6 of the Friendliest Towns To Retire In Alaska
In Alaska, retirement can revolve around tight-knit towns where people show up for each other. Community calendars fill with hands-on ways to plug in, charity salmon tournaments on the Kenai River, spaghetti dinners in Fairbanks that raise funds to fight human trafficking, and volunteer shifts with groups like the Ketchikan Volunteer Rescue Squad. Many retirees find purpose as mentors, event helpers, or fundraiser regulars, becoming familiar faces at community centers. Just as important, these towns back that friendliness with practical support: senior centers that run meals, classes, and social groups; and accessible day services. Between the volunteer opportunities, community fundraisers, and reliable retiree resources—from Juneau’s senior programming to Sitka’s senior transit and Kenai’s 60+ gathering spots—you’re never far from both help and a welcoming place to belong!
Fairbanks
The second-largest city in Alaska, Fairbanks, a hub for the arctic, is well-known for its picture-perfect views of the northern lights. Providing year-round adventure and support services, retirees can continue to stay active regardless of the weather. Aging at Home Fairbanks is a member organization that provides older adults support to live independently and allows them to continue to be engaged with the community.
For an in-depth examination of Alaskan art, history, and science, attend the University of Alaska Museum of the North, a natural history museum that houses 2.5 million artifacts and specimens. Attend the annual Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction Fundraiser, with all you can eat and bid on items, with proceeds going towards the fight against sex trafficking with Priceless Alaska.
Juneau
Along the Alaskan Panhandle, on the Gastineau Channel, is the town of Juneau, a place where beauty and recreation are plentiful. In the downtown area is the Juneau Senior Center, offering activities, groups, and free meals to older residents. Visit the Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure, a botanical garden offering guided tours and beautiful forested landscapes with panoramic views of the town.
Juneau is also home to the Mendenhall Glacier, located in the Tongass National Forest. This 13-mile-long river of ice is a main attraction, offering opportunities for hiking and stunning views of waterfalls and the surrounding area. Those looking to support the community can access the Juneau Community Foundation is a local charitable organization that seeks to promote community well-being, providing funding for a wide-range of services.
Wasilla
In the southcentral part of Alaska, in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, sits Wasilla. This beautiful town offers senior-friendly activities, such as fishing and golfing. The Wasilla Area Seniors Inc. is a nonprofit senior center that offers older residents activities and groups such as Strong Seniors, a fitness program available online or in-person. Go fishing, swim, have a picnic, or walk along the waterside at Newcomb Park on Wasilla Lake.
During the winter, the park remains open and, weather permitting, offers ice skating. Play a round of golf at Settlers Bay Golf Course, situated in the beautiful Matanuska-Susitna Valley. At the HeartReach Center, a local healthcare center, residents can volunteer and participate or attend their fundraisers, such as the Fall Benefit Dinner, 5K for Life, or Baby Bottle Campaign.
Sitka
The historic town of Sitka on Baranof Island is a popular cruise point, known for its landmarks and heritage. Here, residents can experience the true beauty of Alaska. Walk around one of the most historically significant sites, the Baranof Castle State Historic Site, featuring an accessible walkway leading up to the top of the hill with beautiful views of the town and waterfront. A particularly beneficial program for older residents is Care-A-Van by the Sitka Public Transit, offering wheelchair-accessible transportation for seniors.
The town has many nonprofit organizations and fundraisers that keep residents busy. Particularly, animal rescue services are plentiful, with one focusing specifically on bears, and another, the Alaska Raptor Center, focusing on eagles, owls, and hawks. The center also provides educational programs, flying demonstrations, and expert lectures.
Ketchikan
Ketchikan is a beautiful coastal town known for its extensive totem pole collections and culture, the area is known as the "Salmon Capital of the World." There are a number of senior services and programs available in town, making it an ideal retirement location for those seeking support and engagement. At Rendezvous Senior Day Services Inc., older adults are provided with a safe place, providing social support and engagement.
See stunning collections of totem poles at the 11-acre Totem Bight State Historical Park, located at a former Native American fish camp. Created to serve the community, residents can join the Ketchikan Volunteer Rescue Squad is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization that conducts wilderness recovery, rescue, and search missions in the southeast region of Alaska.
Kenai
On the Kenai Peninsula, in southcentral Alaska, is the coastal city of Kenai, a picturesque retirement destination. A focal point for residents 60+ is the Kenai Senior Citizen Center, where older individuals come together for programs and fellowship. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, an extensive 1.92-million-acre area of wilderness for camping, hiking, and viewing wildlife.
At Kenai South Beach, walk along the coastline, taking in views of the Alaska Mountain Range and several volcanoes. With the Kenai River being a world-class fishing area, there are numerous local causes and fundraisers focusing on the sport. In September, the town hosts the annual Furie Rainbow Challenge, a fishing tournament and food festival that benefits the Boys and Girls Club of Kenai.
Alaska Strong
As the largest state in the US spanning over 665,000 square miles, containing millions of lakes, and 46,600 miles of shoreline, the towns in Alaska are predominantly separated by large distances. These distances, however, do not ruin the support and sense of togetherness that is felt by residents.
The places discussed and described are rooted in community values, strength, and solidarity, making these towns perfect destinations for retirement. Events such as charity fishing tournaments, volunteer initiatives, and local fundraisers in places like Ketchikan and Fairbanks demonstrate how residents come together to support important causes, while making new connections.
