Situated 45 miles from Anchorage, with a population of just over 8000 within the city limits, Wasilla is a world away! While it has rapidly grown over the years and hosts the bulk of the Mat-Su Valley’s shopping, Wasilla definitely still has much more of a small-town feel than Anchorage. The vast majority of regular purchases are available in Wasilla, with possibly an occasional trip to Anchorage needed.
Wasilla is surrounded on two sides by the Chugach and Talkeetna Ranges. It provides convenient access to fishing, hiking, hunting, and other outdoor activities. There are a number of local lakes and salmon streams, with world class Parks Highway fishing streams a relatively short drive away. Hatcher Pass is 30 minutes to the north, with world-class hiking in the summer, berry-picking in the fall, sledding/skiing/snowboarding in the winter, or just a spectacular drive through the mountains throughout part of the year.
Homes
2016 Market Snapshot – Current Market Summary Report – Wasilla
Wasilla features the bulk of the Mat-Su Valley’s home inventory. One-acre lots are typical, but larger parcels are definitely available, though they are in high demand. Prices tend to decrease slightly as you move further from the Anchorage commute. Most homes are from the 70’s or later, with a solid base of newer homes available (construction has consistently been on the rise), and many new construction options. Home styles vary considerably, with some “Alaskan” homes – chalets, rustic style, wood accents, and/or log homes – along with many “American traditional style” homes. The average price of all homes sold in Wasilla for 2016 was $269,456, with an average of 62 days on the market and 99% of list-to-sales price.
Parks and Recreation
There are several parks in Wasilla with lakes, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Most lakes in the area have public access.
Hatcher Pass has spectacular hiking.
Also, there is Independence Mine State Historical Park outside Wasilla city limits.
Off-road and ATV opportunities are extremely popular. Winter sports of snow machining (snowmobiling in the lower-48), ice fishing, downhill skiing (in Hatcher Pass or further south in the Anchorage/Girdwood areas), cross-country skiing, and sledding are close by. The area is covered by an extensive network of unmaintained trails, but be sure to do your research in order to avoid trespassing.
Dining and Shopping
The dining options in Wasilla are slowly expanding. Unless you want to find somewhere to eat after 10pm (you’d have to go to Palmer or Anchorage for that), you’ll have a number of options. Local favorites include Evangelo’s, Grape Tap, Crazy Moose Subs, Mat-Su Family Restaurant, and more.
Local Restaurant Reviews:
Trip Advisor
Yelp
Larger big box stores include Fred Meyer, Carrs, Walmart, Target, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Sportsman’s Warehouse, and Sears. There are a number of other local shopping and service options, including Three Bears and a host of smaller shopping options. Summertime brings the Wasilla Farmer’s Market and a number of roadside produce stands.