Locate off-base rentals, temporary housing, and everything you need for a smooth experience.
Elmendorf Air Force Base: Alaska's Gateway to Adventure
Nestled against the Chugach Mountains in Anchorage, Alaska, Elmendorf Air Force Base (part of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson) offers a lifestyle unlike any other. It's where rugged wilderness meets a strong sense of mission — and where every day begins with breathtaking views.
Life Surrounded by Nature
Living near Elmendorf means being just minutes from mountain trails, lakes, and forests. The surrounding neighborhoods of Eagle River, Anchorage, and Chugiak offer cozy off-base rentals, family homes, and apartments that blend city convenience with outdoor beauty. Locals are welcoming, and the community is tightly knit — ideal for families and service members alike.
The Climate: Crisp, Cool, and Stunning
You'll experience true seasons here — snowy winters perfect for skiing, vibrant green summers with long daylight hours, and colorful fall scenery. While temperatures drop in winter, Alaskans embrace it with festivals, winter sports, and plenty of cozy indoor comforts.
A Base Like No Other
At Elmendorf, service meets the wild. It's more than a posting — it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Why Off-Base Living Feels Right
Many choose off-base housing near Elmendorf AFB for the extra space, privacy, and chance to experience authentic Alaskan life. It's a blend of adventure, tranquility, and community spirit.
Key Units of Elmendorf Air Force Base
673d Air Base Wing
673d Air Base Wing144th Airlift Squadron
144th Airlift Squadron90th Fighter Squadron
90th Fighter Squadron302nd Fighter Squadron
302nd Fighter SquadronBest Cities to Live Near Elmendorf Air Force Base
Best Schools Near Elmendorf Air Force Base
Clark Middle School
Public middle school in ASD district.
Bartlett High School
Public high school serving base & Anchorage NE area.
Health Care Near Elmendorf Air Force Base
TRICARE Facility673d Medical Group – JBER Hospital
The 673d Medical Group provides full-service hospital and outpatient care for all of Alaska's military community — serving JBER personnel and families with emergency, inpatient, and specialty services on base.
Visit TRICARE Portal
HospitalProvidence Alaska Medical Center
Providence Alaska Medical Center at 3200 Providence Dr, Anchorage is the largest civilian hospital in Alaska — offering regional referral trauma, surgery, and specialty services for Elmendorf AFB families.
Visit Website
Primary / Urgent Care ClinicCapstone Clinic – Eagle River
Capstone Clinic – Eagle River at 17025 Snowmobile Ln, Eagle River provides primary and urgent care for the JBER and Eagle River community — a convenient off-base clinic option for Elmendorf AFB families.
Visit Website
Healthcare Coverage
TRICARE Coverage
at Elmendorf Air Force Base
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska is part of the TRICARE West Region, managed by Health Net Federal Services. The 673d Medical Group provides extensive inpatient and outpatient services, with additional care referred to the West civilian 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 Elmendorf Air Force Base
Outdoor / Nature~40 milesAlaska Wildlife Conservation Center
View Alaska’s iconic wildlife like bears, moose, and bison up close. Perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Outdoor / Scenic / Adventure~15 milesKincaid Park
Hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting in a beautiful park with panoramic views of the coast and mountains.
Cultural / Educational~15 milesAnchorage Museum
Explore Alaska’s art, history, and culture with interactive exhibits. Great for families and culture enthusiasts.
Air Travel
Closest Airports to Elmendorf Air Force Base
On-Base AirfieldOn Base · 0 miles
Regional / Seaplane Airport~4 milesLake Hood Seaplane Base
Supports floatplanes, private, and charter aircraft.
Commercial / International Airport~5 milesTed Stevens Anchorage International Airport
Major commercial and cargo airport, domestic and international flights.
FAQ
Frequently Asked
Questions
01What is the main mission of Elmendorf AFB?
Elmendorf Air Force Base, now part of Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, provides air defense, combat readiness, and support for Arctic operations.
02What are the best lodging options near Elmendorf AFB?
On-base lodging is available at the Arctic Warrior Inn. Nearby hotels include SpringHill Suites Anchorage Midtown and Hilton Anchorage, both within 15 minutes.
03What TRICARE region covers Elmendorf AFB?
Elmendorf AFB is part of the TRICARE West Region, managed by Health Net Federal Services. The 673d Medical Group provides full-service healthcare for personnel and families.
04What are the top things to do around Elmendorf AFB?
Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, hike Flattop Mountain, or enjoy wildlife viewing along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.
05What airports are closest to Elmendorf AFB?
On-base: Elmendorf AFB Airfield (military). Nearby: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (8 mi).
