PCS to Eielson AFB or Fort Wainwright: The Complete Alaska Military Guide

What You Need to Know First: Eielson vs. Fort Wainwright

These are two separate installations located about 26 miles apart, both in the Fairbanks, Alaska area. They are not the same base, though families from both installations share much of the same community infrastructure.

• Eielson Air Force Base is located approximately 26 miles southeast of Fairbanks, near North Pole, Alaska. It’s home to the 354th Fighter Wing and serves as a major Pacific Air Forces installation. Notably, Eielson covers more than 63,000 acres and has the second-longest runway in America.
• Fort Wainwright is an Army installation on the eastern edge of Fairbanks. It’s home to the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division (Arctic Warriors). The installation serves approximately 11,000 soldiers and family members.

Both installations have their own housing, schools, and support services. Because Fairbanks is a relatively small community, the two bases share many resources, shopping options, and off-post neighborhoods.

⚠️ Critical Orders Fact: Alaska Is Treated as an Overseas Tour

This is one of the most important things to understand before your PCS. Most guides leave it out entirely. Alaska is a U.S. state — however, assignments to Eielson AFB, Fort Wainwright, and Fort Greely are treated as overseas tours. This applies specifically to PCS orders and entitlements.

What does this mean for your family?

• Concurrent travel is required for dependents. Your orders must specifically say “concurrent travel.” Additionally, each family member’s name must be listed on your orders. Verify this with your gaining unit and losing S1/MPF immediately upon receipt of orders.
• Tour lengths vary by branch. Additionally, some commands may temporarily suspend concurrent travel — always confirm the current policy with your gaining installation’s relocation office.
• BAH and COLA apply (not OHA). Alaska is a state, so you receive CONUS BAH rates plus Alaska COLA rather than OCONUS OHA. See the sections below for current rates.

Furthermore, contact your Airman & Family Readiness Center (Eielson) or Army Community Service (Fort Wainwright) as soon as orders arrive. You’ll need to understand your entitlements and start the housing application right away. Do not wait until 30 days before your report date.

2026 BAH Rates: Eielson AFB and Fort Wainwright

Both Eielson AFB and Fort Wainwright fall under the Fairbanks, AK BAH rate area. Alaska BAH rates are among the highest in the country, reflecting the elevated cost of housing. Additionally, Alaska COLA supplements BAH with approximately $700–$1,000 per month depending on pay grade and dependency status. That supplement is a critical budget factor — covered in the cost of living section below.

2026 Fairbanks, AK BAH Rates

Pay Grade	With Dependents	Without Dependents
E-4	$2,088	$1,605
E-5	$2,208	$1,758
E-6	$2,364	$1,908
E-7	$2,496	$2,016
E-8	$2,670	$2,166
E-9	$2,787	$2,268
O-1E	$2,208	$1,776
O-2E	$2,496	$2,016
O-3E	$2,793	$2,268
O-4	$3,009	$2,439
O-5	$3,375	$2,736
O-6	$3,801	$3,087

⚠️ Verify current rates at the DoD BAH calculator. Rates are updated annually each January.

For a deep dive on how BAH works and how to use it wisely during your PCS, see our 2026 BAH Rates Guide →

Housing at Eielson AFB

On-Post Housing (Eielson)

Eielson’s on-post family housing is owned and managed by Corvias Military Living. Corvias offers a variety of floor plans ranging from two to four bedrooms. Specifically, options include single-family homes, duplexes, and multiplexes across several on-base neighborhoods. Amenities include a bark park, ice skating rink, community garden, lawn care, and snow removal — all included.

Corvias Military Homes — Eielson Contact Information:

• Phone: (907) 302-2170 / (800) 785-5941
• Address: 2631 Wabash Avenue, Eielson AFB, AK 99702
• Unaccompanied Housing Office (E-4 and below): (907) 377-2727
• Military Housing Office (MHO): Contact before signing any lease or rental contract

Important note about utilities: On-post housing at Eielson typically includes utilities up to a baseline usage allowance. Therefore, living on-post makes strong financial sense at Eielson. Off-post utility costs — particularly heating — can consume a significant portion of BAH. Even though off-post houses may seem affordable, utility costs in Fairbanks are substantial. Research carefully before renting off-post.

