Cities and Towns in Anchorage Borough, Alaska
Founded in 1964/1975, Anchorage is one of 20 boroughs in the state of Alaska. Historically, Anchorage was formed from Anchorage Borough in 1964, merged with city in 1975 to form unified city-borough. The city of (Consolidated city-borough) is the borough seat. With FIPS code of 20, Anchorage has a population of 288,121 and area of 1,707 square miles (4,421 km²).
List of all cities in Anchorage Borough, AK alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Anchorage, AK | 99505 | 907 |
99501 | 907 | |
99502 | 907 | |
99503 | 907 | |
99504 | 907 | |
99505 | 907 | |
99506 | 907 | |
99507 | 907 | |
99508 | 907 | |
99509 | 907 | |
99510 | 907 | |
99511 | 907 | |
99513 | 907 | |
99514 | 907 | |
99515 | 907 | |
99516 | 907 | |
99517 | 907 | |
99518 | 907 | |
99519 | 907 | |
99520 | 907 | |
99521 | 907 | |
99522 | 907 | |
99523 | 907 | |
99524 | 907 | |
99529 | 907 | |
99530 | 907 | |
99540 | 907 | |
99599 | 907 | |
99695 | 907 | |
Chugiak, AK | 99567 | 907 |
Eagle River, AK | 99577 | 907 |
Elmendorf AFB, AK | 99506 | 907 |
Fort Richardson, AK | 99505 | 907 |
Girdwood, AK | 99587 | 907 |
Indian, AK | 99540 | 907 |
Major Cities and Towns in Anchorage Borough, Alaska
Anchorage
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1,946.69 square miles
- Population: 291,247 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 99501-99524
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 61.2181° N
- Longitude: 149.9003° W
Location and History
Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and serves as the state’s cultural and economic hub. Located in south-central Alaska on the shores of Cook Inlet, Anchorage was founded in 1914 as a construction port for the Alaska Railroad. The city’s strategic location made it a vital transportation and military hub, particularly during World War II and the Cold War. Anchorage’s growth was further accelerated by the discovery of oil in Prudhoe Bay in 1968, which established the city as a central point for the oil industry. Despite its modern development, Anchorage retains a deep connection to the natural environment, surrounded by mountains, forests, and waterways. The city is a gateway to numerous Alaskan wilderness adventures, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Anchorage is served by the Anchorage School District, which is the largest in Alaska, with numerous high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools. Some of the notable educational institutions include West Anchorage High School, East Anchorage High School, and Bartlett High School. The city is home to several significant landmarks, including the Anchorage Museum, which offers exhibits on Alaskan history, art, and culture. The Alaska Native Heritage Center provides insights into the rich cultural heritage of Alaska’s indigenous peoples. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, a scenic path along Cook Inlet, offers stunning views of the city’s natural surroundings and is a popular spot for both residents and visitors. Additionally, Chugach State Park, located on the city’s eastern edge, provides vast areas for hiking, wildlife viewing, and skiing.
Eagle River
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 42.88 square miles
- Population: 35,012 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 99577
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 61.3217° N
- Longitude: 149.5674° W
Location and History
Eagle River is a community within the Municipality of Anchorage, located just 12 miles northeast of downtown Anchorage. The area was originally inhabited by the Dena’ina people and was later settled by gold prospectors in the early 20th century. Eagle River developed slowly until the construction of the Glenn Highway, which connected it to Anchorage and spurred residential growth. Today, Eagle River is a thriving suburban community known for its scenic surroundings and proximity to outdoor recreation. The community offers a quieter, more rural lifestyle compared to the urban core of Anchorage, while still providing easy access to the amenities of a large city.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Eagle River is part of the Anchorage School District, with major schools including Eagle River High School, Gruening Middle School, and Eagle River Elementary School. Key landmarks in the area include the Eagle River Nature Center, which serves as a gateway to Chugach State Park and offers hiking trails, educational programs, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The annual Bear Paw Festival is a major community event, celebrating the town’s unique culture with parades, games, and local food. Additionally, the surrounding Chugach Mountains offer numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and hiking.
Girdwood
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 39.27 square miles
- Population: 1,936 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 99587
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 60.9419° N
- Longitude: 149.1669° W
Location and History
Girdwood is a small town located within the Municipality of Anchorage, approximately 40 miles southeast of downtown Anchorage. Originally established as a gold mining town in the late 19th century, Girdwood has evolved into a popular year-round resort community. The town is nestled in a valley surrounded by the Chugach Mountains, making it a picturesque location for outdoor enthusiasts. Girdwood is best known for the Alyeska Resort, which is one of Alaska’s premier ski destinations. Over the years, Girdwood has maintained its small-town charm while attracting visitors for its outdoor recreation, art scene, and community events.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Girdwood is served by the Anchorage School District, with Girdwood School providing education from kindergarten through 8th grade. Notable landmarks in the town include the Alyeska Resort, which offers skiing, snowboarding, and scenic tram rides in the winter, as well as hiking and mountain biking in the summer. The town is also home to the Crow Creek Historic Gold Mine, where visitors can experience gold panning and learn about the area’s mining history. The Girdwood Forest Fair, held annually, is a popular event that features local crafts, music, and food, reflecting the town’s vibrant artistic community.
Chugiak
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 42.99 square miles
- Population: 8,300 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 99567
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 61.3993° N
- Longitude: 149.4219° W
Location and History
Chugiak is a community within the Municipality of Anchorage, located about 20 miles northeast of downtown Anchorage along the Glenn Highway. The area was originally settled in the 1950s by homesteaders and military personnel, many of whom were stationed at nearby Elmendorf Air Force Base. The name “Chugiak” is derived from a Dena’ina Athabascan word meaning “place of many places.” Chugiak has grown steadily over the decades, developing into a residential community known for its spacious properties and rural character. The community is closely connected to Eagle River, with many residents commuting to Anchorage for work while enjoying the quieter lifestyle that Chugiak offers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Chugiak is served by the Anchorage School District, with schools such as Chugiak High School, Mirror Lake Middle School, and Birchwood ABC Elementary School. The community is home to several key landmarks, including the Chugiak-Eagle River Senior Center, which serves as a hub for local events and activities. The surrounding Chugach Mountains offer abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Chugiak’s annual Winter Wonderland event is a popular community gathering, featuring holiday lights, festive activities, and a strong sense of local spirit.