2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Fairbanks, AK vs Ely, MN

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Highlights
Are people in Ely older or younger than people in Fairbanks?
- The Median Age in Ely is 24.0 years older than in Fairbanks.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ely or Fairbanks?
- Ely housing costs are 26.9% less expensive than Fairbanks housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ely or Fairbanks?
- The average commute for residents of Ely is 6.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Fairbanks.

Things to do in Fairbanks?
Fairbanks AK rests close Arctic Circle famed principally for its natural sites such as Chena River State Recreation Area where visitors may take part in different water sports or simply enjoy some peace & tranquility while walking along sandy beaches!

Things to do in Ely?
Ely, Minnesota is a small town located along the scenic edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It has a population of just over 3,000 people and is known for its quaint downtown area and close-knit community atmosphere. Residents here enjoy a slower pace of life surrounded by vast natural beauty. Summertime activities include camping, hiking, canoeing, fishing, and more in the nearby parks and forests, while winter brings snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities nearby. Whether you’re looking for an active outdoor lifestyle or simply an escape from big city bustle and noise, Ely offers a unique experience that makes it feel like home to its residents.

 Fairbanks, AKEly, MNUnited States
 Population  Unlock3,280329,725,481
 Median Income$66,572  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock52.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$275,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.8%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time12.94  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Fairbanks    20 Reviews

I have lived in the Fairbanks area for about 25 years and have become very comfortable with the community and the lifestyle here. That said, retirement is fast  More

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Over 14 years ago

Comments about Fairbanks, both positive and negative, are of interest to me. Was in Fairbanks this past March [and north on Cleary Summit] and fell in love with the  More

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Over 15 years ago

I came to Alaska 15 years ago on an adventure and first lived in Juneau, which I LOVED and then moved to Eagle River, which I loved and now live in Fairbanks! I do not  More

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Reviews for Ely    1 Reviews

Over 19 years ago

Lots of local talent. For a small city, Ely has a very educated population that brings a variety of talents to local arts and  More

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