Key things to know about Eielson on-post housing

• Carports and garages have plug-in electrical outlets standard for vehicle block heaters — essential at -40°F
• Pet policies apply; confirm breed and weight restrictions before signing your lease
• Contact the MHO immediately upon receiving orders, even if your report date is months away
• Wait lists exist by rank and unit; don’t assume availability

Childcare at Eielson

The Eielson Child Development Center (CDC) sits at 2449 French Creek Drive. It accepts children from 6 weeks to 5 years of age. Available programs include weekly care, drop-in care, and a preschool program. Reservations for drop-in care are first-come, first-served based on availability. Contact the CDC early — childcare availability in Fairbanks overall is limited, and wait lists are common.

Off-Post Housing (Near Eielson)

Most families living off-post near Eielson choose North Pole, Alaska. This small city sits about 2–9 miles from the main gate depending on the neighborhood. North Pole has a distinct small-town community feel and is popular with military families.

Off-post rental ranges near Eielson (2026 estimates)

Home Type	Monthly Rent Range
2BR apartment/townhome	$1,200 – $1,700
3BR house	$1,500 – $2,200
4BR house	$1,800 – $2,600
Single-wide mobile home	$900 – $1,400

Neighborhoods popular with Eielson families

• North Pole — Closest to Eielson, family-friendly, small-town Alaska feel, Christmas-themed community (Santa Claus House is a local landmark), strong military community presence
• Aurora Subdivision (Eielson area) — Newer homes, quiet, popular with dual-military families who need proximity to both Eielson and Fort Wainwright
• Moose Creek — More rural, more space, longer commute
• Salcha — Very rural, good for families who want land and privacy

If you’re considering a VA Home Loan for a purchase in Alaska, our team can connect you with a lender who knows the Alaska market. Learn about VA Home Loans →

Housing at Fort Wainwright

On-Post Housing (Fort Wainwright)

Fort Wainwright’s on-post family housing is owned and managed by North Haven Communities. Homes range from two to five bedrooms and feature modern finishes, fenced yards, and open layouts. Additionally, North Haven amenities include a community center with an indoor playground, fitness centers, pools, and walking trails. A community garden and year-round resident events round out the program. The community is also open to DoD civilian employees, retirees, and reservists.

North Haven Communities — Fort Wainwright Contact Information:

• Leasing Office: 4268 Neely Road, Fort Wainwright, AK 99703
• Website: fw.nhcalaska.com
• Phone: (907) 353-1112 (verify before calling)

Reality check on wait times: On-post housing at Fort Wainwright has a wait list of approximately 6–12 months for most family home types. Apply the day you receive orders — not 30 days before you report. Most families plan to live off-post initially and transition to on-post housing when a unit becomes available.

On-post Fort Wainwright highlights

• Arctic Light Elementary School is located right on-post — convenient for families in North Haven housing
• Two Child Development Centers (CDCs) on-post; however, childcare wait lists run 6–12 months. Get on the list early — this is not an exaggeration.
• Plug-in electrical outlets at parking spots are standard throughout the installation
• Pet policy allows two domesticated animals (dogs/cats); breed restrictions apply — confirm before signing your lease
• A self-help center (Bldg. 3022 Montgomery Rd.) is available for resident use

Off-Post Housing (Near Fort Wainwright)

Fort Wainwright sits on the east side of Fairbanks, giving families easy access to the city’s retail corridor, restaurants, and services. Several neighborhoods work well for Wainwright families, though some areas require more research than others.

Neighborhood guide for Fort Wainwright families

• College/University West — Near the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF), walkable, educated community vibe, good elementary school options; median 3BR rent approximately $1,900/month
• North Pole — 15–20 minute commute, small-town feel, family-friendly, affordable ($1,700/month for 3BR), also popular with dual-military families shared between both installations
• Hamilton Acres / Aurora Drive area — Established single-family home neighborhoods on the east side of Fairbanks, close to the main gate
• Airport Way corridor — Convenient to services and retail, moderate commute
• Badger Road corridor — Between Fairbanks and Eielson; useful for dual-military families but higher traffic and aging apartments make it less ideal for families
• ⚠️ Downtown Fairbanks — Not recommended for families. Fairbanks has Alaska’s highest property crime rate, and downtown specifically has elevated issues with property crime, substance abuse, and transient population. Families consistently advise newcomers to avoid the downtown core for housing.

