South Anchorage, Alaska Real Estate and Community Information

South Anchorage is known for its quality education and newer neighborhoods. As a section of Anchorage, South Anchorage residents appreciate many of the same shopping, dining and outdoor recreation opportunities as do Anchorage residents. Some South Anchorage real estate is located on the waterfront overlooking the Turnagain Arm, while other properties are nestled among the lush green spaces of the city.

There is an abundance of breathtaking scenery and plenty of outdoor opportunities to engage in, but the Anchorage area also offers rich art, music and cultural attractions like the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts events including dance and symphony performances and holiday celebrations. The Alaska Native Heritage Center offers educational programs, heritage gifts and plenty of exhibits to enjoy.

Shopping and Dining

There are many choices for shopping and dining within South Anchorage, including big box stores like Walmart, Target, Sports Authority, Sportsman’s Warehouse and much more. Specialty stores like Bell's Nursery and Gifts offers plants, trees, unique gifts and fine sweets from See's Candy. The Jewel Lake West Shopping Center is the southernmost mall in Anchorage, and is home to stores such as Carrs, the Great Alaska Tobacco Co, Paradise Tanning, Peking Wok, Starbucks and the Children's Dance Theatre.

The Diamond Center, located in South Anchorage, is the largest shopping area. With many of the top store and dining you're sure to check-off items from your list. The Diamond Center also boasts a Regal Cinema 9 movie theater, professional offices and more.

Muldoon is fast becoming the go-to place for shopping and is especially convenient for those living on the east side of town.

Dining options include upscale restaurants as well as smaller diners and coffee shops. These include the Midnight Sun Brewing Company, Little Italy, Thai House and more. O'Malley's On the Green is located at the Anchorage Golf Course and offers a panoramic view of the city for diners while they eat. The New York Bakery and Deli, IHOP, and the FireTap Alehouse are also all nearby.

Parks and Recreation

The Anchorage area is known for its abundant natural recreation and beautiful backcountry; most South Anchorage real estate is within short walking or driving distance of many trailheads, fishing spots and breathtaking scenic views. Residents in the area enjoy hiking, biking, skiing, snowshoeing and even snowmobiling. There are also plenty of recreational facilities in the area, including The Cage, which offers a batting cage that is fun for the whole family, and The Dome, which offers indoor football, basketball, baseball and softball activities. It is the largest air-supported structure found in North America.

There is plenty to do during inclement weather, such as enjoying the many attractions the Anchorage area has to offer. Anchorage is home to the Alaska Zoo, the Arctic Gymnastics Center, an extensive public library system, and For Fun Alaska, a giant play area featuring bouncy castles, mazes, obstacle courses and more. Residents and visitors can also enjoy the Imaginarium Science Discovery Center and the Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum.

Living

A large proportion of South Anchorage real estate is newer, making it attractive to many residents. Homes include small, medium and large single family homes, and some offer larger lots surrounded by secluded green spaces. There are also condos, duplexes and other types of lots available. Most residents work in and around South Anchorage in construction, hospitality and food service industries, although others commute the short drive into central Anchorage. Still others work from home as computer specialists, scientists and freelance designers.

The average cost of real estate in the area was around $267,000 in 2009. Because many South Anchorage homes are newer, these prices can increase. Unemployment in the area is lower than in the state of Alaska overall, and many residents enjoy steady work. Average temperatures range from lows of 15 degrees in the winter to over 60 degrees in the summer, and many say Anchorage's spring, summer and fall climates are similar to San Francisco's spring weather.

Schools, Health, Transportation

Schools in the South Anchorage real estate area include South Anchorage High School, which has about 1,700 students, most from Goldenview and Mears Middle Schools. There are also several private school options in the South Anchorage area, including the Grace Christian School, St. Elizabeth Catholic School and Anchorage Junior Academy. There are also many choices within Anchorage proper. Most of the colleges and universities in the city are located in northern Anchorage and include Alaska Pacific University, Charter College, University of Alaska, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and the Wayland Baptist University.

The Providence Alaska Medical Center is also located in central Anchorage but serves residents throughout the area. Sterling Assisted Living is located in South Anchorage. MyHealth Clinic is one of the southernmost health care clinics in the city, and is available to residents of South Anchorage. The city offers an extensive bus system that serves Anchorage as well as surrounding areas like Eagle Creek, Peters Creek and Chugiak. The Ted Stevens International Airport is within a short drive of South Anchorage as well.

If you are thinking about buying or selling a home, give us a call at (907) 441-7178 or send us an email to explore your options and to find out when is the best time for you to make a move.