Looking to retire somewhere peaceful, scenic, and far from the chaos of the Lower 48? Alaska might not be the first place most people think of when they picture retirement—but maybe it should be. According to new 2025 data, several small Alaskan towns top the charts for livability, quietness, and quality of life for older adults. Each town on this list earned a high Overall Retirement Score (ORS), a composite metric that factors in things like noise levels, walkability, car access, cultural amenities, and more.
If you’re dreaming of fresh air, wide open spaces, and a slower pace of life, this list is for you. From coastal fishing communities to remote woodland outposts, these are the 15 most retiree-friendly places in Alaska this year—ranked in descending order.
15. Ester – Very Quiet but Lacks Walkability
Ester is a quirky little community located just west of Fairbanks. Once a gold mining town, it’s now home to artists, off-grid enthusiasts, and folks looking for peace and privacy. While it’s close enough to Fairbanks for healthcare and grocery trips, Ester has kept its independent, frontier-town vibe.
For retirees who want true stillness and don’t mind hopping in the car to get around, Ester offers exactly that. It’s a great fit if you value space, solitude, and the kind of creative spirit that thrives far from big city distractions.
Ester – ORS 88.47
- Overall Retirement Score: 88.47
- Quietness: 84.17
- Walkability: 0.61
- Cultural amenities: 36.53
- Vibrancy: 1.38
- Car-Friendliness: 76.29
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Ester’s high ORS is largely driven by its quietness and ease of driving. However, its extremely low walkability and lack of transit options make it less practical for retirees who prefer to stay on foot or use public transport. That said, the strong car-friendliness and modest cultural amenities help balance things out for those comfortable living semi-rural lifestyles.
14. Sterling – Peace and Privacy in the Kenai Peninsula
Situated along the Sterling Highway on the Kenai Peninsula, Sterling is a laid-back residential area surrounded by rivers, forests, and excellent fishing spots. It’s less developed than some neighboring towns, but that’s exactly the appeal for many older adults looking to downshift.
Retirees here enjoy access to nearby Soldotna for shopping and medical care, while still being able to come home to a tranquil, low-traffic setting. The trade-off? You’ll need a car for nearly everything—but the serene atmosphere more than makes up for it.
Sterling – ORS 88.58
- Overall Retirement Score: 88.58
- Quietness: 96.13
- Walkability: 0.51
- Cultural amenities: 42.41
- Vibrancy: 2.77
- Car-Friendliness: 64.67
- Transit-Friendliness: 11.52
Sterling scores extremely well for quietness, which is a big draw for many retirees. Cultural offerings are modest but respectable given the town’s small size. As with most rural Alaska towns, walking isn’t really an option—though limited transit and decent car-friendliness help make it manageable for those with personal transportation.
13. Salcha – Deep in the Wilderness with Strong Car Access
Salcha is a remote, unincorporated community southeast of Fairbanks, tucked between the Tanana River and the Alaska Range. It’s rugged and rural, but ideal for retirees who want an off-grid or semi-off-grid lifestyle without being completely isolated from services.
The area boasts majestic views, opportunities for subsistence living, and a tight-knit, independent community. There’s no walkable downtown or public transit—but those looking for a quiet, self-reliant retirement will find a lot to love here.
Salcha – ORS 89.33
- Overall Retirement Score: 89.33
- Quietness: 99.35
- Walkability: 1.85
- Cultural amenities: 57.08
- Vibrancy: 0.30
- Car-Friendliness: 90.16
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Salcha’s extremely high quietness and car-friendliness ratings push its ORS above 89. While it lacks walkability and public transport entirely, retirees who value independence, outdoor living, and low noise will find it a strong candidate for peaceful retirement living.
12. Cordova – Scenic and Cultural, but Not Very Walkable
Cordova sits on Prince William Sound, accessible only by boat or plane, which gives it an exclusive and tranquil charm. It’s a working fishing town with a rich history and a strong sense of community. The area is also incredibly scenic, backed by mountains and flanked by water.
While the town doesn’t score high for walkability or transit, it does offer a mix of cultural opportunities and natural beauty, making it ideal for retirees who don’t mind slower logistics in exchange for breathtaking views and close-knit living.
Cordova – ORS 90.15
- Overall Retirement Score: 90.15
- Quietness: 90.88
- Walkability: 4.21
- Cultural amenities: 46.58
- Vibrancy: 4.10
- Car-Friendliness: 66.67
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Cordova scores well in quietness and cultural amenities, helping push its ORS into the 90s. While walkability is limited and transit options nonexistent, many retirees find the town’s scenery and lifestyle rewarding enough to offset the challenges of getting around.
11. Seldovia – Remote, Calm, and Surprisingly Accessible
Seldovia is a tiny, picturesque town across the bay from Homer, reachable by ferry or small plane. It feels like stepping back in time—no big-box stores, no traffic, and no rush. For retirees craving quiet coastal living and a strong sense of community, it’s a hidden favorite.
The town offers art galleries, local events, and a small-town vibe that makes social connections easy. While services are limited, the isolation is part of the appeal for many older adults seeking peace and personal space.
Seldovia – ORS 90.62
- Overall Retirement Score: 90.62
- Quietness: 94.89
- Walkability: 2.96
- Cultural amenities: 46.65
- Vibrancy: 1.06
- Car-Friendliness: 43.01
- Transit-Friendliness: 21.40
Seldovia scores especially well on quietness and cultural amenities, giving it strong appeal for retiring Alaskans. It doesn’t offer high car access, but surprisingly decent transit options help balance things out, especially for a town of its size and remoteness.
10. Homer – Artsy, Accessible, and Full of Character
Homer is one of Alaska’s best-known coastal towns, perched at the end of the Sterling Highway. It’s a cultural hub with an active arts scene, farmers markets, and a beautiful bayfront promenade. Known as “The Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” Homer combines small-town charm with unexpected amenities.
For retirees, it offers a rare mix: access to healthcare, walkable spots near town, vibrant community events, and scenic views—all without the big-city pace. While it’s a bit livelier than some towns on this list, many older adults appreciate the stimulation and social opportunities.
Homer – ORS 91.29
- Overall Retirement Score: 91.29
- Quietness: 79.60
- Walkability: 6.19
- Cultural amenities: 53.36
- Vibrancy: 15.66
- Car-Friendliness: 67.44
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Homer’s cultural richness and moderate walkability help balance its slightly lower quietness rating. Retirees who enjoy having activities, art, and a bustling harbor nearby will find this town ideal. Its high vibrancy score makes it one of the liveliest entries on this list, yet still ranks among the most retiree-friendly places in the state.
9. Seward – Mountain Views and Maritime Charm
Nestled between Resurrection Bay and towering mountains, Seward is one of Alaska’s most scenic towns. It’s a popular summer destination, but quieter the rest of the year—perfect for retirees who don’t mind a bit of seasonal buzz. The town also has good road access and is home to healthcare clinics, grocery stores, and an active senior community.
Beyond the basics, Seward has a growing cultural scene, from museums and libraries to outdoor art. For those looking for a balance of nature, access, and things to do, it’s a strong contender on this list.
Seward – ORS 92.13
- Overall Retirement Score: 92.13
- Quietness: 84.92
- Walkability: 6.34
- Cultural amenities: 50.56
- Vibrancy: 1.61
- Car-Friendliness: 65.24
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Seward’s ORS reflects its balance of quiet, culture, and moderate walkability. The town’s high access scores for drivers and quality local amenities make it practical for older residents. While transit is lacking, the compact nature of town helps offset that for residents who prefer short car trips or walking on flatter areas.