Off-post rental ranges near Fort Wainwright (2026 estimates)

Home Type	Monthly Rent Range
2BR apartment	$1,100 – $1,600
3BR house	$1,400 – $2,100
4BR house	$1,700 – $2,500

Buying a home in Fairbanks? Connect with a VA-savvy real estate agent in Alaska →

Schools in the Fairbanks Area

Military families at Eielson and Fort Wainwright have access to on-post schools and the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District (FNSBSD) for off-post families. Notably, Eielson does not use DoDEA schools. Instead, all on-post schools at Eielson are part of FNSBSD — even though they’re physically located on base.

On-Base Schools at Eielson AFB (FNSBSD)

There are three schools located on Eielson AFB, all operated by the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District:

• Anderson Elementary — Grades K–2, on-post at Eielson
• Crawford Elementary — Grades 3–6, on-post at Eielson
• Ben Eielson Jr/Sr High School — Grades 7–12, on-post at Eielson

Children living in base housing automatically attend these on-post schools. Students living off-post may request to attend on-base schools, though parents must provide transportation in that case. Additionally, the district provides bus transportation for students living more than 1.5 miles from an off-base public school.

On-Base School at Fort Wainwright (FNSBSD)

• Arctic Light Elementary School — Located right on-post at Fort Wainwright; serves Fort Wainwright families in grades K–5

Middle school and high school students at Fort Wainwright attend FNSBSD schools off-post.

Fairbanks North Star Borough School District (FNSBSD) — Off-Post

Families living off-post near either installation enroll in FNSBSD. The district serves Fairbanks, North Pole, and surrounding communities. School quality ranges generally from 5–7 out of 10 — functional and military-family-experienced, though not exceptional. Alaska schools broadly face funding challenges and teacher retention issues. However, schools in the University area near UAF tend to perform slightly better, given the educated parent community in that neighborhood.

School	Type	Grades	Notes
Hutchison High School	Public	9–12	Best academic options; AP classes; military-friendly
North Pole High School	Public	9–12	Small school, tight-knit community
Lathrop High School	Public	9–12	Large, diverse; near Fort Wainwright
Ryan Middle School	Public	6–8	Near UAF, good teachers
North Pole Middle School	Public	6–8	Small class sizes
Denali Elementary	Public	K–5	University area; strong academics
North Pole Elementary	Public	K–5	Military-friendly; small-town feel
Effie Kokrine Charter School	Charter	K–12	Alaska Native focus; lottery-based enrollment

FNSBSD Contact: (907) 452-2000 | www.k12northstar.org

FNSBSD has military liaison support. Specifically, contact the district’s student services office for help with transcript transfers and placement. This is especially important for students with IEPs or special needs. Also consider consulting our PCS Binder Checklist for a school records transfer checklist.

Cost of Living in Fairbanks, Alaska

This is where you need to set realistic expectations. Fairbanks has a significantly higher cost of living than most CONUS assignments. Overall, it runs approximately 45% higher than the national average. Housing specifically sits about 50% above the national average. The good news: Alaska COLA supplements your BAH by approximately $700–$1,000 per month depending on rank and dependency status. Alaska also has no state income tax.

Monthly Budget Snapshot: E-5 with Two Kids

Expense	Estimated Monthly Cost
3BR rent off-post	$1,800
Utilities (winter — heating oil, electric, water)	$400
Groceries	$1,200
Childcare (if not on CDC wait list)	$1,200
Fuel	$200
Internet (GCI or Alaska Communications)	$100
Winter total (before COLA)	~$4,900/month
Alaska COLA offset	$700–$1,000/month

Consequently, budgeting carefully before you arrive is essential. COLA is not optional income — it’s a planned offset for Alaska’s higher costs. Without it, Fairbanks would be unaffordable on most enlisted pay grades.

Groceries

Expect to pay 40–50% more for groceries than you would in the continental United States. Everything must be transported to interior Alaska, and that cost flows directly to consumers.

• Fred Meyer (Kroger affiliate) — Main full-service grocery chain in Fairbanks; two locations
• Walmart Supercenter — Located on Airport Way; typically the most affordable civilian grocery option
• Safeway — Present in Fairbanks; slightly higher prices than Walmart
• Fort Wainwright Commissary — Military families rate it highly; saves approximately 10–15% over civilian stores even at Alaska prices. Shop early for best produce selection.

