Wasilla and Palmer are the two biggest towns in the Mat-Su Valley and only about 15 minutes apart, but they feel pretty different. If you're moving to the Valley or moving within it, here's how they compare.
The quick version
- Wasilla is the Valley's retail hub, with lots of newer subdivisions, plenty of lakes and quick access to the Parks Highway.
- Palmer is the historic farm town and borough seat, with a charming downtown, acreage, and big mountain views off the Glenn Highway.
Housing
Wasilla has the widest mix of homes in the Valley: newer construction, established neighborhoods close to shopping and schools, and lakefront homes on Wasilla Lake, Lake Lucille and the many smaller lakes nearby.
Palmer is known for colony-era farm homes, hobby farms, horse property and acreage, along with neighborhoods near downtown. If you want room for animals, a big garden or a shop, Palmer is worth a close look.
Lifestyle
Wasilla offers the most shopping, restaurants and services in the Valley. Palmer has a slower, small-town pace, a walkable downtown, and the Alaska State Fair every August. Both put you close to Hatcher Pass for hiking, skiing and berry picking.
Commuting
If you'll commute toward Anchorage or JBER, both towns work. Palmer sits right on the Glenn Highway, and Wasilla connects to it via the Parks Highway. The difference usually comes down to which side of town you live on and where you're headed. Test-drive your commute during rush hour before you commit.
Weather
Palmer, especially toward the Butte and Knik River areas, can get strong winds. That's worth thinking about for heating costs, outbuildings and snow drifting. Ask neighbors and look at how existing buildings are oriented.
So which one is right for you?
If you want convenience, newer homes and lake living, start in Wasilla. If you want acreage, mountain views and a small-town feel, start in Palmer. And if you can't decide, that's what I'm here for. Let's tour both.