The Matanuska-Susitna Borough

By most economic measures, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough has been a clear standout in Alaska over the last two decades. The source of the borough's growth is no mystery: it's within commuting distance to Anchorage, the state's largest city, and it has more affordable housing and more room to grow than Anchorage. Such a pattern of development - faster growth in the area surrounding a major city than in the city itself - is unique in Alaska, but not unlike many other parts of the country.