Whittier, Alaska: The Town Where Nearly Everyone Lives in One Building

When people think of small-town life, they usually imagine cozy homes, winding streets, and a handful of local shops. But in Whittier, Alaska, community life looks a little different. In fact, most of its residents share the same roof—literally.

Life Inside Begich Towers

Around 90% of Whittier’s 272 residents live in a single 14-story building called Begich Towers. Once an Army barracks during World War II, the structure was later converted into a multi-use residential hub. Today, it’s more than just an apartment complex—it’s essentially an entire town contained within four walls.

Inside Begich Towers, you’ll find nearly everything needed for daily life:

• A post office for sending and receiving mail
• A grocery store for essentials
• The police station and mayor’s office
• A clinic for basic healthcare
• A laundromat and even a heated swimming pool

For many residents, this setup makes Whittier feel less like a traditional town and more like a vertical village.

Why Everyone Lives Under One Roof

Whittier’s unusual design isn’t just a quirky choice—it’s about survival. Nestled between mountains and the Prince William Sound, the town faces brutal winters with heavy snow and fierce winds. Centralizing life in Begich Towers helps residents stay safe, warm, and connected during the long, isolating season.

Adding to its uniqueness, Whittier is accessible only by boat, plane, or a single-lane, 2.5-mile tunnel that cuts through the mountains. The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is one of the longest of its kind in North America, and it alternates directions for cars and trains.

A Community Like No Other

Living in Whittier comes with quirks most people could never imagine. Neighbors aren’t just across the street—they’re literally down the hall. Children walk to school without stepping outdoors, since the Whittier School is connected to Begich Towers by a tunnel.

Despite its challenges, many residents wouldn’t trade Whittier’s lifestyle for anything else. With stunning glacier views, fishing and wildlife at their doorstep, and a tightly knit community, Whittier offers something rare: the feeling that everyone truly knows everyone.

Would You Live There?

Whittier, Alaska, often feels more like a fascinating social experiment than a typical American town. It raises an interesting question: would you want to live in a place where nearly your entire community is under one roof?

👉 What do you think—cozy dream or claustrophobic nightmare?