What you will find here
-
The directory
Businesses across Anchorage, with hours, phone numbers and directions that we check.
-
Reading
Guides, round-ups and local news — written about here, not syndicated from anywhere.
Get involved
About Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage: Where adventure meets urban flair, framed by nature's grandeur.
Anchorage, Alaska, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and bustling city life. Located in the heart of the Last Frontier, it serves as a gateway to Alaska's stunning wilderness, with sprawling mountains and pristine waters mere moments away. Historically, Anchorage was established as a railroad construction port in the early 20th century, and it has since evolved into Alaska's largest city. Despite its urban setting, Anchorage maintains close ties to its roots, celebrating indigenous cultures and a robust outdoor lifestyle.
The city's economy is diverse, anchored by sectors such as oil, transportation, and tourism. Anchorage is also a hub for healthcare and military services, playing a crucial role in the state's economic landscape. Cultural vibrancy thrives through various festivals and events, reflecting a melting pot of traditions and artistic expressions. Anchorage stands out not only for its economic role but also for its commitment to conservation and education in one of the most environmentally significant regions of the world.
Visitors and residents enjoy vast opportunities for hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching, alongside a thriving arts scene and culinary innovations inspired by the rich local resources. From dog sledding adventures to exploring the northern lights, Anchorage is a city where nature and civilization harmoniously coexist, making it a compelling destination for adventurers and urban explorers alike.
The basics
- Population
- 291K
- Median age
- 34.6 years
- Area
- 1,950 sq mi
- Elevation
- 102 ft
- County
- Anchorage Municipality
- Metro area
- Anchorage, AK Metro Area
Work and housing
- Median household income
- $77,454
- Median home price
- $334,000
- Cost of living (US = 100)
- 126
- Unemployment
- 5.4%
- Job growth
- 0.8%
- Households renting
- 42.1%
Schools and colleges
- Bachelor's degree or higher
- 36.2%
- High school graduation
- 87.9%
- Going on to college
- 62.3%
- Schools
- 130
- Colleges and universities
- 2
- Students per teacher
- 17.5:1
- Public libraries
- 8
Getting around
- Average commute
- 19 minutes
- Highways
- Glenn Highway, Seward Highway, AK-1
- Public transit
- People Mover
- Airports
- ANC - Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
Sport
- Venues
- Sullivan Arena (8,000)
Living here
- Climate
- Subarctic
- Time zone
- America/Anchorage
- Area code
- 907
- ZIP codes
- 99501, 99502, 99503, 99504, 99507, 99508, 99515, 99516, 99517, 99518
Industries
- Oil and Gas
- Tourism
- Transportation
- Healthcare
- Military
Landmarks
- Captain Cook Monument
- Earthquake Park
- Alaska Railroad Depot
- Pioneer Schoolhouse
Attractions
- Alaska Zoo
- Anchorage Museum
- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
- Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
- Flattop Mountain
- Point Woronzof
Museums
- Anchorage Museum
- Alaska Aviation Museum
- Alaska Museum of Science and Nature
- Wells Fargo Alaska Heritage Museum
Parks
Hospitals
- Providence Alaska Medical Center
- Alaska Regional Hospital
- Anchorage VA Medical Center
- Alaska Native Medical Center
Colleges
- University of Alaska Anchorage
- Alaska Pacific University