Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson, commonly referred to as JBER, is a United States military facility located in Anchorage, Alaska. It is a joint base formed from the merger of the United States Air Force's Elmendorf Air Force Base and the United States Army's Fort Richardson, which occurred in 2010. The installation hosts the headquarters for the United States Alaskan Command, 11th Air Force, 11th Airborne Division, and the Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Command Region. Read on to find out how to transition into your new home at Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson.
Where Are the Bases?
Elmendorf AFB
The main gate and visitor center for Elmendorf AFB is the Boniface Gate Visitor Control Center located at:
N. Boniface Parkway, Anchorage, AK 99506
Fort Richardson
The main gate and visitor control center for Fort Richardson is located at:
1 D St, Anchorage, AK 99505.
JBER Operator Phone: 907-552-1110
Procedures for Entering the Base
Below is a breakdown of the procedures for entering the base.
Average Drive Times to Base Gates from Popular Cities
Elmendorf AFB: The main gate and visitor center are approximately 10 minutes from downtown Anchorage and 20 minutes from the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.
Fort Richardson: The main gate is approximately 15 minutes from downtown Anchorage and 25 minutes from the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.
Need Base Access? Here's What to Do
To access JBER, visitors need to obtain a Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) card or a pass from a Visitor Control Center (VCC).
Visitors must be 16 years or older, possess a valid ID, and be sponsored by an authorized DoD member already registered in the DBIDS.
Children 15 and under do not require a DBIDS ID but must be accompanied by a DoD member.
Gates & Hours of Operation
Below are the JBER gate hours.
Boniface Gate
The Boniface Gate is the main gate, and it is open 24 hours a day. The visitor control center is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm.
Richardson Gate
The Richardson Gate is the main gate for the former Fort Richardson, and is open 24 hours a day. The visitor control center is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.
Muldoon Gate
Muldoon Gate is open Monday through Friday from 6 am to 10 pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 10 pm.
Post Road Gate
Post Road Gate is open from Monday through Friday from 6 am to 6 pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 6 am to 1 pm.
Government Hill Gate
Government Hill Gate is open daily from 6 am to 9 pm.
What ID Do You Need For Base Access?
All visitors requesting unescorted access should have a REAL ID compliant ID. If the visitor does not have a compliant ID, the following acceptable alternate identifications must be presented in conjunction with a state or federally issued photo ID per the DoD and Air Force instructions:
- Social Security card and original birth certificate from a U.S. state, territory, or District of Columbia, bearing a raised seal.
- Native American Tribal ID with a driver’s license.
- Transportation Worker Identification Card with a drivers' license.
- For visitors 16 and 17 years of age who do not possess any state or federally issued photo ID, the following can be presented:
- School ID
- School records
- Report cards
Base Amenities & Facilities
Below, we are breaking down some of the base amenities and facilities available on JBER.
JBER Hospital
Located on Zeamer Avenue, JBER Hospital provides comprehensive medical care for service members, families, and retirees. Patients can access routine care, specialty services, and emergency medical support.
Address: 5955 Zeamer Ave., Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, AK 99506
Phone: 907-580-2778
DEERs Office
The DEERS Office assists with ID cards, enrollment, and benefits updates. It’s located in the People Center on 20th Street. Be sure to bring necessary documents for faster service.
Address: People Center, 20th Street, Building #8517, JBER, AK 99506
Phone: 907-552-8080 or 907-552-2036
Finance Office
The Finance Office provides support for military pay, travel vouchers, and financial inquiries. It is conveniently located in Building #8517 on 20th Street.
Address: 20th Street, Building #8517, JBER, AK 99506
Phone: 907-552-5212 or 907-552-2404
Legal Offices
JBER has two legal offices, one on the former Elmendorf AFB and one on the former Fort Richardson.
JBER-Elmendorf Legal Office
Address: 20th Street, Suite 330, Building #8517, JBER-Elmendorf, AK 99506
Phone: 907-552-3048
JBER-Richardson Legal Office
Address: 600 Richardson Drive, JBER-Richardson, AK 99506
Phone: 907-552-3048
Commissary
The JBER Commissary provides grocery shopping with tax-free savings for military families. Open daily with extended hours during the week.
Address: 5800 Westover Ave, JBER, AK 99506
Hours: The commissary is open from 9 am to 8 pm Monday through Saturday and 9 am to 7 pm on Sunday.
Phone: 907-213-6456
AAFES Main Exchange
The BX is the one-stop shop for clothing, electronics, household goods, and more. It is conveniently located next to the commissary.
Address: 5800B Westover Ave, JBER, AK 99506
Hours: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Saturday and 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Sunday
Phone: 907-753-4420
Gas Station / Class 6 Store
JBER has three gas stations to keep you fueled up, with two offering Class 6 Stores for beverages and convenience items.
