Healthiest Places to Live in Alaska

Alaska is known for its harmonious relationship with nature. Alaska’s majestic wildlife, rich indigenous heritage, and stunning view of the Northern Lights bring people from all over the world to this vast state. 

From the mountains and glaciers to the largest national forest in the country, it is no wonder these cities remain so healthy.

3. Fairbanks

Niche fitness score: B+

Smoking rate: 22.6

Physical inactivity rate: 25.4

Air quality rate: 16

Fairbanks starts our list of healthiest cities in the interior region of central Alaska. Fairbanks is the third largest city in the state and is considered the coldest large city in the country! The short, warm summers are quickly forgotten as snow and freezing temps start as early as September and last into early May. Those warm summers also mean the start of the phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun. Fairbanks takes full advantage of these bright nights by hosting the Midnight Sun baseball game every year during the summer solstice.

2. Juneau

Niche fitness score: A-

Smoking rate: 14.8

Physical inactivity rate: 21.0

Air quality rate: 21

Sitting in the middle of our list is Alaska’s state capital! The unique terrain in the Alaskan panhandle makes Juneau only accessible by ferry or plane, and it is one of two state capitals that are not connected to the rest of North America by road! Juneau is famous for its “almost endless” outdoor recreation and takes pride in knowing that many of its residents came for the adventure and never left! In addition to its wildlife, Juneau also celebrates its heritage every year at the Alaska Folk Festival, a week-long celebration honoring local artists, musicians, and dancers.

1. Anchorage

Niche fitness score: A-

Smoking rate: 15.6

Physical inactivity rate: 17.9

Air quality rate: 13

The healthiest city in Alaska is Anchorage. It is the most populated city in the state, being home to about 40% of Alaska’s population! This Southcentral city has everything you need for an outdoor adventure. Take a hike across any of its six surrounding mountain ranges or bike through 250 miles of trails, both natural and paved, within the city. Celebrate Anchorage’s rich history with the annual Fur Rendezvous festival. The Fur Rondy, as it is known locally, is the largest and oldest winter festival in the state (it’s been around since before Alaska even gained statehood!). People come from around the world each year to participate in fun activities like the Running of the Reindeer and the Sled Dog Races.