⚠️ Note: There is no Costco or Sam’s Club in Fairbanks. The nearest Costco is in Anchorage, approximately 360 miles south. Many families order shelf-stable goods through Amazon Subscribe & Save to manage grocery costs. Additionally, stock up on non-perishables — winter storms can delay shipments.

Fuel

Fuel prices in Fairbanks typically run $0.50–$1.00+ higher per gallon than the national average, with diesel even higher. In winter, you’ll also be idling and warming up your vehicle more, which significantly increases fuel consumption and costs.

Utilities and Heating

This is the big one. Heating in Fairbanks can be one of your largest monthly expenses off-post.

• Most off-post homes heat with fuel oil or natural gas
• Heating oil runs approximately $3–$5 per gallon; electric runs $250–$400 per month in winter
• Average annual heating costs for a 3BR home can range from $3,000–$6,000+ depending on the home’s efficiency and winter severity
• Fairbanks has some of the coldest recorded temperatures in any U.S. city — temperatures of -40°F or colder are not unusual in January and February
• On-post housing typically includes utilities up to a baseline allowance, making it a budget-friendly choice when available

Internet and Cell Service

GCI and AT&T are the primary internet and cell providers in Fairbanks. Coverage is solid in the city and on both installations. However, remote areas outside Fairbanks have limited options. Starlink is popular with families in rural areas near both installations.

Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)

Here’s something most PCS guides don’t mention: if you establish Alaska residency, you and your dependents may be eligible for the Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend. This is an annual payment from the state’s oil revenue fund. In recent years, it has ranged from approximately $1,300–$2,000+ per person. Additionally, Alaska has no state income tax — a significant benefit for higher-earning service members and military spouses.

Military members have specific rules for PFD eligibility. Consult your Fort Wainwright JAG office or Eielson legal office before applying. Maintaining another state’s domicile for tax purposes may affect your eligibility.

Spouse Employment in Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a small city of approximately 32,000 people with a limited private-sector job market. The main employers include Fort Wainwright, Eielson AFB, and the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Oil and gas support services, state and federal government, and healthcare round out the options. Consequently, spouses used to large suburban job markets may find fewer opportunities here.

The most successful strategy many military spouses use in Fairbanks is remote work. Internet is reliable in most areas — GCI fiber is widely available — and remote work avoids the cold-weather commute entirely. Additionally, Military Spouse Preference (MSP) applies to NAF jobs at both Fort Wainwright and Eielson. Because there are two installations 26 miles apart, dual-base job opportunities are broader than at a typical single-installation community. Check both installations’ HR offices when you arrive.

Winter in Fairbanks: What Military Families Need to Know

You cannot PCS to Fairbanks without being mentally and practically prepared for winter. Moreover, the preparation isn’t difficult. It’s simply different from anything you’ve experienced at most other duty stations.

Temperatures and Daylight

• Winter temperatures regularly reach -20°F to -40°F; -50°F is possible during cold snaps
• December 21 (winter solstice): Fairbanks gets approximately 3 hours and 42 minutes of daylight
• Summer solstice: Nearly 22 hours of daylight — “midnight sun” is real, beautiful, and disorienting
• Many families invest in blackout curtains for summer and full-spectrum light therapy lamps for winter
• Winter runs October through April; approximately 65 inches of snow falls from October through December alone

Winterizing Your Vehicle

This is not optional. You must winterize your vehicle properly in Fairbanks:

• Block heater — All vehicles should have one. Most parking spots on-post and at businesses have plug-in outlets; use them every night
• Remote starter — Widely considered essential by Fairbanks military families; start your car 15–30 minutes before you leave
• Battery — Replace older batteries before winter; cold kills weak batteries instantly
• Oil — Use the correct cold-weather grade oil for your vehicle
• Winter/studded tires — Studded tires are legal in Alaska and highly recommended
• Emergency kit — Keep blankets, hand warmers, jumper cables, and a flashlight in your vehicle at all times

⚠️ Important: Your car will not start at -40°F without a block heater if left unplugged overnight. This is not an exaggeration. Have a plan.

Cold-Weather Gear Budget

Budget for a significant cold-weather gear investment before you arrive — not after:

• Extreme cold-weather (ECW) clothing for every family member
• Insulated, waterproof boots rated to -40°F or colder (Baffin, Sorel, and Muck Boot are popular brands among Fairbanks military families)
• Layering systems for kids — schools in Fairbanks hold outdoor recess unless temperatures reach approximately -20°F to -30°F
• Face coverings, balaclavas, and quality mittens (not just gloves)

Budget estimate for a family of four: $500–$1,500 depending on what you already own. Order before you arrive — selection in Fairbanks is more limited than in major CONUS cities.

