Wasilla, Alaska, located about 40 miles north of Anchorage in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, is the fourth largest city in the state with a population of 11,000. The city, originally established around an Alaska Railroad depot, became a commercial hub following the construction of the George Parks Highway, which connects Anchorage to Fairbanks. Wasilla is home to many workers in the mining, oil, and aviation industries, with a significant portion commuting to Anchorage for employment. The city is actively improving infrastructure, including airports, water and sewer facilities, and roads to support local job growth. Residential areas feature larger lots, ranging from half-acre to an acre, with new construction opportunities near Lake Lucille. Housing styles include traditional 2-story, ranch-style, and split-level homes, some built on airstrips for private planes. Wasilla offers various attractions, such as the annual Iditarod Dog Sled Race, the Tesoro Iron-Dog 2000 snowmobile race, and outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and off-roading. The city also has parks like Lucille Lake and Wasilla Lake, and the Menard Indoor Sports & Events Center for year-round recreation. Educational institutions include the highly rated Matanuska-Susitna Borough School System, Iditarod Elementary School, Wasilla Middle School, Wasilla High School, and Mat-Su Central School. Wasilla has a few dining options, grocery stores, and big box retailers, with more extensive shopping available in nearby Anchorage. Transportation includes the George Parks Highway, Glenn Highway, Alaska Railroad, Valley Transit commuter buses, and air travel from Wasilla Airport and Anchorage International Airport.