Joint Military Express / Class Six
Location: Provider Dr, Elmendorf AFB, AK 99506
Hours: Open 5 am to 12 am Monday through Friday and 7 am to 12 am on Saturday and Sunday
Phone: 907-753-0323
AAFES Gas Station / Class Six Fort Richardson
Location: Building 560, D St, JBER, AK 99505
Hours: Open 6 am to 9 pm on Monday through Thursday, 6 am to 10 pm on Friday, 8 am to 10 pm on Saturday, and 8 am to 9 pm on Sunday
Phone: 907-428-1248
AAFES Gas Station Elmendorf
Location: 6210 Arctic Warrior Dr, JBER, AK 99506
Hours: Open 6 am to 9 pm on Monday through Friday, 7 am to 9 pm on Saturday, and 8 am to 6 pm on Sunday
Phone: 907-753-1291
Morale, Welfare, and Recreation
Aero Club
Located at Hangar 7, the Aero Club offers flight training, aircraft rentals, and aviation services for aviation enthusiasts and service members. It’s the perfect resource for those looking to learn to fly or maintain their pilot skills.
Location: Hangar 7, Bldg #10286, JBER-E, AK 99506
Phone: 907-753-4167
Arctic Oasis Community Center
The Arctic Oasis is JBER’s hub for community activities, featuring a family-friendly atmosphere with recreational programs, events, and entertainment options for all ages.
Location: Bldg #9497, JBER-E, AK 99506
Phone: 907-552-8529
Arts & Crafts Center
This center offers creative outlets for everyone, with classes, custom framing, engraving, and DIY supplies. It's a great place to explore hobbies or make personalized gifts.
Location: Bldg #755, JBER-R, AK 99505
Phone: 907-384-3717
Auto Skills Center
A do-it-yourself auto shop with lifts, tools, and professional guidance for vehicle maintenance and repairs. Save money and learn hands-on car care.
Location: Bldg #755, JBER-R, AK 99505
Phone: 907-384-3718
Bowling Center
Offering lanes, food, and fun, the Bowling Center is perfect for a family outing, a night with friends, or league play.
Location: Bldg #7176, JBER-E, AK 99506
Phone: 907-753-7467
Buckner Fitness Center
One of JBER’s main fitness hubs, featuring weight rooms, courts, and group exercise programs to help keep the community active and mission-ready.
Location: Bldg #690, JBER-R, AK 99505
Phone: 907- 384-1369
Eagleglen Fitness Park
Eagleglen is an outdoor fitness park that combines trails, workout stations, and recreational space for running, biking, and year-round fitness activities. Seasonal contact numbers are available for summer and winter.
Location: 4414 First St., JBER-E, AK 99506
Phone
Summer: 907-552-3624 or 907-552-3622
Winter: 907-552-2023
Elmendorf Fitness Center
A full-service fitness facility with cardio and strength equipment, classes, and intramural programs to support health and wellness.
Location: Bldg #9510, JBER-E, AK 99506
Phone: 907-552-3624/3622
Moose Run Golf Course & Pro Shop
One of the northernmost 36-hole golf courses in the world, Moose Run offers breathtaking Alaskan views and a pro shop stocked with gear for all golfers.
Location: Bldg #9497, JBER-E, AK 99506
Phone: 907-428-0056
Outdoor Recreation Center
The ODR Center provides rentals for outdoor gear, trip planning, guided tours, and seasonal activities—perfect for exploring Alaska’s natural beauty year-round.
Location: Bldg #7301, JBER-E, AK 99506
Phone: 907-552-2023
Dining Facilities
Below are several dining facilities.
Iditirod DFAC
The Iditarod Dining Facility offers a variety of meal options throughout the day, including late-night service for shift workers. It’s a convenient spot for balanced meals at nearly any time of day.
Location: Bldg #8088 25th Street, JBER, AK 99506
Hours:
Breakfast
Mon - Fri: 6:00 am - 8:30 am
Sat - Sun: 6:30 am - 8:30 am
Lunch
Mon - Fri: 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Sat - Sun: 10:30 am - 1:30 pm
Dinner
Mon - Sun: 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Late Night
Mon - Sun: 10:00 pm - 12:00 am
Wilderness Inn DFAC
The Wilderness Inn Dining Facility serves hearty meals in a welcoming setting, with weekend hours designed to fit training and family schedules.
Location: 647 C Street, JBER, AK 99505
Hours:
Breakfast
Mon - Fri 7:30 am - 9:30 am
Lunch
Mon- Fri 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Dinner
Mon - Fri 5:00 pm- 6:30 pm
DFAC is open 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM on Sat & Sun
Phone: 907-384-6048
Housing & Privatized Housing
Military Housing Office
Location: 6346 Arctic Warrior Dr, JBER, AK 99506
Phone: 907-552-4439
Aurora Military Housing
Location: 6350 Arctic Warrior Drive, JBER, AK 99506
Phone: 907-753-1023
On-Base Housing
At JBER, military family housing is privatized. Aurora Military Housing owns the family housing and is responsible for maintaining, repairing, constructing, and managing the community.
