Locate off-base rentals and temporary lodging for a hassle-free experience near Eielson Air Force Base
Eielson AFB – Life Under the Northern Lights
Located just southeast of Fairbanks, Alaska, Eielson Air Force Base offers a truly unique experience; where breathtaking wilderness, crisp air, and the glow of the Northern Lights become part of daily life. It’s a posting unlike any other, combining adventure, tranquility, and tight-knit community spirit.
Living Near Fairbanks
The nearby towns of North Pole and Fairbanks provide a variety of off-base housing options, from modern apartments to cozy cabins tucked among pine trees. Residents enjoy local markets, family-owned cafés, and friendly neighbors who embrace the Alaskan lifestyle. Despite its remote setting, the area has all essentials covered; schools, healthcare, and shopping just a short drive away.
The Alaskan Climate
Eielson experiences long, snowy winters and mild, sunny summers. Winter temperatures can dip low, but locals quickly adapt with proper gear and a love for outdoor fun. Summer brings nearly endless daylight; perfect for fishing, hiking, and exploring the stunning Alaskan landscape.
Why Off-Base Rentals Appeal
Many Airmen and families prefer off-base living near Eielson AFB for the privacy, space, and sense of adventure it provides. It’s a lifestyle that offers both peace and discovery; a chance to truly live close to nature while staying connected to the mission.
Key Units of Eielson Air Force Base
355th Fighter Squadron
355th Fighter Squadron356th Fighter Squadron
356th Fighter Squadron168th Air Refueling Wing
168th Air Refueling Wing353d Combat Training Squadron
353d Combat Training SquadronBest Cities to Live Near Eielson Air Force Base
Best Schools Near Eielson Air Force Base
Anderson-Crawford Elementary School
DoDEA elementary school serving grades K–5 for military-connected students.
North Pole Middle School
Public middle school serving grades 6–8.
North Pole High School
Public high school serving grades 9–12.
Health Care Near Eielson Air Force Base
On-Base Clinic354th Medical Group – Eielson AFB Clinic
Provides outpatient services, preventive health, and pharmacy for TRICARE beneficiaries at Eielson AFB.
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HospitalFairbanks Memorial Hospital
Community hospital providing emergency, surgical, and specialty care for interior Alaska and Eielson families.
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Urgent CareTanana Valley Clinic – Urgent Care
Urgent care clinic for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries; accepts TRICARE.
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Healthcare Coverage
TRICARE Coverage
at Eielson Air Force Base
Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska is part of the TRICARE West Region, managed by Health Net Federal Services. The 354th Medical Group provides on-base medical services, with specialty and advanced care referred through the West Region network.
Tricare Prime
An HMO-style plan where you're assigned a Primary Care Manager. This is the most budget-friendly option, with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
Tricare Select
A PPO-style plan that gives you the flexibility to see any TRICARE-authorized provider—no referral needed. Perfect if you want more choice in your care.
Tricare for Life
Designed for beneficiaries with Medicare Parts A & B, this plan serves as wraparound coverage. It acts as a secondary payer to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Recreation & Leisure
Things to Do Around Eielson Air Force Base
Outdoor / Nature~17 mi (~25 min)Chena River State Recreation Area
Scenic recreation area with rivers, hot springs, hiking, and wildlife. Perfect for nature lovers.
Entertainment / Cultural~25 mi (~30 min)Tanana Valley State Fair
Seasonal fair featuring rides, food, and live entertainment. Fun for families and visitors.
Entertainment / Cultural~26 mi (~30 min)Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center
Cultural hub showcasing Alaskan heritage, history exhibits, and regional information for travelers.
Air Travel
Closest Airports to Eielson Air Force Base
On-Base Airfield0 milesEielson AFB Airfield
Used for USAF operational flights and Arctic training missions.
Regional / General Aviation Airport~25 milesFairbanks International Airport – GA Terminal
Supports private, charter, and small aircraft operations.
Commercial / International Airport~387 miTed Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC)
Major commercial airport serving domestic and limited international flights.
FAQ
Frequently Asked
Questions
01What is Eielson AFB known for?
Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska is home to the 354th Fighter Wing and hosts large-scale training exercises like Red Flag-Alaska. It’s known for Arctic readiness and its F-35A Lightning II fighters.
02Where can I stay near Eielson AFB?
Eielson Inn offers on-base lodging. Off base, you can stay in Fairbanks at hotels like Pike’s Waterfront Lodge or SpringHill Suites by Marriott.
03Which TRICARE region covers Eielson AFB?
Eielson AFB is part of the TRICARE West Region under Health Net Federal Services.
04What’s there to do near Eielson AFB?
Enjoy Northern Lights viewing in winter, or explore Chena Hot Springs and Denali National Park in the summer. Fairbanks also has great local culture and dining.
05What airports are close to Eielson AFB?
Fairbanks International Airport (25 mi) is the nearest major airport and provides connections to Anchorage and Seattle.
