Housing in Fairbanks
Unfortunately, our program is not able to provide housing for members. However, we do try to guide and advise incoming VISTAs as best we can.
- Most VISTAs choose to live in an apartment or house near town due to it's convenient proximity to work sites, grocery stores, and more. If moving to Fairbanks without a car, living in town is recommended.
- Dry cabins are also an option. A dry cabin has no running water or sewer system but has an outhouse. The rent is cheaper but a person does have to haul their own water for dishes, cooking, etc. and find a place to do laundry and shower. If living in a dry cabin, a car is highly recommended.
- North Pole, AK is located ~15 miles southeast of Fairbanks with a 20 minute commute. Buses and bike paths do extend into the town but a car is highly recommended.
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Or search Craigslist:
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HUD also has useful info:
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Transportation in Fairbanks
Many VISTAs without a car utilize public transportation. Check out the MACS Transit Bus System to learn about bus routes all around town!
If choosing to bring a car, there's certain things to consider for proper maintenance and winterization of your vehicle.
What you’ll need:
It’s better to get your car winterized once you arrive to Fairbanks as opposed to in the lower 48 before driving up. This will ensure it’s done properly to fully prepare you for winter driving!
If choosing to bring a car, there's certain things to consider for proper maintenance and winterization of your vehicle.
What you’ll need:
- Winter tires for better traction. These should be put on in late September/early October and taken off in May.
- Block engine heater to keep transmission fluids and engine oils from freezing or thickening. This allows you to plug in your car when it’s parked for long periods in especially cold temperatures. Make sure a battery heater, or trickle charger, is also included.
- Get an oil change to make sure your car has anti-freeze oil rated down to -50 degrees.
- Consider updating to an auto remote start system. This will allow you to press a button on the key and automatically start your car from inside, giving it time to heat up properly before you go outside to drive it.
- Be prepared with a blanket, flashlight, car battery charger, extra extension cord to plug the car in, first aid kit, etc. to keep in your car… just in case!
It’s better to get your car winterized once you arrive to Fairbanks as opposed to in the lower 48 before driving up. This will ensure it’s done properly to fully prepare you for winter driving!
