Whittier, Alaska: The Unique Town Living Under One Roof

Nestled between the icy waters of Prince William Sound and the rugged peaks of the Chugach Mountains, Whittier, Alaska, is unlike any other town in America. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and remote location, Whittier has captured attention for a rather unusual reason: almost its entire population lives under a single roof. In a town of roughly 272 residents, 90% reside in the same apartment building—the Begich Towers. This distinctive setup has earned Whittier the nickname “the town under one roof,” making it a fascinating destination and a unique study of communal living.

The History of Begich Towers: From Army Barracks to a Small Town Under One Roof

The story of Whittier’s Begich Towers begins in the 1950s, when the United States Army constructed the building as part of a strategic base during the Cold War. The 14-story structure was initially built to house military personnel and was equipped with facilities to make it self-sustaining in Alaska’s remote wilderness. After the military pulled out, Begich Towers found a new life as a condominium complex, and over the years, it gradually evolved into the heart of Whittier’s close-knit community. Today, the building remains a vital hub, providing not just a roof over residents’ heads but also almost everything they need in day-to-day life.

Life in Begich Towers: A Community Unlike Any Other

Imagine stepping out of your front door to find not just neighbors, but practically everyone in your town right down the hall. Begich Towers is far more than just an apartment complex; it’s a world unto itself. The building houses a post office, general store, police station, laundromat, health clinic, mayor’s office, and even a heated indoor pool. Residents can go about their daily lives without ever stepping outside—a practical solution, considering Whittier’s harsh weather conditions, especially in winter.

The building’s unique structure and self-contained nature foster a strong sense of community. People in Whittier know their neighbors well, and living in close quarters creates a social dynamic that’s rarely found elsewhere. Friendships and support networks flourish here, as neighbors become extended family. Children grow up playing together in the hallways and community spaces, while adults form bonds over shared experiences, from the difficulties of winter isolation to the joy of summer when cruise ships bring visitors to town.

This close-knit lifestyle is not for everyone, of course. Some people might feel too confined by the limited social circles and lack of privacy that come with living in such proximity. But for those who choose to live in Whittier, the arrangement offers a rare chance to experience a true sense of belonging and support.

Accessibility and Isolation: Whittier’s Relationship with the Outside World

Whittier’s isolation is both its charm and its challenge. The town is accessible only by air or through a two-mile single-lane tunnel that cuts through Maynard Mountain, known as the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. This tunnel is the longest highway tunnel in North America and serves as a lifeline connecting Whittier with the rest of Alaska. Traffic through the tunnel alternates directions on a strict schedule, and in winter, harsh weather can make access even more difficult. Many residents prepare to stay indoors for long periods during the colder months, where temperatures regularly dip below freezing, and snowfall can be intense.

For those accustomed to urban conveniences, Whittier’s limited access to the outside world may seem daunting. Yet for Whittier’s residents, isolation is a way of life, and they are well-prepared for it. Supplies are stocked up in advance, and the self-contained amenities within Begich Towers minimize the need for frequent trips outside. In a town where winter can last nearly eight months, this arrangement makes life not only bearable but surprisingly comfortable.

The Practical Benefits of Living in Begich Towers

The Begich Towers is more than just a quirky novelty. Its design is incredibly practical for Whittier’s climate and geographic isolation. In the winter, temperatures can plunge, and strong winds sweep through the mountains, making outdoor activities challenging. Begich Towers keeps residents sheltered and safe, allowing them to go about their lives without facing the brunt of Alaska’s extreme weather.

Moreover, Whittier’s school and gym are connected to Begich Towers via a tunnel, allowing children to attend school without braving harsh weather. This interconnected setup enables residents to live efficiently and safely in one of Alaska’s most rugged regions. Instead of scattered houses with separate amenities, the centralization of essential services within Begich Towers creates a functional, compact environment where residents don’t have to sacrifice comfort for remoteness.

The Town’s Appeal to Adventurers and Visitors

Though Whittier’s “town under one roof” lifestyle might seem unconventional, it attracts adventurers, tourists, and travelers interested in seeing a unique way of living in one of the last frontiers. During the summer months, when cruise ships bring visitors to Whittier, the town comes alive with activity. Tourists are fascinated by the idea of a whole town under one roof, and many make the trip through the Anton Anderson Tunnel to experience it firsthand.

Whittier offers access to outdoor activities, including kayaking, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding Chugach National Forest. For residents and visitors alike, the pristine beauty of Prince William Sound and the towering mountains provide a stunning backdrop to this remote community’s life. Despite its small size and isolation, Whittier offers a unique blend of rugged Alaskan beauty and a quirky, communal way of living that has drawn national and international attention.

Is Whittier’s Way of Life Sustainable?

For all its appeal, Whittier’s lifestyle raises questions about sustainability. The town relies heavily on the Begich Towers structure, and any significant issues with the building could disrupt daily life. Furthermore, as the world grapples with climate change and resource management, Whittier’s dependence on the single-lane tunnel and limited infrastructure poses challenges. But for now, Whittier’s residents seem content with their small, self-contained world, connected by shared experiences and a deep appreciation for their unique home.

In the end, Whittier is a testament to human adaptability and community spirit. It’s a place where the challenges of geography and climate have inspired a unique solution: an entire town living comfortably, side by side, under one roof. For those willing to embrace its unique lifestyle, Whittier is not just a town—it’s a family, living together in harmony amid Alaska’s breathtaking, rugged wilderness.