Alaska Airlines continues to turn Atmos Rewards into something much bigger than a traditional frequent flyer program. The latest addition is Atmos Communities, a new way for members to align themselves with a group based on how they travel and what matters most to them. Or at least get some extra perks while flying and feel connected to the airlines.

Yet naturally, the first question most Atmos Rewards members are going to ask is: Which community should I choose? That sounds simple. It may not be. Unless maybe you live in Hawaii or Alaska, but even then, your choice might not be what your gut pulls you to first.

The smartest choice isn’t necessarily the community with the flashiest headline benefit.…