The cost of living in Alaska can also be attractive. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. From small town fairs to large cultural events, there are always opportunities to come together and celebrate the things that make Alaska special. Pros and Cons of Living in Idaho Alaska's social life consists of activities and events very particular to their culture. Bears are everywhere in Alaska, and they are not afraid to attack. In March of that year, Prince William Sound experienced a magnitude 9.2 earthquake. Prices for both of those items are obscene. 1. The frost-free growing season in Alaska lasts for about 100 days. Because of the risk of contamination and sickness, prepare to filter or treat the water if necessary. The worst thing for most people is the dreadful cold. A gallon of milk can cost double what it would in other states. Springwater, without a doubt, is considered the best water to drink. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. Hotel costs, gas, food, etc., need to figure into your decision. In addition to the high cost of transporting goods to the state, the small population of Alaska also contributes to the high prices of goods. Compare Sitka, Alaska Cost of Living vs Anchorage, Alaska Cost of Living: Taxes, Childcare, Groceries, Health. Alaska has 35 species of mosquito, and all but a few will bite humans. 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. Much of the land in Alaska is owned by the federal government, and there are strict regulations on how it can be used. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. Smaller places with 1 BD are cheaper but if you have a family, 3BD are $1500/mo and up. The pros and cons of living in Alaska involve what you are willing to embrace so that you can have year-round access to all of the outdoor opportunities that exist in the state. Venture to Alaska if you want to see the Aurora Borealis. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time . 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.. D Sitka Housing Home value is 33% higher than Alaska. 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. Then the next largest community is Wasilla, with just 10,000 residents. While Alaska has diverse geographical regions with different climates, Alaska is known for its long nights and winters no matter where you go. 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. As with many of the items on this list of pros and cons of living in Alaska, this largely depends on where you live. A Travel Website About Portland and Oregon, Article Overview: Living in Alaska, Moving to Alaska. Saved one of the best pros of living in Alaska for last. That money applies to every person in your family, including the kids. Find out Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska. With strict regulations on pollution and development, as well as a strong focus on conservation and sustainable resource management, Alaska takes its role as a steward of the environment very seriously. I've been thinking of moving to Sitka for a while, but i wanted to know some pros and cons of living there from someone who does live there or has visited there. Additionally, the tourism industry is a major contributor to the states economy, with many visitors coming to Alaska to see its natural beauty and participate in outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting. PRO: Lots of wild animals. Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. Additionally, Alaskas coastal location means that it is often hit by storms, which can bring even more precipitation. Despite their small size, mosquitoes can be a big problem in Alaska, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and those who live in rural areas. However, Alaska has some of the highest prices for goods and services in the country, and this can be a major hurdle for retirees on a fixed income. Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). Pros of Moving to Alaska 1. There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. The high cost of living in Alaska can be a challenge for many people, particularly for those on fixed incomes or low salaries. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. You can spend lots of time hiking, fishing, whale watching. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. Some argue that a sales tax could provide a stable source of revenue for the state and help to fund important government services. In the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. Pros; it is on an island. Some parts of the state see nearly 24 hours of daylight during the season. Cost of Living in Sitka, Alaska. 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. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). As so many people today communicate by cell phone or send text messages, use the Internet, etc., this can be an inconvenience difficult to deal with. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. The states leaders at the time believed that a state sales tax would be burdensome for businesses and residents, and opted not to impose one. It is thought that the Inuit invented dog sleds to transport supplies and food to their people. Oil spills continue to occur regularly in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred. B- Sitka Schools HS graduation rate is equal to Alaska. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. It is one of the few places in the world where someone with virtually no experience can still catch enough fish or hunt as a way to feed their family for an entire year. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Moose and caribou are abundant throughout Alaska. Juneau, the state capital and a popular destination for its historic downtown and nearby outdoor attractions. The median home prices for homes in Anchorage are $299,000, Fairbanks $222,000, Wasilla $239,000, and $185,000 for Kenai. For most rural residents in Alaska, subsistence hunting is critical to their food security, nutrition, and economic stability. Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. You have to love it and love the lifestyle to justify staying long term. Situated in the far north, Alaska is surrounded by cold, clean ocean waters that are teeming with a wide variety of fish and shellfish. So Alaskans are less snobby then everyone else..? Alaska has a very diverse climate, with temperatures and weather patterns varying widely depending on where you are in the state. Darkness here can be a real challenge. The typical household in Sitka earns $81708 a year, compared to the national median of $67,500.Nearly 29.1% of households earn less than $50,000 a year compared to 39% national rate. The costs make the town kind of love it or leave it. The name Alaska comes from the Aleut word alyeska, which means great land.. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. You can embrace the life, or you can try to fight the elements. No place is perfect not even Alaska. With a strong feeling of purpose in our nation and a sense of contentment, Alaska residents are generally at peace and very happy with the place they call home. Watching these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. In fact, according to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, Alaska is home to over 200 Native American tribes and language groups, making it one of the most diverse states in the country in terms of indigenous cultures. This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. Life tends to move a lot slower when living in Alaska. The best cities in Alaska depend on individual preferences and priorities. That gives you plenty of time to start exploring the 300 miles of trails that are around this one city. That makes it a paradise for those who love to go hunting and fishing. ), Why Is Newport Beach So Expensive? Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, was almost 300,000 people calling at their home. Pros and Cons of Charter Fishing. Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016, Colorado Vs. California (Whats The Difference? Another thing that makes Alaska so incredible is the sense of freedom that you feel here. According to Realtor.com, Anchorage's median listing home price was $339,000 in February 2022, trending up 7.9% year-over-year. 3. The states rugged landscape and extreme climate have shaped the way of life of its residents, and this can be seen in many aspects of the culture. If long (and were talking looonnnggg) periods of darkness are challenging for you then moving to Alaska may not be your cup of tea. However, the higher cost of living is a trade off for higher quality of living. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. Cons: 1 - cost of living is high. The cost of living in Alaska is really high. The fair is nearly two weeks long and is Alaskas largest annual event. 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. The state of Alaska does not have a state sales tax. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. 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. This means that our seafood is not only fresh, but it also has a unique flavor that cant be found anywhere else in the world. 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. Homes in Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the country. Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. Alaska Maltese puppy, we encourage you to browse our selection and reach out to us with any questions you may have. In fact, over half of the land in Alaska is protected wilderness, ensuring that these beautiful landscapes will be preserved for generations to come. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. Sitka real estate or Sitka rentals. Half of the current population of the state lives in the Anchorage metropolitan area. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cost of living in Alaska is 29.5% higher than the national average. ZIPS IN SITKA, ALASKA 99835 At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. According to the Bureau of Vital Statistics, approximately 400 people a year come to an untimely death in Alaska, making it the second most deadly state in the country behind Mississippi. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. Dog sleds remained an essential mode of transportation even after the Gold Rush era. The Natural Splendor If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. After living in the state for a full calendar year, residents will qualify for what is called the PFD payment. Alaska is a beautiful and unique state with a lot to offer retirees. But mushing is still an essential part of life for some Alaskans. Property taxes are generally low, and the sales tax is non-existent. In fact, Alaska ranks in the top three states for the highest seafood harvest in the country, with over 5 billion dollars worth of seafood caught each year. The most notable of them is Mt. This event caused the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai Park. In addition, the states economy is heavily dependent on the oil industry, which can be volatile and contribute to fluctuations in the cost of living. Mountain View in Anchorage is rated one of the most diverse places to live in the United States. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Alaska is home to more than half of the worlds brown bears and is the only state in the U.S. where you can find all three species of North American bears: the grizzly, black, and polar bears. There is not a state income tax that is withheld from your paycheck. 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. That is true because of the added transportation costs to move goods that far north. Even if you make your home in Anchorage, there is an excellent chance that you will encounter a moose at least once per day. Get out there and meet people and you'll meet some very interesting people. Youll experience a shorter summer, but it wont be a jarring difference. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. If you decide to move in or around Anchorage, the weather may feel somewhat temperate, but you will experience a shorter summer. Located in Denali National Park. Living in Alaska could just be for you. Compared to other locations in the country, even the southern locations of Alaska have more snowfall. Whether youre hiking through the towering peaks of the Alaska Range, fishing for wild salmon in a glacial stream, or simply gazing at the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you, Alaska has a way of making you feel alive like nowhere else on earth. In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. If you are thinking about moving to Alaska then prepare to combat SAD. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. If you love the chaos and bustling pace of New York, you will go stir crazy in Anchorage or Juneau. You heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important then living in Alaska just got easier. Commercial fishing is another occupation that many households practice in the state. Many people gather to watch the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race or take dog sled tours while visiting a great way to experience a little history. Skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, backpacking, and snowmobiling are all activities that will become part of your life when you move here. In fact, data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that the poverty rate in Alaska is higher than the national average, with 13.4% of residents living in poverty compared to the national average of 11.8%. There are many reasons why Alaska living is amazing. This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. The wildlife is as incredible as they say, 4. Alaska is a vast and very remote state with many communities being extremely isolated from the rest of the country. Driving from Alaska to Seattle in 72 hours is possible if you dont make too many stops along the 1,000-mile trip. That never happened, but it is an interesting part of U.S. history that isnt always taught in history class. The Alaskan highways overall road quality and their feeder routes are good, except for some summer road construction. