Cities and Towns in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska
Founded in 1964, Matanuska-Susitna Borough is one of 20 boroughs in the state of Alaska. The city of Palmer is the borough seat. With FIPS code of 170, Matanuska-Susitna Borough has a population of 110,686 and area of 24,707 square miles (63,991 km²).
List of all cities in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Big Lake, AK | 99652 | 907 |
| Chickaloon, AK | 99674 | 907 |
| Houston, AK | 99694 | 907 |
| Meadow Lake, AK | 99629 | 907 |
| Palmer, AK | 99645 | 907 |
| Skwentna, AK | 99667 | 907 |
| Sutton, AK | 99674 | 907 |
| Talkeetna, AK | 99676 | 907 |
| Trapper Creek, AK | 99683 | 907 |
| Wasilla, AK | 99629 | 907 |
| 99652 | 907 | |
| 99654 | 907 | |
| 99687 | 907 | |
| 99694 | 907 | |
| Willow, AK | 99683 | 907 |
| 99688 | 907 |
Major Cities and Towns in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska
Wasilla
- Area: 13.5 square miles
- Population: 9,054 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 99654, 99687
- Latitude and Longitude: 61.5814° N, 149.4394° W
Location and History
Wasilla is the largest city in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, located approximately 43 miles northeast of Anchorage. The city was established in 1917 as a supply base for gold miners working in the nearby Willow Creek Mining District. It was named after Chief Wasilla, a respected leader of the local Dena’ina Athabascan people. The construction of the Alaska Railroad further boosted Wasilla’s growth, making it a key transportation hub for the region. Over the years, Wasilla has transitioned from a mining and agricultural center to a suburban city that serves as a commercial and service hub for the surrounding area. The city’s proximity to Anchorage has contributed to its rapid growth, as it has become a popular residential area for those who commute to the larger city. Today, Wasilla is known for its vibrant community, recreational opportunities, and as the headquarters of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wasilla is served by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District, with Wasilla High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several significant landmarks, including the Iditarod Trail Headquarters, where visitors can learn about the history of the famous sled dog race and even take a short sled dog ride. The Dorothy G. Page Museum, named after the “Mother of the Iditarod,” offers exhibits on Wasilla’s history, from its mining days to its development as a modern city. The nearby Lake Lucile provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking, making it a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors alike. Wasilla’s annual events, such as the Iditarod restart and the Mat-Su Miners baseball games, draw crowds and celebrate the city’s rich cultural and sporting heritage. The combination of history, outdoor activities, and community events make Wasilla a vibrant and welcoming place to live and visit.
Palmer
- Area: 5.0 square miles
- Population: 7,142 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 99645
- Latitude and Longitude: 61.6006° N, 149.1128° W
Location and History
Palmer is a small city in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, located about 42 miles northeast of Anchorage. The city was founded in 1935 as part of a New Deal relief program during the Great Depression, when the U.S. government resettled over 200 farming families from the Midwest to the Matanuska Valley to establish a new agricultural colony. The fertile valley quickly became known for its large crops, including world-record-sized vegetables, thanks to the long summer daylight hours. Palmer’s agricultural roots are still evident today, with farming playing a significant role in the local economy. The city’s downtown area features historic buildings from the 1930s, giving Palmer a unique charm and sense of history. Palmer also serves as the gateway to the surrounding wilderness, including the Chugach Mountains and the Talkeetna Mountains.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Palmer is served by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District, with Palmer High School being the main educational institution. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Alaska State Fairgrounds, where the annual Alaska State Fair is held. This event showcases local agriculture, crafts, and entertainment, and is famous for its giant vegetables. The Palmer Museum of History and Art provides insights into the city’s founding and development, with exhibits on the original colonists and the region’s agricultural heritage. The nearby Hatcher Pass is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring the historic Independence Mine State Historical Park. Palmer’s combination of rich history, agricultural significance, and access to outdoor recreation makes it a unique and welcoming community in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough.