8. Petersburg – A Picturesque Fishing Town with a Cozy Feel
Located on Mitkof Island in Southeast Alaska, Petersburg is known for its Scandinavian heritage and colorful fishing fleet. It’s not a tourist magnet, which keeps the pace slow and the community tightly knit. With its charming downtown, festivals, and arts groups, it offers a rich cultural life for a town its size.
Petersburg is particularly appealing for retirees who want a peaceful coastal lifestyle with just enough activity to keep things interesting. Services are available locally, and the town’s island setting keeps things quiet but not disconnected.
Petersburg – ORS 92.25
- Overall Retirement Score: 92.25
- Quietness: 95.64
- Walkability: 13.50
- Cultural amenities: 51.64
- Vibrancy: 9.96
- Car-Friendliness: 58.74
- Transit-Friendliness: 18.74
Petersburg scores well across the board, particularly for quietness and walkability—an unusual combo in Alaska. It also has solid cultural offerings and some public transit, giving retirees more flexibility. This well-rounded profile explains its strong position in the ORS rankings.
7. Gustavus – Hoonah – Remote, Scenic, and Surprisingly Well-Connected
This dual-region entry represents two small communities tucked into Southeast Alaska’s wilderness: Gustavus and Hoonah. Gustavus serves as a gateway to Glacier Bay National Park, while Hoonah is a Tlingit village with deep cultural roots. Both are quiet, close to nature, and home to strong community ties.
They’re ideal for retirees looking for a meaningful connection to the land and culture, with surprisingly decent infrastructure for remote areas. While isolated geographically, these towns offer a deeper sense of place that appeals to many older Alaskans.
Gustavus – Hoonah – ORS 93.21
- Overall Retirement Score: 93.21
- Quietness: 97.74
- Walkability: 5.23
- Cultural amenities: 38.08
- Vibrancy: 3.15
- Car-Friendliness: 35.76
- Transit-Friendliness: 24.59
This region’s high quiet score and respectable walkability push it high on the list, despite lower car-friendliness. Cultural connections and better-than-expected transit access support retirees who want to be engaged and mobile without relying heavily on personal vehicles.
6. Thorne Bay – Kake – Small-Town Simplicity with Deep Roots
Thorne Bay and Kake are two small communities located on Prince of Wales Island and Kupreanof Island, respectively. These towns are remote, quiet, and rich in Indigenous history and traditions. Life here is slower, with an emphasis on nature, subsistence living, and interdependence among neighbors.
For retirees who value privacy, simplicity, and cultural depth over convenience, these towns offer a retirement experience that’s grounded and rewarding. Services are minimal, but community bonds and natural surroundings make up for it.
Thorne Bay – Kake – ORS 93.41
- Overall Retirement Score: 93.41
- Quietness: 94.60
- Walkability: 1.55
- Cultural amenities: 21.97
- Vibrancy: 0.61
- Car-Friendliness: 51.44
- Transit-Friendliness: 16.70
While walkability and cultural offerings are low, Thorne Bay and Kake stand out for their quiet and simplicity. The moderate car and transit scores help support basic needs, and the slower pace makes these communities an attractive fit for self-reliant retirees.
5. Cooper Landing – Hope – A Nature-Filled Retirement with Culture
Cooper Landing and Hope are two small communities nestled in the Kenai Mountains, not far from the famed Kenai River. They’re known for fishing, hiking, and breathtaking scenery—and they stay relatively peaceful even in summer. Both offer a rustic Alaskan lifestyle with a dose of natural grandeur.
Despite their size, these towns have a surprising amount of cultural engagement, from artist retreats to historical sites. For retirees who want quiet living, stunning views, and proximity to nature without sacrificing intellectual stimulation, this pairing is a strong contender.
Cooper Landing – Hope – ORS 95.37
- Overall Retirement Score: 95.37
- Quietness: 95.10
- Walkability: 2.39
- Cultural amenities: 71.45
- Vibrancy: 4.00
- Car-Friendliness: 51.66
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
This region earns a standout ORS thanks to very high quietness and cultural amenities scores. While walkability and transit are limited, it’s a good fit for retirees with a vehicle who want both peace and things to do. The balance of solitude and enrichment is hard to beat here.
