Juneau
About Juneau, Alaska
Welcome to Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural history. Nestled between the Gastineau Channel and the coastal mountains, Juneau offers residents and visitors alike a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife viewing opportunities, and historical sites. As a remote capital accessible only by sea or air, Juneau stands out with its picturesque downtown filled with quaint shops and seafood restaurants. The city is a hub for government activities and a gateway for major outdoor adventures, including glacier tours and whale watching excursions.
Average Home Prices in Juneau
The average home price in Juneau, AK, is approximately $474,862, reflecting its status as a highly desirable location. The housing market in Juneau offers a mix of traditional Alaskan homes and newer constructions, often featuring stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waters. This city's limited accessibility contributes to a higher cost of living but also to a unique, closely-knit community environment.
Based on calculations of home data from MLS and/or public records.
Veteran Benefits in Alaska
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Alaska Veterans and Pioneers Home
The Alaska Veterans and Pioneers Home in Palmer provides assisted living to older Alaskans with 75% of its 79 beds designated for veterans. Qualifying veterans, who are 65 or older and require assisted living care, are eligible for a per diem from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to help cover costs. Applicants must have resided in Alaska for one year or more prior to application.
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Veterans Land Discount/Purchase Preference
Under the Veterans Land Sale Preference, before any unoccupied residential land is offered to the general public at auction, a veteran has the exclusive opportunity to purchase the land at a restricted sale at fair appraised market value. The Veterans Land Discount program allows a 20% discount on state residential/recreational land purchases, usable once in a veteran's lifetime.
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Veterans Housing and Residential Loans
The Alaska Housing Finance Corp. administers the Veterans Mortgage Program, which offers low-interest rates and little to no down payment for qualified veterans and active duty military personnel. Qualified veterans can also receive a 1% interest rate reduction on the first $50,000 of the loan amount.
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Alaska State Tax Benefits
Veterans with a VA or military disability rating of 50% or more are exempt from property taxes on the first $150,000 of the assessed value of their residence. This exemption extends to the spouse if the veteran passes away and the spouse is at least 60 years old.
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Alaska Veteran Employment Benefits
State employment gives a preference to veterans, awarding additional points on examinations. Honorably discharged veterans are also eligible to buy up to five years of military service for state retirement benefits.
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Alaska Veteran Education Benefits
The surviving spouse or dependent of a service member who died in the line of duty or who was listed as a prisoner of war may be entitled to free tuition at the University of Alaska.
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Alaska Veteran Recreation Benefits
The Alaska Railroad offers a 20% discount to active-duty military, retirees, and their dependents. The Alaska Marine Highway System provides a reduced-fare pass for veterans with a service-connected disability. Free state park camping passes and free hunting and fishing licenses are available to disabled veterans.
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Death Gratuity
A death gratuity of $750 is paid to the surviving spouse or personal representative of a deceased veteran who was a resident of Alaska at the time of death, meeting specific service criteria.
Juneau Neighborhoods and Surrounding Areas
Juneau’s diverse neighborhoods offer residents a variety of lifestyle choices, from downtown living to more secluded, scenic locales. Here’s a detailed look at 20 vibrant areas:
- Downtown Juneau: The historic heart of the city, bustling with shops, cafes, and government buildings, perfect for those who enjoy a busy urban environment.
- Mendenhall Valley: Known for its suburban feel and proximity to the Mendenhall Glacier, this area is popular among families for its schools and community parks.
- Douglas: Located across the Gastineau Channel, Douglas offers a quieter, small-town feel with easy access to Juneau via a short bridge.
- Lemon Creek: An industrial and residential area known for its affordability and central location between downtown and the valley.
- Auke Bay: Featuring a marina and access to outdoor activities, Auke Bay is ideal for those who love boating and fishing.
- Thane: A scenic, primarily residential area south of downtown, known for its stunning waterfront homes and proximity to hiking trails.
- North Douglas: Offering expansive views and a mix of new and established homes, North Douglas is perfect for those seeking solitude within reach of city amenities.
- West Juneau: A residential area with easy access to downtown, known for its community feel and beautiful views across the channel to Douglas.
- Back Loop: Close to outdoor recreational opportunities, Back Loop appeals to those who prioritize access to nature and a quieter lifestyle.
- Tee Harbor: Located further out the road, Tee Harbor is secluded with waterfront properties and exceptional privacy.
- Fritz Cove: Known for its luxury homes and peaceful environment, Fritz Cove offers secluded living with stunning views.
- Glacier Highway: Stretching out from Juneau, this area offers a rural lifestyle with homes spread out along scenic drives.
- Switzer Village: A mobile home community offering some of the most affordable housing options in Juneau.
- Valley Ridge: A newer development in Mendenhall Valley, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and modern homes.
- Montana Creek: A mix of residential and recreational areas, with access to hiking and biking trails.
- Indian Cove: A small, secluded area located near Auke Bay, offering privacy and close proximity to the water.
- Amalga Harbor: A quiet, remote area with access to fishing and boating opportunities.
- Jordan Creek: A commercial area with many shopping options, also offering residential properties around the outskirts.
- Salmon Creek: A historic area with older homes and a mix of new developments, close to the hospital and local schools.
- Blueberry Hills: Offering elevated views of the city and channel, Blueberry Hills features spacious homes in a desirable setting.
Military Presence in Juneau
While Juneau does not have a large military base, its strategic location in Alaska contributes to a modest military presence, primarily consisting of Coast Guard and National Guard units. These forces play a crucial role in regional security and emergency response, especially given Juneau's remote accessibility.
Local Universities in Juneau
Juneau is home to several higher education institutions, fostering a strong academic community within the city:
- University of Alaska Southeast (UAS): Offering a range of programs from undergraduate to master’s degrees, UAS is particularly strong in marine biology, environmental science, and Alaska Native studies, reflecting the region's unique environment and cultural heritage.
VA Home Loans and MHS Lending in Juneau
VA Home Loans offer significant benefits for veterans looking to settle in Juneau, helping them to achieve homeownership in this unique market:
- No Down Payment Required: Eligible veterans can purchase homes without a down payment, which is a significant advantage in Juneau's competitive real estate market.
- Competitive Interest Rates: VA Loans often come with interest rates lower than those of many conventional loans, reducing the long-term cost of buying a home.
- No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): VA loans do not require PMI, which can significantly lower monthly mortgage payments for home buyers.
MHS Lending, with expertise in VA Loans, provides personalized service to help veterans maximize these benefits, ensuring a smoother home buying experience in Juneau.