Dormitories are provided for unaccompanied Airmen in the ranks of E-1 to E-3 and E-4 with less than three years of service. Each Airman is provided a private sleeping room, furnishings, bed linens, and supplies required for comfortable living. Room arrangements may vary depending on location.
Unaccompanied Airmen in the rank of E-4, with greater than three years of service and above, move directly into housing in the local community.
Off-Base Housing
Housing is plentiful in the vicinity of JBER, and lots are on the generous side, with a variety of offerings that will get you out of the city and into the country.
With so many communities, neighborhoods, and styles of homes to choose from, house hunting can be a real adventure.
Cities Near JBER and Driving Time
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) is conveniently located near several Alaskan communities, making it easy to access shopping, dining, and recreation outside the installation.
Anchorage is about 15 minutes away. This city offers a full range of services, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
Eagle River is just 15 minutes from base. This community provides a small-town feel with easy access to trails, parks, and local shops.
Chugiak is roughly 20 minutes away. Chugiak offers a quieter residential setting with quick access to outdoor recreation and the scenic Chugach Mountains.
Temporary Living Facility (TLF)
The North Star Inn provides all temporary lodging on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.
Reservations for lodging should be made as far in advance as possible to ensure temporary lodging facilities are available upon arrival.
Call the North Star Inn at 907-552-2454 to make lodging reservations as soon as possible. Rooms fill up quickly, especially during the summer months.
If no reservations are available, the accompanied member may be issued a non-availability letter to go off base and obtain a hotel/motel in Anchorage.
For more information on JBER TLF, visit the Department of Defense Lodging website or the JBER Life lodging page.
Military Preferred Living Areas
Below is a list of military preferred living areas near JBER.
Median Home Values
Anchorage: $417,000
Eagle River: $465,000
Chugiak: $388,000
Median Rental Rate (Two-Bedroom Unit)
Anchorage: $1,618.00 per month
Eagle River: $2,387 per month
Chugiak: $1,870 per month
Schools
Below is a list of schools on and off base.
On-Base Schools (K-5)
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) has three elementary schools operated by the Anchorage School District (ASD).
These are Aurora Elementary, Orion Elementary, and Ursa Minor Elementary.
Students attend middle and high school off-base, also within the Anchorage School District, with bus service provided.
Off-Base Schools
Anchorage School District
The Anchorage School District (ASD) is a large district with over 130 schools and programs, offering a diverse range of educational opportunities and support services, including those for students with special needs.
Schools in Eagle River and Chugiak belong to the ASD.
Private Schools
There are 21 private schools in the vicinity of JBER.
Local Employment Assistance Resources
This office provides career guidance, job search assistance, and referrals to local employment resources for service members and their families.
Employment Services-Education & Referral
Location: 600 Richardson Dr, Room A139, JBER, AK 99505
Phone: 907-552-4943
Alaska Job Center Network
As the state’s primary job portal, they offer listings across industries, resume tools, and career resources for job seekers in Alaska.
State of Alaska Jobs
Official site for state government positions, including administrative, public safety, and professional career opportunities statewide.
Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Covers employment opportunities within the Mat-Su Borough, including local government and community services roles.
Municipality of Anchorage
Provides job listings with the Municipality of Anchorage, including city administration, public services, and maintenance positions.
City of Wasilla
Lists local government employment opportunities within Wasilla, from city planning to public works.
City of Palmer
Offers career openings in Palmer’s city government, including administrative, public safety, and community service roles.
JBER Civilian Opportunities
Federal Jobs
Federal employment opportunities are available on JBER and throughout Alaska, offering careers in administration, medical services, logistics, maintenance, and more. These positions provide competitive benefits and stability, and they are open to both military-affiliated applicants and the general public.
NAF Jobs
Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) jobs support the daily life and morale of the military community. These positions often include work in child and youth programs, fitness centers, food service, lodging, and recreation facilities on JBER. NAF roles are ideal for those looking for flexible employment while supporting service members and their families.
Exchange Jobs
The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) offers employment opportunities in retail, food service, and customer support across JBER facilities. Working with AAFES allows employees to serve the military community directly while gaining experience in retail and service industries.
FAQs
Can I live on JBER without children?
Dormitories are provided for unaccompanied Airmen in the ranks of E-1 to E-3 and E-4 with less than three years of service. All others must live off base.
Can I use coupons at the commissary?
Yes, you can use coupons at the commissary.
Is JBER hands-free?
Yes, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) requires the use of hands-free devices for cell phone use while driving.
How cold are the winters in Anchorage?
In Anchorage, Alaska, winter temperatures typically range from an average low of 9°F (-13°C) to an average high of 23°F (-5°C).
The coldest months, December and January, see average temperatures between 10°F (-12°C) and 25°F (-4°C) according to Visit Anchorage.
While Anchorage is known for having a milder coastal climate compared to some other parts of Alaska, it can still get quite cold, with lows potentially dropping to around 0°F (-18°C) or even colder.
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