Talkeetna
- Area: 42.9 square miles
- Population: 965 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 99676
- Latitude and Longitude: 62.3209° N, 150.1066° W
Location and History
Talkeetna is a small town located at the confluence of the Susitna, Chulitna, and Talkeetna Rivers in the northern part of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. The town was established in 1916 as a railroad construction camp during the building of the Alaska Railroad. Talkeetna quickly became a supply station and a hub for miners and trappers in the area. The town’s name is derived from the Dena’ina Athabascan word “K’dalkitnu,” meaning “river of plenty.” Today, Talkeetna is known as a gateway to Denali National Park and is a popular starting point for mountaineers attempting to climb Denali, North America’s highest peak. The town has preserved much of its historic charm, with log cabins, roadhouses, and general stores giving it a rustic, frontier atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Talkeetna is served by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District, with Talkeetna Elementary School providing education for local students. The town is home to several key landmarks, including the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum, which offers exhibits on the town’s railroad history, Native culture, and the local wildlife. The historic Talkeetna Roadhouse, built in 1917, remains a popular stop for travelers and offers a taste of the town’s history and hospitality. Another significant landmark is the Talkeetna Ranger Station, the starting point for climbers preparing to ascend Denali. The town’s unique location at the base of the Alaska Range makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for fishing, rafting, flightseeing, and hiking. Talkeetna’s combination of history, adventure, and scenic beauty makes it a vibrant and charming community in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough.
Houston
- Area: 23.5 square miles
- Population: 1,288 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 99694
- Latitude and Longitude: 61.6314° N, 149.8189° W
Location and History
Houston is a small city located along the Parks Highway, about 28 miles north of Anchorage, in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. The city was originally established as a station on the Alaska Railroad in the early 20th century and later developed as a residential community for those working in nearby Palmer, Wasilla, and Anchorage. Houston’s location near several lakes and rivers made it a popular spot for recreational cabins and fishing camps. The city was incorporated in 1966 and has grown as a quiet, rural community with a strong focus on outdoor activities. Houston’s proximity to both urban amenities and wilderness areas makes it an attractive location for those seeking a balance between city life and the great outdoors.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Houston is served by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District, with Houston Middle/High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several important landmarks, including the Little Susitna River, which is popular for fishing, kayaking, and rafting. The nearby Nancy Lake State Recreation Area offers opportunities for canoeing, hiking, and camping in a pristine natural setting. Houston’s community events, such as the annual Fourth of July Parade and fireworks display, reflect the town’s strong sense of community and rural charm. The city’s combination of scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and small-town atmosphere make Houston a unique and welcoming place in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough.
Willow
- Area: 690.3 square miles
- Population: 2,196 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 99688
- Latitude and Longitude: 61.7472° N, 150.0389° W
Location and History
Willow is a small, unincorporated community located along the Parks Highway, about 70 miles north of Anchorage, in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. The area was originally inhabited by the Dena’ina Athabascans, who used the region for hunting, fishing, and gathering. Willow became a mining and trapping area in the early 20th century, with the discovery of gold in nearby creeks. The town grew during the construction of the Alaska Railroad and later became a popular area for homesteaders and recreational cabin owners. Willow was selected as the potential site for Alaska’s state capital in the 1970s, though the move was never realized. Today, Willow is known as the official restart point of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Willow is served by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District, with Willow Elementary School providing education for local students. The community is home to several key landmarks, including the Willow Community Center, which hosts local events and serves as a gathering place for residents. The Willow Creek State Recreation Area is a popular spot for fishing, camping, and hiking, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and rivers. Another significant landmark is the Iditarod Trail, with Willow serving as the starting point for the race’s official restart each March, drawing mushers and spectators from around the world. The annual Willow Winter Carnival celebrates the community’s love of winter sports and outdoor activities with dog sled races, ice fishing, and snowshoeing. Willow’s combination of history, outdoor adventure, and community spirit make it a vibrant and welcoming place in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough.
Map of Cities in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK