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 40% of Alaskas population lives in rural areas that are considered frontier or remote.. Because of its remote location, much of the produce consumed in the state must be shipped in from other parts of the country or even abroad. The most notable of them is Mt. However, others are concerned that a sales tax could be detrimental to the states economy and place an additional burden on residents and businesses. After all, as they say, laughter is the best medicine, and theres no shortage of dark humor to be found in the Land of the Midnight Sun. One of the things that makes Alaskan culture so interesting is its focus on the natural environment. A high school education is a basic prerequisite for most . Economy largely dependent on resource extraction, Summary of the Pros & Cons of Living in Alaska, 15 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Los Angeles, California, 15 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Orlando, Florida (Locals Guide), 15 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Hawaii. One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. (Top 10 Reasons), Why Is Cancn So Expensive? You can get paid to live in Alaska once you qualify. Electricity and gas bills are 33% above the national average in Alaska. One of the things that makes the sense of community so strong is the fact that many Alaskans are involved in outdoor activities together such as fishing, hunting, and hiking. Because of the states remote location, many goods must be shipped in from other parts of the country or even abroad, which can drive up their cost. 5. And the road systems are fine with me, too. Alaska is the most outdoorsy state in America, 4. The law went into effect on February 24, 2015, making Alaska the third state in the United States to legalize marijuana for recreational use, after Colorado and Washington. This study also included collective feelings of financial security, community pride, and good health. The money can be used for anything that I choose, from paying bills to saving for a rainy day. Some popular cities in the state include: Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska and a hub for commerce, culture, and outdoor recreation. Hike through Denali National Park or cruise the Seward Highway. McKinley. Milestones such as the Klondike Gold Rush, the Good Friday Earthquake, and the passing of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act reserved millions of acres for preservation throughout the state. Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. Try Premium; Log In Sign Up. Even though the economy of Alaska is fueled by the oil and gas industry, you will discover that the cost of gasoline is much higher than it is in the continental 48 states. Additionally, marijuana businesses are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of schools or other areas where children are present. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. pros and cons of living in sitka alaskaswiffer commercial actress 2020. junio 1, 2022 . The average high temperature for the city in the month of January is 0. The low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. Find the best and worst places to live, raise a family or retire in Alaska. In Alaska, there are two seasons, road construction and winter. The lack of available housing in Alaska, particularly in rural areas, can make it difficult for residents to find a place to live. The fair includes nightly concerts, games and carnival rides, and much food unique to the state. That means you can have some extra cash to save for a new home, college tuition costs, or the outdoor toys you will want to use as you start exploring the millions of acres of wilderness. Visitors and residents can view them between September and late April. Get yours today! Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. First of all, Alaska is a state of mountains. They are indigenous peoples of the state. Median listing prices for other top cities in Alaska include $270,000 for Fairbanks, $339,900 for homes in Wasilla, and $250,000 for homes in Kenai. Great idea. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. However, this is not the case. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. Maltese Dog Pictures . The distinctive demographics in this unique area offer a feeling of pride in the residents. The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. 5. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. 9. 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. There is some truth to this idea that is percolating around the Internet. 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! A typical cruise ship produces thousands of gallons of raw sewage, garbage, wastewater, and oily bilge water from their engines. 8. One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. But what made it more notable was the pristine setting where it took place. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. 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. The summer season is also an enjoyable time in the state, with long days, plenty of sunshine, and a mild climate. Lets get started! Moving to Alaska might not be quite your speed. This expense is one of the most significant costs that you will face as a household if you decide to move here. The states rich history is evident when you look through its national parks, museums, artifacts, and its famed oil industry. Keep in mind that these opinions are based merely on my own time here and others may have other experiences. If you choose to buy a home, know that some cities exempt seniors from part of their property tax. One common misconception about SAD is that it only affects people who live in cold climates. If bar hopping is to your liking, you will need to walk around a bit as Anchorage is very spread out. One thing Alaskans are very proud of is our clean air and water quality, I can confidently say that the air and water here are absolutely pristine. Symptoms of SAD can include feelings of sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. Expect to pay about $.45 per gallon more for your fuel needs when you move to the state. Usually, once people settle here, they want to remain. Every winter, thousands of Alaskans suffer from SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder. People turnover a lot. Even the sidewalks can be dangerous after a snowfall. Despite its reputation for cold weather and snow, Alaska is actually one of the rainiest states in the United States. Thanks for the replies! Living in Alaska pays dividends, literally, 8. However, you must be aware of what you are eating, as some might be poisonous. 4BD are closer to $2500. The biggest problem, however, is accessibility. A buddy of mine brought Sitka gear to Kodiak last fall. There are times when the weather and the costs of living here will be challenging. It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. Pros: Nice, quiet small town Good controls on development; no big box stores or too many chain stores, etc Beautiful esp. You can whale watch in Juneau, watch or participate in dog sledding with huskies, explore ice caves, view the beauty of the Northern Lights. Alaska ranks second to Wyoming for the highest rate of suicide in the country. You may receive another 30 inches during the months of November and December combined. With the long, dark winters, its not uncommon for roads and sidewalks to be covered in ice and snow, making everyday tasks all the more treacherous. Another reason why Alaskas seafood is so fantastic is the variety. Subsistence hunting occurs throughout Alaska all year long and is a central focus of the traditions and customs of many of the cultural groups in Alaska. In fact, according to the EPA, over 90% of the air quality monitoring sites in Alaska have air quality that is classified as good or moderate,. You have to be careful, though, since it is wilderness, and while they have a good Search and Rescue, sometimes they never find people who get lost, besides danger of slides, injuries. 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. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. One reason is the states location near the ocean. 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. You will find dog sled races, whale festivals and native arts and music festivals. 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.