence, and space while still needing dependable infrastructure, the state offers multiple viable options.

Whether you want city convenience, family-friendly suburbs, coastal charm, or affordable independence, these regions represent the best places to live in Alaska for remote workers today.

Final Thoughts

Remote work has reshaped what “livable” means, and Alaska is no longer just a dream destination. With careful planning and the right location, it can be a practical, inspiring place to call home.

If you’re considering making the move, working with a local Alaska real estate expert can help you find a home that matches both your lifestyle and your work needs.