Housing Assistance Resources in Alaska
Last updated September 5, 2026
Alaska's vast geography means housing challenges can look very different depending on whether you're in Anchorage, Fairbanks, or a remote rural community. Costs are high, supply is limited, and winter weather makes housing instability especially dangerous. Whether you're facing eviction, fleeing an unsafe situation, or struggling to pay rent, real help is available — and knowing where to start can make all the difference.
The best first step for most Alaskans is calling 2-1-1 Alaska, a free, confidential helpline that connects callers to local housing, utility, food, and social service resources anywhere in the state. For those in federally assisted housing or navigating homelessness, the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) and HUD-funded Continuum of Care programs coordinate a range of rental assistance, shelter, and permanent supportive housing options across the state.
This page outlines key programs available to Alaska residents, including federally administered programs you can access at the state level and how to find local help when a program name or number isn't easy to track down. Veterans, seniors, survivors of domestic violence, and families with children may qualify for targeted assistance beyond general housing programs — those resources are included below as well.
Key programs in Alaska
2-1-1 Alaska
A free, statewide information and referral service that connects Alaskans to local housing assistance, emergency shelter, rental aid, and utility help. Available 24/7 and accessible from anywhere in the state, including rural areas.
How to access: Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or visit ak.211.org. Interpreters are available. If 2-1-1 doesn't connect in a remote area, try calling 1-800-478-2221.
Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC)
Alaska's primary state housing agency. AHFC administers federal Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, public housing, and various rental and homeownership assistance programs. It also oversees LIHEAP (home energy assistance) and coordinates homelessness programs across the state.
How to access: Visit ahfc.us or call AHFC's main line at 907-330-8400. For rental assistance or housing vouchers, contact the AHFC office nearest you — offices are located in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and other regions. Waitlists may apply; apply as early as possible.
HUD Continuum of Care / Emergency Shelter & Transitional Housing
HUD funds networks of local nonprofit providers across Alaska to deliver emergency shelter, transitional housing, rapid rehousing, and permanent supportive housing for people experiencing homelessness. Programs vary by region but exist in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and many rural service areas.
How to access: Contact 2-1-1 Alaska to be connected to the appropriate local Continuum of Care access point in your region. You can also use HUD's resource locator at hud.gov or contact AHFC, which coordinates CoC programs statewide.
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) — Alaska
Federally funded program that helps low-income Alaskans pay heating costs — critically important given Alaska's extreme winters and high fuel prices. Assistance can cover heating fuel, electric heat, weatherization, and in some cases crisis heating emergencies.
How to access: In Alaska, LIHEAP is administered by AHFC. Apply through ahfc.us, or call AHFC at 907-330-8400. Applications are typically accepted in the fall before heating season; contact AHFC or 2-1-1 for current open enrollment dates.
VA Homeless Veterans Programs (for Alaska Veterans)
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers housing assistance specifically for veterans, including the HUD-VASH voucher program (permanent housing with case management), the SSVF program (rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention grants), and emergency financial assistance through VA social workers.
How to access: Contact the Alaska VA Healthcare System in Anchorage at 907-257-4700, or visit va.gov/alaska-health-care. Veterans experiencing homelessness can also call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838), available 24/7.
Housing Assistance resources for Alaska
211 Housing & Shelter
NationwideLocal shelter, rental, and housing assistance referrals. Dial 211.
HUD Housing Counseling
NationwideFree HUD-approved housing counseling on rent, foreclosure, homelessness, and fair housing.
National Low Income Housing Coalition
NationwideResources and local referrals for affordable housing and rental assistance.
Other resources in Alaska
- Food Assistance in Alaska
- Utility Assistance in Alaska
- Transportation Assistance in Alaska
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in Alaska
- Mental Health Resources in Alaska
- Domestic Violence Resources in Alaska
- Disability Resources in Alaska
- Veteran Resources in Alaska
- Child & Family Assistance in Alaska
- Senior Resources in Alaska