Local taxes tend to be lower than they are in the continental 48 states as well. Snow removal is going to become part of your daily life. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and lack of crowds, Alaska is a place where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature in a way that is truly special. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. You can get paid to live in Alaska once you qualify. Cost of Living Find Your Best Place Quiz City Compare Climate Top Lists Rankings Schools Find a Place DataEngine Interactive Map. So Alaskans are less snobby then everyone else..? Those are the only career opportunities that are available. Including the: Pacific Ocean Gulf of Alaska Bering Sea Chukchi Sea Beaufort Sea Alaska is a good place to live for folks who appreciate the stunning natural beauty and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, and are alright with a high cost of living and challenging weather. There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. In 2014, Alaska voters approved Ballot Measure 2, which legalized the possession, use, and sale of marijuana for recreational purposes for adults over the age of 21. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. Alaska is home to the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. Maybe living in Alaska is your pace. Alaska is a vast and very remote state with many communities being extremely isolated from the rest of the country. Except for areas where there is a concentration of wood-burning for home heating, the air quality is the freshest in the world. D Sitka Housing Home value is 33% higher than Alaska. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. This can be a physically demanding and time-consuming job depending on where you live and how much it snows. Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska - dwellics.com Alaska is a good place to retire for people who love nature, dont live on a fixed income, and are alright with harsh weather. Fairbanks is the home to 31,000 people. From the moment you set foot in this wild, beautiful land, you can feel the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins. When youre living in Anchorage, the temperature tends to hover around 70 in July and August. While Alaska has diverse geographical regions with different climates, Alaska is known for its long nights and winters no matter where you go. Cost of Living in Sitka, Alaska - Best Places 2023 Compare Cities Job Market: Parkersburg, WV vs Lafayette, IN But what made it more notable was the pristine setting where it took place. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. Because of its geographic place on the planet, winter in Alaska is not just cold; it is dark as well. The most vigorous earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. What makes them seem like that? With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. 2023 Compare Cities Cost of Living: Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. 3. It can get extremely cold in Alaska, even during the summer months. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. With the cost of a gallon of gas in Alaska at $3.36 according to GasBuddy, it is the sixth-highest in the whole country. Thank you for taking the time to post this. Our cost of living indices are based on a US average of 100. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. Explore the best neighborhoods to live in the U.S. based on crime, public schools, real estate, housing, properties, cost of living, job opportunities, and local amenities in Alaska. They are really an issue only from the second week in June to the last week in July. The costs make the town kind of love it or leave it. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. Alaska is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, including over 3,000 glaciers and over 100,000 miles of coastline. Best Places to Live in Fairbanks, Alaska 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! Of the two million tourists to visit the state each year, more than half will arrive by ship. Anchorage never had a venue large enough for famous musicians to performuntil recently. In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. You will also need to consider the cost of the trip before deciding to travel. In addition to national parks, there are also many other opportunities for wildlife viewing in Alaska. Another one of the major challenges of living in Alaska is the high cost of goods. In addition to outdoor activities, there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks together throughout the year. 5 Myths About Retiring in Alaska - Alaska Tour Jobs You may receive another 30 inches during the months of November and December combined. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska There are also initiatives to support the development of greenhouses and other methods of growing produce in the state. Use the menu in the orange box - on the left if you're using a PC - to review a variety of detailed facts and statistics we analyzed, including cost of living, climate, safety, community, infrastructure, education, and a list of pros and cons based on data from more than four dozen trusted sources. Some homes can get through the season using coal or wood with an interior stove to limit costs, but you will be trading time for money with that choice. What many people do not realize is that Japan actually occupied two Alaskan islands during World War II for 15 months. Because it is a lot colder in Alaska than in other states, your heating costs during the winter are going to be significantly higher. Alaska was ranked the most outdoorsy state in America with 81 percent of the population being involved in outdoor activities. There is not the same level of