4. Healy – Cantwell – Gateway to Denali with Road Access
Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Healy and Cantwell sit near the entrance to Denali National Park, giving retirees access to one of the most iconic natural areas in the country. Despite being remote by most standards, these towns are connected by the George Parks Highway and offer some basic amenities.
Retirees here enjoy mountain views, wildlife, and a quiet pace of life. There’s a bit of tourism spillover in summer, but the rest of the year is calm and neighborly. It’s a good match for people who want frontier-style retirement with a touch of convenience.
Healy – Cantwell – ORS 95.53
- Overall Retirement Score: 95.53
- Quietness: 83.27
- Walkability: 1.88
- Cultural amenities: 31.74
- Vibrancy: 1.08
- Car-Friendliness: 71.51
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Healy and Cantwell score well for car-friendliness and quiet, with modest cultural options. These towns suit independent retirees who prioritize views and open space over walkability. The lack of transit is a factor, but manageable for those who drive.
3. Hyder – Tiny, Tranquil, and Tucked Away
Hyder is Alaska’s easternmost town, right on the border with British Columbia. It has a population under 100 and no local government—but it offers deep quiet, spectacular scenery, and the rare novelty of being an American town that’s functionally part of Canada.
This is retirement for true solitude-seekers. Services are limited and there’s almost no infrastructure, but for those wanting complete peace and a slower rhythm of life, Hyder delivers it in spades.
Hyder – ORS 95.83
- Overall Retirement Score: 95.83
- Quietness: 99.67
- Walkability: 5.60
- Cultural amenities: 56.15
- Vibrancy: 0.19
- Car-Friendliness: 13.14
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Hyder’s ORS is driven largely by its near-perfect quietness and decent cultural amenities despite its size. Car-friendliness is extremely low, and public transport doesn’t exist, but for retirees who want to unplug and live simply, it’s a rare find.
2. Wrangell – A Balanced Coastal Town with Natural Beauty
Located on Wrangell Island in Southeast Alaska, Wrangell is a peaceful fishing town with ferry access, historic sites, and strong Tlingit cultural ties. It’s not a tourist hotspot, which helps preserve its laid-back feel even in summer months.
Wrangell appeals to retirees who want a mix of maritime charm, forest trails, and a walkable town center. Healthcare and basic amenities are available, and the strong sense of community makes it an inviting place to settle down.
Wrangell – ORS 97.21
- Overall Retirement Score: 97.21
- Quietness: 91.92
- Walkability: 7.78
- Cultural amenities: 25.96
- Vibrancy: 11.00
- Car-Friendliness: 67.42
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Wrangell ranks high thanks to its quiet nature, moderate walkability, and decent car access. Cultural amenities are a bit lower, but vibrancy is stronger than most on the list. This makes it appealing for retirees who want low stress but not total stillness.
1. Haines – Top-Scoring Town with Year-Round Appeal
At the top of the list is Haines, a coastal town known for its mountain views, Bald Eagle Preserve, and thriving art community. It’s one of the few places in Alaska that offers a deep connection to nature and a healthy cultural life year-round.
Haines has a medical center, shops, libraries, and local events that keep things interesting without overwhelming the senses. For retirees, it’s the best of both worlds—quiet and accessible, with enough to do and people to meet.
Haines – ORS 98.98
- Overall Retirement Score: 98.98
- Quietness: 84.52
- Walkability: 4.05
- Cultural amenities: 47.78
- Vibrancy: 0.42
- Car-Friendliness: 52.72
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Haines takes the top spot with a well-rounded scorecard. Quietness, cultural life, and basic infrastructure all score well, making it an ideal fit for retirees who want quality of life without major compromises. It’s not bustling, but it’s never boring either.
