Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Housing Guide
📍 Anchorage, Alaska
Tips for Military Families
- Start your housing search early — on-base waitlists can be 6–12 months at popular bases.
- Check current BAH rates on the DTMO calculator before setting your housing budget — rates change annually.
- Join local military spouse Facebook groups for unfiltered rental reviews and landlord recommendations from families who've been there.
Everything you need to know about on-base and off-base housing options near Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. We cover BAH rates, popular neighborhoods for military families stationed in Anchorage, Alaska, commute times, and what to expect from base housing communities.
On-base: Aurora Military Housing — mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments; newer construction in many areas; waitlists vary by season and rank
Off-base: Eagle River, Anchorage (Southside), and Chugiak — median single-family homes $350k-$500k; Alaska's no-state-income-tax status helps offset higher housing costs
BAH: Anchorage BAH is among the highest in the Air Force; comfortably covers good housing options throughout the Anchorage Bowl
Top pick: Eagle River — 15-25 min commute, top-rated schools, mountain views, and a true Alaskan community feel; the go-to for families
Note: Alaskan winters are long and dark but the summer midnight sun is magical; blackout curtains are non-negotiable, and winter-prep your vehicles immediately
Key Resources for Housing
Trusted external resources for military families researching housing near Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.