hectic chaos here like there is in most of the rest of the world. You can fish for trout, salmon, halibut, and crab. Daylight is nonexistent in the northernmost regions for months at a time, which creates a physiological shift in disposition and mood. 9. This check is a way for the state to share the wealth generated by the states oil and mineral resources with its residents. Whether youre in the mood for a hearty fish stew, a delicious salmon salad, or simply a steaming plate of steamed crab legs, youll be able to find it all in Alaska. The average amount of the dividend check is around $1,600, although the actual amount can vary from year to year depending on the performance of the fund. This event helped to form the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai National Park. If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. Moving to Alaska can be a bit SAD (were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder), 5. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. There are numerous job opportunities available in Alaska right now. As a result, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reports that over 90% of the states surface waters are classified as clean or moderately clean, with only a small number of areas classified as polluted.. Some folks I know use it toward a vacation every year. Copyright © 2023 Embrace Someplace | Privacy Policy | As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in Alaska? For those who already live in Alaska, it is not surprising that their state was ranked #1 as the happiest place to live in America by a well-being study conducted by Gallup-Healthways in 2015. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of a large town or the seclusion of a remote area of the state, there are plenty of options throughout Alaska. This park is home to many different species of animals, including bears, moose, caribou, and wolves. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. Those who move here will either stress out because they feel like no one is being responsible, or they will take a deep breath and embrace the relaxed attitude. Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. Lets get started! Have you ever heard of the concept called Island Time? When you move to Alaska, you will get to experience this slowing of life across the entire state. Its no secret that Alaska has some of the most ferocious mosquitoes in the world, with a species called the Alaska mosquito that is known for its aggressive biting habits. If youre thinking of moving to Alaska, its important to be prepared for rain lots of it. This means that residents of Alaska do not have to pay state taxes on the money they earn from wages, salaries, and other forms of income. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. Although there are plenty of flights that you can take from Alaska to the continental 48 states, the distance that you face becomes surprisingly large after you make the move. 6. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. That is true because of the added transportation costs to move goods that far north. Additionally, Alaskas coastal location means that it is often hit by storms, which can bring even more precipitation. The cost of living in Alaska is higher than the national average. Cons: 1 - cost of living is high. The pros of retiring in Alaska are the stunning landscapes, friendly residents, slow-paced and diverse lifestyles that you'll encounter here, and no income tax. Pros of Moving to Alaska 1. Additionally, the state offers a number of tax exemptions and credits for residents, such as the Alaska Permanent Fund dividend, which provides an annual payout to eligible residents. Population: 2,683. You can limit this disadvantage by finding a home in or near Anchorage because there is a natural gas infrastructure that gives you access to this affordable fuel. The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. The sunsets in Alaska are regarded as the most beautiful on earth. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. However, the lack of a state income tax and sales tax can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. It is important to consider these factors when looking at salary information for Alaska. Beautiful Maltese Dogs Of Hobart Bay, Alaska - Premier Pups The higher median salary in Alaska is likely due in part to the states high cost of living, as well as the presence of higher-paying industries such as oil and gas. The Natural Splendor If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. 19 Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Networking Sites, 18 Major Advantages and Disadvantages of the Payback Period, 20 Advantages and Disadvantages of Leasing a Car, 19 Advantages and Disadvantages of Debt Financing, 24 Key Advantages and Disadvantages of a C Corporation, 16 Biggest Advantages and Disadvantages of Mediation, 18 Advantages and Disadvantages of a Gated Community, 17 Big Advantages and Disadvantages of Focus Groups, 17 Key Advantages and Disadvantages of Corporate Bonds, 19 Major Advantages and Disadvantages of Annuities, 17 Biggest Advantages and Disadvantages of Advertising. Outdoor activities are literally endless for the adventure-seeking individual. You can take many flights from the continental 48 states to Alaska, but the distance you need to travel becomes surprisingly great after you make the move. Through its established Permanent Fund Dividend Program, Alaska will pay you to move there. Moving to Alaska, United States. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. Some popular cities in the state include: Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska and a hub for commerce, culture, and outdoor recreation. This can make it difficult to access basic services and amenities, such as medical care and grocery stores. For example, it is illegal to consume marijuana in public, and it is illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana. Thanks for the replies! While Alaska has many incredible natural wonders, they are not always easy to get to. Very interesting info!Perfect just what I was looking for! The result is your tax burden is potentially higher than it would be in some states. Median home value. The highest peak in North America, Mount Denali, is located in Alaska and stands at over 20,000 feet tall. Overall, the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so its important to be prepared for a range of conditions when visiting the state. The median values are higher for some of the bigger cities, with Anchorage and Juneau standing at $303,601 and $364,295, respectively. The money can be used for anything that I choose, from paying bills to saving for a rainy day. Prices for both of those items are obscene. When you move to Alaska, you will discover that there are military, transportation, healthcare, and construction jobs readily available. For generations, dogsled racing has been one of the most prominent sports in Alaska. Mushing is a sport or mode of transportation powered by dogs. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. Then there are the Northern Lights that you can see frequently dance across the sky all winter long. Meeting start whenever the people involved feel like making them happen. In recent years, there have been efforts to reconsider the lack of a state sales tax in Alaska. At Point Barrow, the sun does not set from May 10 to August 2. Fly from Los Angeles on Alaska Airlines, Delta, American Airlines and more. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Pro's and Con's of living in Alaska. Are you happy living - reddit Alaska Will Pay You to Move There These people are defined by their language groups and are considered Alaskan Natives. Despite their small size, mosquitoes can be a big problem in Alaska, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and those who live in rural areas. June 21 has almost 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the year. Fishing is also an option in the states rivers and streams. (Top 10 Reasons), Why Is Cancn So Expensive? Visitors can also go birdwatching in the states many wetlands and forests, or take a trip to see the Northern Lights. Air quality fines are usually more than $20,000, but that is a small fraction of the slot machines daily take in the ships casino. Reasons not to move to Alaska. One of the advantages of a resource extraction economy is that it can provide good jobs and a stable source of income for many people. Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, was almost 300,000 people calling at their home. A cost of living index above 100 means Sitka, Alaska is more expensive. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. Some communities have their own licensing requirements to follow as well. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. Here are some tips to help repel the mosquito. Situated in the far north, away from the pollution of major cities and industrial areas, Alaska is blessed with some of the cleanest air in the country. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. There are many features we have already discussed that draw people to this beautiful state. Oh, okay. Additionally, marijuana businesses are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of schools or other areas where children are present. Sitka real estate or Sitka rentals. Moving to Sitka, Alaska in 2023 - Dwellics The median home prices for homes in Anchorage are $299,000, Fairbanks $222,000, Wasilla $239,000, and $185,000 for Kenai. So if youre feeling a little down during the winter months, you may want to try sitting near a window or using a light therapy box. You get an opportunity to embrace a slower pace in life that focuses on individual dreams. While SAD is more common in areas with long, dark winters, it can also affect people who live in other parts of the world. Despite higher-than-average wages, low poverty level, and a sparse population, violent crimes are surprisingly frequent. Alaska was once thought of as a folly. Because there is plenty of sunshine deep into the night during the summer months, you will discover more opportunities to explore trails, kayak in bays, and embrace the explore waiting within. But dont just take my word for it taste it for yourself and youll see that the succulent salmon, sweet crab, and delicious halibut are all world-class. There isnt an argument to make for any other location. ), Why Is Newport Beach So Expensive? When determining what cities are good for your personality, life situation, and personal preferences, there are many factors to consider including climate, cost of living, community, job opportunities, population makeup, activities, and things to do. Thats because even if you decide that living here isnt right for you, a holiday visit still creates the perfect opportunity to relax. This park is famous for its brown bears, which can often be seen fishing for salmon in the parks rivers. A gallon of milk can cost double what it would in other states. Get yours today! It also gives you a chance to embrace the small-town charm that dominates the culture in the state. In fact, Alaska has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country. Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! This has created a diverse and vibrant cultural landscape, with over 20% of the states population being of Native American or Alaska Native descent. Chartered fishing trips are a great way to spend your time on the sea on a high-quality fishing boat that you will not have to operate or upkeep, and that allows you to fish in a variety of areas effortlessly. That money applies to every person in your family, including the kids. The Alaskan highways overall road quality and their feeder routes are good, except for some summer road construction. Here are a few of these traditions valued by the residents of the state. Pros and Cons of Living in Idaho Alaska's social life consists of activities and events very particular to their culture. Symptoms of SAD can include feelings of sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. But mushing is still an essential part of life for some Alaskans. Find flights to Alaska from $177. In 2019, the timber industry in Alaska generated over $935 million in economic activity, supporting over 5,500 jobs. Saved one of the best pros of living in Alaska for last. Oh you adventure seeker you With its rugged wilderness, stunning natural beauty, and endless opportunities for outdoor exploration, Alaska is the perfect place to let your adventurous spirit run wild. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. It can get slightly warmer in February, but it will still average around 13. Some residents have even come to see the insects as a source of entertainment, with some people holding mosquito calling contests to see who can attract the most mosquitoes with a particular sound or scent. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Alaska will cost you somewhere between $1,000 and $1,169 per month, or less in some smaller, scenic areas like Kenai. From the natural beauty of the Aleutian Islands, which has dozens of volcanoes, to the snow-covered peaks of the Denali National Park, Alaska is both overwhelming and blissful at the same time. The terrain attracts a hardy, adventure-seeking crowd, who will tell you the states unique beauty and abundant wildlife make the cold temperatures worth it. When determining what cities are good for your personality, life situation, and personal preferences, there are many factors to consider including climate, cost of living, community, job opportunities, population makeup, activities, and things to do. In fact, according to the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Alaska has the most state park land per resident of any state in the country, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. The worst thing for most people is the dreadful cold. This can be a difficult adjustment for newcomers living in Alaska. If long (and were talking looonnnggg) periods of darkness are challenging for you then moving to Alaska may not be your cup of tea. 8. To be materialistic is to have values that place a high priority on having many possessions and making large sums of money. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. Compare that with a median price of $1,596 in California and $1,150 in Florida. Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Native American, Russian, and American influences. Property taxes are generally low, and the sales tax is non-existent. Your email address will not be published. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. In fact, according to a survey conducted by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, nearly 75% of Alaska residents say that they know their neighbors well and feel a strong sense of community in their neighborhood. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. Alaska has a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities, including over 3 million acres of state park land. Blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, salmonberries can be found on Alaskas hiking trails. Looking to fill those lungs with some fresh, clean air? According to statistics from the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, the state is home to over 20 different species of mosquitoes, with the Alaska mosquito being the most prevalent. . When you live in the state, then you are 15 minutes from being out in the wild, no matter where your home happens to be. . Low crime, schools are good, etc. You will find plenty of cultural opportunities to explore in the community, with every amenity you would expect from an urban environment. In Alaska, there are two seasons, road construction and winter. Coastal towns collect more than $60 million in revenue through the docking fees and other taxes. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that the vacancy rate for rental units in Alaska is just 4.6%, which is well below the national average of 6.9%. The decision to not impose a state sales tax in Alaska is rooted in the states history and its reliance on natural resource extraction for revenue. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. Alaska receives no attention from authors and artists. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. Many families and young professionals live in Sitka. 7. Most people find that the rewards far outweigh whatever sacrifices they may need to make. Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. Dog sleds remained an essential mode of transportation even after the Gold Rush era. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary in Alaska was $77,060 in 2021. The median home price in Alaska is $337,222 which is well below the national average of 398,500. To cope, some turn to overeating, alcohol, drugs, or extended periods of sleep. Posted by: Category: Uncategorized . Find out Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska. Additionally, the states harsh weather and isolated location can be difficult for some people to adjust to, particularly those who are used to living in warmer and more urban environments. The overall crime rate in Sitka, Alaska is 8% lower than national average. Half of the current population of the state lives in the Anchorage metropolitan area.