Cities and Towns in Fairbanks North Star Borough, Alaska

Founded in 1964, Fairbanks North Star Borough is one of 20 boroughs in the state of Alaska. The city of Fairbanks is the borough seat. With FIPS code of 90, Fairbanks North Star Borough has a population of 95,593 and area of 7,335 square miles (18,998 km²).

List of all cities in Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Badger, AK	99711	907
Coldfoot, AK	99701	907
Eielson AFB, AK	99702	907
Ester, AK	99725	907
Fairbanks, AK	99701	907
	99702	907
	99705	907
	99706	907
	99707	907
	99708	907
	99709	907
	99710	907
	99711	907
	99712	907
	99714	907
	99716	907
	99775	907
	99790	907
Fort Wainwright, AK	99703	907
North Pole, AK	99705	907
Salcha, AK	99714	907
Steese, AK	99710	907
Two Rivers, AK	99716	907

Major Cities and Towns in Fairbanks North Star Borough, Alaska

Fairbanks

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 32.7 square miles
• Population: 32,515 (as of the last census)
• ZIP Codes: 99701-99712
• Latitude and Longitude:
  • Latitude: 64.8378° N
  • Longitude: 147.7164° W

Location and History

Fairbanks is the largest city in the interior region of Alaska and serves as the economic and cultural hub of the Fairbanks North Star Borough. Founded in 1901 during the Klondike Gold Rush, Fairbanks quickly grew as a center for gold mining, trade, and transportation. The city’s location along the Chena River made it a key point for river transportation, and its connection to the Alaska Railroad further solidified its importance. Fairbanks also played a significant role during World War II and the Cold War, serving as a strategic military location. Today, Fairbanks is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse population, and as a gateway to the Arctic and Denali National Park. The city experiences extreme temperature variations, with cold winters and warm summers, making it a unique place to live and visit.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Fairbanks is served by the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, which includes several high schools, such as Lathrop High School and West Valley High School, as well as the University of Alaska Fairbanks, a major research institution. The city is home to several significant landmarks, including the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, which offers exhibits on Alaska’s native cultures and natural history. Pioneer Park, a historic theme park, showcases the history of Fairbanks and the Gold Rush era. The Museum of the North, located on the university campus, features exhibits on Alaska’s natural and cultural history. Additionally, the nearby Chena River State Recreation Area and Denali National Park provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

North Pole

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 4.2 square miles
• Population: 2,243 (as of the last census)
• ZIP Codes: 99705
• Latitude and Longitude:
  • Latitude: 64.7511° N
  • Longitude: 147.3494° W

Location and History

North Pole is a small city located just 13 miles southeast of Fairbanks in the Fairbanks North Star Borough. Despite its name, North Pole is not located near the geographic North Pole but was named to attract toy manufacturers and boost the local economy. The city was established in 1944 and developed primarily as a residential community for workers in the nearby Eielson Air Force Base and Fairbanks. North Pole is best known for its Christmas-themed decorations and attractions, including Santa Claus House, which draws tourists year-round. The city’s festive spirit is reflected in its street names, such as Santa Claus Lane and Kris Kringle Drive, making it a unique and whimsical place to live and visit.

Major Schools and Landmarks

North Pole is part of the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, with North Pole High School, North Pole Middle School, and several elementary schools serving the community. The city’s most notable landmark is Santa Claus House, a year-round Christmas store that features a large statue of Santa Claus, holiday decorations, and letters from children around the world. The nearby Chena Lake Recreation Area offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities. The community also hosts an annual Winter Festival, which includes a fireworks display, ice sculptures, and other winter-themed events, further solidifying North Pole’s identity as a Christmas town.

Ester

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 64.5 square miles
• Population: 2,422 (as of the last census)
• ZIP Codes: 99725
• Latitude and Longitude:
  • Latitude: 64.8564° N
  • Longitude: 148.0153° W

Location and History

Ester is a small, unincorporated community located about 8 miles west of Fairbanks in the Fairbanks North Star Borough. The town was founded in 1906 as a gold mining camp during the Fairbanks Gold Rush and quickly grew into a bustling community. Ester’s mining history is still evident today, with remnants of old mining operations scattered throughout the area. After the gold rush declined, Ester became a haven for artists, writers, and free spirits, developing a unique and eclectic cultural scene. The town is known for its vibrant arts community, with several galleries, studios, and festivals celebrating local creativity. Ester maintains a strong sense of identity and community, with residents taking pride in their town’s history and cultural contributions.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ester is served by the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby Fairbanks. The town’s most notable landmarks include the Ester Gold Camp, a historic site that offers a glimpse into the area’s mining past, and the Malemute Saloon, a historic bar that has been a gathering place for miners and locals since the early 20th century. The Ester Community Park and Ester Dome, a nearby mountain, provide opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and outdoor recreation. The town also hosts the annual Ester Fest, a celebration of local arts, music, and culture that draws visitors from across the region.

Fox

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 76.7 square miles
• Population: 417 (as of the last census)
• ZIP Codes: 99712
• Latitude and Longitude:
  • Latitude: 64.9806° N
  • Longitude: 147.6222° W

Location and History

Fox is a small community located about 10 miles northeast of Fairbanks in the Fairbanks North Star Borough. The town was founded in the early 1900s during the Fairbanks Gold Rush and served as a supply center for miners working in the surrounding areas. Fox grew rapidly as miners flocked to the area in search of gold, and it became a key stop along the Steese Highway, which connected Fairbanks to the gold fields. Over time, the town’s population declined as mining activities decreased, but Fox has remained a tight-knit community with a rich history. Today, Fox is known for its scenic location along the Steese Highway and its proximity to popular recreational areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Fox is part of the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby Fairbanks. The town’s most notable landmarks include the Fox Roadhouse, a historic establishment that has served travelers and locals since the early 1900s, and the Pedro Monument, which commemorates the first gold strike in the Fairbanks area by Felix Pedro in 1902. The nearby Gold Dredge No. 8, a historic mining site, offers tours and gold panning experiences for visitors. The Steese Highway, which passes through Fox, provides access to some of Alaska’s most beautiful landscapes, including the White Mountains National Recreation Area, making it a popular route for tourists and adventurers.

Map of Cities in Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK