PCS Fairbanks Military Relocation Guide

If you’ve received orders for a PCS to Eielson Air Force Base or a nearby installation like Fort Wainwright, you might be wondering, “Where do I start?” The good news is that a PCS to Fairbanks is a dream location for many, due to its spectacular natural beauty and opportunity for adventure. Once you get unpacked, you’re sure to fall in love with The Last Frontier. Take a look at our PCS Fairbanks Military Relocation Guide below to learn the basics of how to handle your PCS to Eielson AFB like a pro.

Eielson AFB Relocation Guide: Eielson AFB Basics

What should you know about your PCS to Eielson AFB? Eielson Air Force Base has a long history in Alaska, establishing itself in 1942. The base occupies 63,000 acres south east of Fairbanks, Alaska with 7,000 active duty, reserve, and guard members. Just 26 miles southeast of Fairbanks and 110 miles south of the arctic circle, Eielson has a unique location that is just 8 miles away from the North Pole! If you love the outdoors, the possibilities for fun activities are endless:

• Hiking
• Fishing
• Canoeing
• Dog mushing
• Cross country skiing
• Snowmobiling
• And more!

Eielson AFB Relocation Guide: Local Information

Many military servicemembers choose to live in nearby Fairbanks — known as the Golden Heart of Alaska. Expect around a 30 minute commute to Eielson Air Force Base in good weather with longer drives during poorer forecasts. Here are a few of the basics to know about your PCS to Fairbanks:

• Housing: The average price of a house in the area is $198,000 — significantly lower than the Alaska average of $233,000.
• Rental: Apartment rental is around $800 to $1,200 per month in the Fairbanks area.
• Climate: Fairbanks has a subarctic climate, which means short summers and long, cold winters. However, residents are treated to brilliant views of the Northern Lights.

Eielson AFB Relocation Guide: Moving

Though Alaska is a part of the United States, it is considered an OCONUS move — or “outside the contiguous United States.” If you have had other PCS moves in the lower 48, your PCS to Fairbanks might be a little different. Here are some considerations for your moving process:

• Moving Expenses: You’ll find information about both Defense Personal Property Program and Military OneSource on the Military OneSource website. This will connect you to resources, as well as travel allowance information about meals and lodging. You’ll also want to ensure you account costs for winterizing your vehicle, including investing in Blizzak Tires. We also recommend factoring a car emergency kit into your moving expenses.
• Family Support: MilSpouse connects family members with job opportunities in the local community, and media resources like Sesame Street for Military Families and Military Kids Connect can help your children prepare for the upcoming changes.
• Pets: If you have pets, look into airline requirements and quarantine restriction laws. Small pets are often carried on military flights, but availability is limited. The Military OneSource website offers support.

Prepare for Your PCS to Fairbanks with Chevrolet GMC Of Fairbanks

We’ve covered the basics in this Fairbanks military relocation guide, but one big factor is transportation. How will you get around your new hometown? Contact us at Chevrolet GMC Of Fairbanks to find out your lease and loan options, so you can navigate Eielson Airforce Base and Fairbanks like a local. We can help you discover all the must-see attractions and even get pre-approved for financing!