Fairbanks North Star Borough, Alaska
Fairbanks North Star Borough is the second-largest population center in Alaska, after Anchorage. It is located in the state’s interior, far from the coast. Fairbanks, the main city, is known as “The Golden Heart of Alaska.”
The borough has a population of about 95,000 people, with most residents living in or around Fairbanks. It is home to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, a major research center. Gold mining played an important role in the borough’s history and continues to be significant today.
The area experiences extreme temperatures, with very cold winters and warm summers. The northern lights are often visible, making Fairbanks a popular destination for aurora viewing. The Trans-Alaska Pipeline also passes through the area, carrying oil from the North Slope.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Borough Name | Fairbanks North Star Borough |
| Borough Seat | Fairbanks |
| Population | Approximately 95,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Fairbanks, North Pole, College, Ester, Fox, Moose Creek, Chena Ridge, Salcha, Goldstream, Two Rivers |
| Interstates and Highways | Alaska Route 2 (Richardson Highway), Alaska Route 3 (Parks Highway), Alaska Route 4, Alaska Route 6, Alaska Route 8 (Steese Highway) |
| FIPS Code | 02-090 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 7,444 square miles (Land: 7,338 sq mi, Water: 106 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Boroughs and Census Areas (and Direction) | Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area (North), Southeast Fairbanks Census Area (Southeast), Denali Borough (Southwest) |
| Time Zone | Alaska Time Zone (AKT) |
| State | Alaska |
| Coordinates | 64.8378° N, 147.7164° W |
| Etymology | Named after Fairbanks, the borough seat, which was named in honor of Charles W. Fairbanks |
| Major Landmarks | University of Alaska Fairbanks, Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, Chena River State Recreation Area, Pioneer Park, Santa Claus House in North Pole, Fairbanks Ice Museum |