Things to Do in Fairbanks

This is where Fairbanks consistently surprises military families. The outdoor recreation opportunities here are genuinely world-class, and MWR at both installations makes accessing them significantly more affordable.

Winter Activities

• Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) — Fairbanks is one of the best places on Earth to see the aurora. Peak season is September–March. The further you get from city lights, the better the viewing.
• Chena Hot Springs — A geothermal hot springs resort about 60 miles from Fairbanks; enormously popular with military families for day trips and overnight stays
• Dog sledding — Multiple outfitters offer tours; learn to mush through local clubs
• Ice fishing — Extremely popular; many military families get into this within their first week
• Snowmobiling — Hundreds of miles of trails; rentals and guided tours available
• World Ice Art Championships — Held in Fairbanks every March; one of the most spectacular winter events in North America
• Moose Mountain Ski Area — Local ski area; Alyeska Resort (world-class) is about 4 hours south near Anchorage

Summer Activities

• Midnight sun hiking — You can literally hike at midnight in June and July
• Denali National Park — About 4.5 hours south; one of the most spectacular national parks in the United States
• Fishing — Salmon, pike, grayling; Alaska fishing is unlike anything available at most CONUS assignments
• Whitewater rafting — Nenana River and other rivers near Denali
• Gold panning — Fairbanks has a real gold mining history; several operations offer public panning

On-Post MWR (Both Installations)

MWR at both Eielson and Fort Wainwright is excellent and heavily discounted. Specifically, services include outdoor gear rentals (snowshoes, kayaks, camping equipment), hunting and fishing license assistance, and organized recreational trips. Both installations also have fitness centers, pools, bowling alleys, and movie theaters. Additionally, the Auto Skills Centers on both posts offer garage bays and tools for DIY vehicle maintenance — particularly useful for winterization projects.

Medical Care: TRICARE in Fairbanks

Bassett Army Community Hospital (Fort Wainwright)

Bassett Army Community Hospital is the primary military treatment facility for both Fort Wainwright and Eielson AFB families. It’s a full-service hospital with emergency care available 24/7.

• Phone: (907) 361-4000 (verify current hours with your branch’s TRICARE office)
• Address: 1060 Gaffney Road, Fort Wainwright, AK 99703
• Website: wainwright.tricare.mil
• Services: Primary care, OB/GYN, pediatrics, dental, mental health, pharmacy, emergency services

Eielson Medical Group (354th Medical Group)

• Phone: (907) 377-1846 (verify before calling)
• Provides primary care and some specialty services for Eielson-assigned personnel; Eielson families may be referred to Bassett for specialty care

Civilian TRICARE Network (Fairbanks)

Fairbanks has limited civilian TRICARE network coverage compared to most CONUS assignments. This is an important planning factor:

• Fairbanks Memorial Hospital — The main civilian hospital; accepts TRICARE; Level III Trauma Center
• Phone: (907) 452-8181
• Some specialties have long wait times or limited civilian providers in the network
• Mental health providers in particular can be limited — plan ahead and establish care early if your family needs ongoing mental health support
• Complex specialty cases may require medevac to Anchorage or Seattle; TRICARE covers this, but plan accordingly

If you’re managing a complex medical situation or need specific specialty care, discuss your PCS to Fairbanks with your current medical team and TRICARE case manager before your PCS date.

Getting to and Around Fairbanks

Driving the Alaska Highway (ALCAN)

Many families choose to drive to Alaska via the Alaska Highway. It’s a genuine bucket-list experience, but it requires planning:

• The Alaska Highway runs approximately 1,400 miles from Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Delta Junction, Alaska (near Fairbanks)
• Total drive from the Pacific Northwest: Typically 5–7 days minimum; 3,000–4,500+ miles depending on your origin
• The highway is paved but has frost heaves and road damage — plan for slower speeds, especially in spring
• Fuel: Gas stations can be 50–100 miles apart in some stretches; never let your tank drop below half
• Late spring through early fall is ideal driving season

For recommended ALCAN resources, visit The Milepost — the definitive Alaska Highway travel guide.

Shipping Your Vehicle

If you don’t drive the ALCAN, you can ship your POV through your PCS orders. The port for Alaska vehicle shipments is typically Tacoma, Washington or Anchorage, Alaska. Your TMO/transportation office will provide current specifics.

Flying to Fairbanks

Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) connects to Alaska Airlines and Delta, with routes through Anchorage and Seattle. This option is the fastest, but you’ll need to arrange vehicle shipping separately.

Weight and Household Goods Shipment

Alaska is a non-temporary storage eligible location. Consequently, some families opt to store a portion of their household goods CONUS rather than ship everything, especially for shorter assignments. Discuss your storage options with your transportation office. Items most families want shipped: cold-weather gear, vehicles (or make them ship-ready), and any outdoor recreation equipment. One caution: electronics and some furniture can be damaged by extreme cold if stored in unheated spaces off-post.

See our DITY/PPM Move Guide for whether a partial or full DITY makes financial sense for an Alaska move.

PCS Pay and Entitlements for Alaska

COLA (Cost of Living Allowance)

Alaska is a CONUS COLA eligible location. This means you receive an additional monthly allowance — typically $700–$1,000 per month — to offset the higher cost of living. COLA rates vary by pay grade, dependency status, and zip code. Check your current rate at your finance office or through MilitaryOneSource.

TLE (Temporary Lodging Expense)

You’re authorized up to 10 days of TLE during a PCS (combined for both origin and destination). Alaska lodging is expensive; therefore, maximize your authorized TLE days at the destination, particularly while waiting for housing.

Alaska COLA vs. OHA: Important Clarification

Alaska installations pay CONUS BAH + COLA rather than OHA (which is for OCONUS locations). Alaska is a U.S. state, so it uses the CONUS BAH system. Many service members assume they’ll receive OCONUS OHA for Alaska — that is incorrect. Plan accordingly.

Key Resources for Your Eielson AFB / Fort Wainwright PCS

On-Installation

• Eielson AFB Official Website
• Fort Wainwright Official Website
• Bassett Army Community Hospital
• Corvias Military Homes (Eielson housing): (907) 302-2170
• North Haven Communities (Fort Wainwright housing): fw.nhcalaska.com

Community and Support

• MilitaryOneSource — Free counseling, relocation assistance, financial counseling
• Chena Hot Springs Resort — A Fairbanks military family staple
• Eielson AFB & Fort Wainwright PCS Pay-It-Forward® group

PCS Planning Tools

• Start your free PCS Plan →
• 2026 BAH Rates Guide →
• VA Home Loan Guide →
• DITY/PPM Move Guide →
• PCS Tax Write-Offs →
• PCS Binder Checklist →
• 2026 Military Pay Charts →

Key Takeaways

• Check your orders immediately for “concurrent travel.” Because Alaska is treated as an overseas tour, each dependent’s name must appear on your orders and concurrent travel must be authorized. Verify this with your gaining unit before your family makes any plans.
• Eielson and Fort Wainwright are two separate installations about 26 miles apart — make sure you know which one your orders are for, and contact the correct housing office right away (Corvias for Eielson; North Haven Communities for Fort Wainwright).
• On-post housing wait lists are real. Fort Wainwright wait lists run 6–12 months. Contact housing the day you receive orders, plan to live off-post initially, and avoid downtown Fairbanks for family housing.
• Alaska BAH is supplemented by COLA — approximately $700–$1,000/month. Without COLA, most Alaska assignments would be financially difficult. Run your numbers before you arrive and budget for heating costs, which can reach $3,000–$6,000/year off-post.
• Childcare wait lists are a critical planning factor. Both installations have CDCs, but wait lists run 6–12 months. Get on the list before you arrive if at all possible.
• Winter preparation is non-negotiable. Budget $500–$1,500 for cold-weather gear before you arrive, winterize your vehicle with a block heater and remote starter, and have an emergency car kit in every vehicle before November.
• The lifestyle payoff is real. Northern Lights, Denali, Chena Hot Springs, world-class fishing and hunting, and a tight-knit military community make Fairbanks one of the most memorable assignments in the entire military. Most families who go come back wishing they could stay longer.
• Start your PCS plan now — pcspayitforward.com/start-your-pcs-plan/

Information in this guide reflects 2026 data and was compiled from official military, DoD, and community sources. Always verify rates, phone numbers, and specific policies with your gaining installation before your PCS.