Skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, backpacking, and snowmobiling are all activities that will become part of your life when you move here. It is important to consider these factors when looking at salary information for Alaska. Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, was almost 300,000 people calling at their home. It is held in Palmer, Alaska, in the late summer and dates back to 1936. There are about 5,000 earthquakes that happen every year in the state of Alaska. However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. Pros + Cons of Living in Sitka (pros and cons, stores, moving to They are indigenous peoples of the state. In Alaska, you will find an incredible amount of beauty. General healthcare prices within the Anchorage metro area are an astonishing 82% above the national average, based on the Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016. 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. That makes it a paradise for those who love to go hunting and fishing. Pros + Cons of Living in Sitka (Anchorage, Ketchikan: 2015, safe, bars Cost of Living in Sitka, Alaska. In addition to its incredible landscape, Alaska is also home to many glaciers, including the world famous Mendenhall Glacier. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. Looking to fill those lungs with some fresh, clean air? 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. Alaska puts you face-to-face with wildlife all of the time. 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. You will find dog sled races, whale festivals and native arts and music festivals. Median rent price. If you choose to buy a home, know that some cities exempt seniors from part of their property tax. Cons: 1 - cost of living is high. Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 1,700 species of plants and animals. One of the things that makes Alaskas air and water so clean is its location. The wildlife is as incredible as they say, 4. For someone who receives one of these dividend checks, its always a welcome boost to the old income. If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. A deadline that is more of a suggestion then a finite term. The fund was established in 1976 to conserve a portion of the states revenue from mineral resources, to help future generations of Alaskans, and attract new residents to the state. It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. Alaska receives no attention from authors and artists. In 1971, temperatures drop to a record -80F at Prospect Creek Camp. 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. Living in Alaska pays dividends, literally, 8. The frost-free growing season in Alaska lasts for about 100 days. The suns view so far north is unbelievable. There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? The industry also contributed over $2.2 billion in state and local tax revenue (talk about a vice grip). The state of Alaska does not have a state sales tax. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! The most infamous oil spill in the country occurred in 1989 with the Exxon Valdez tankers grounding, where 10.8 million gallons of crude were dumped into the ocean. 3. Some refer to mosquitoes as the states official bird, given their ubiquity and ability to survive in harsh environments. Alaska has 35 species of mosquito, and all but a few will bite humans. In fact, there are so many different types of seafood to choose from in Alaska that you could eat a different type of fish or shellfish every day for a year and still have some leftovers. The cons, however, include high gas prices and the cost of living. They are more plentiful than you may expect. 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. This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. 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! Pros; it is on an island. Compared to other locations in the country, even the southern locations of Alaska have more snowfall. Compare that with a median price of $1,596 in California and $1,150 in Florida. Here are some interesting statistics about Alaskas natural beauty: No matter where you go in Alaska, youre sure to be awestruck by the beauty of the natural world. 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. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. Exploring the wild forests, paddling a kayak through the crystal-clear waters, and taking a deep breath of the clean, fresh air, Alaska is a place where you can truly be free. It is important to note that costs are higher in Alaska because of transportation and its isolation. Dogsled racing is the primary form of mushing and thrives as an unorganized sport that provides a healthy outdoor form of winter exercise for all families. 2023 Compare Cities Overview: Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK - Best Places 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. pros and cons of living in sitka alaska - glutapak-r.com Another thing that contributes to the strong sense of community in Alaska is the fact that many people rely on one another for support in daily life. Alaska is home to the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres. Roads and transportation systems have become very reliable; however, in Alaska it hasnt always been and still isnt as easy as in other places. Most accidental deaths are from residents who die while sleeping due to carbon monoxide poisoning from clogged chimneys or faulty heaters. Thank you for taking the time to post this. Pros and Cons of Charter Fishing - Action Alaska Sportfishing As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. You can get paid to live in Alaska once you qualify. This makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. It does have the fifth lowest sales tax in the country, and the state ranks first in overall tax burden for companies. The states population is relatively small and sparsely distributed, with much of the population concentrated in the urban centers of Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. ), Why Is Newport Beach So Expensive? Besides its ideal temperatures of 60 to 80 degrees, the state also offers very long, sunshine-filled days. Fairbanks, a city known for its vibrant arts and culture scene and access to outdoor activities. Ready to head to Americas Last Frontier? The process is online, allowing you to obtain your identity numbers and file your incorporation papers in less than an hour for most businesses. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. While Alaska has diverse geographical regions with different climates, Alaska is known for its long nights and winters no matter where you go. If you are not a household that was living paycheck to paycheck, then this potential disadvantage does not apply to you. You just learn to dress for the colder weather. Living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. 4. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. The cost of groceries and health care are also higher in Alaska compared to the national average. 18 Living in Alaska Pros and Cons - Vittana.org 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. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. (Top 10 Reasons), Do not use scented lotions, soaps, or shampoos, Use a headnet for multi-day backpacking or float trips, Dont wear dark colors, as mosquitoes are attracted to them; wear khaki or neutral shades, Tight woven cotton shirts and pants are better than porous synthetics. For example, it is illegal to consume marijuana in public, and it is illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana. Here are some tips to help repel the mosquito. Thanks in advance! This is due in part to the states remote location, which makes it difficult to access certain goods and services. Alaska is a state which deals with numerous earthquakes each year. It is possible to drive from Seattle to Alaska in about 72 hours if you dont make a lot of stops along the 1,000-mile trek. If you shop strategically, especially with your rewards cards, most of the cost difference can be offset with a little creative budgeting. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. Even when the winter months come around, this attitude doesnt change. Under Alaskas marijuana laws, adults over the age of 21 are allowed to possess up to one ounce of marijuana and grow up to six plants (with no more than three being mature) for personal use. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. One of the things that makes Alaskas seafood so amazing is its location. Salmon fixed any way is a staple; also, reindeer dogs, halibut, crab, sourdough bread, and oysters are among the favorites. 1. This event helped to form the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai National Park. Because Alaska does not have an income tax, the state earns its revenues through a tax burden placed on businesses. No place is perfect not even Alaska. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. So many artists will not come to Alaska to perform. It provides vital nutrients for the body, and it is delicious! 7. Many mountain ranges, Mt Denali (tallest mountain in North America), about 100,000 glaciers, nice summers with lots of daylight. It can get extremely cold in Alaska, even during the summer months. What are the pros and cons of living in Alaska? kinda wish i could move back, . Great place to raise a family. 03 Jun. Mountain View in Anchorage is rated one of the most diverse places to live in the United States. 17 out of the 20 highest peaks in the United States are found here. However, it is important to note that marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and there are some restrictions on its use in Alaska. 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 fair includes nightly concerts, games and carnival rides, and much food unique to the state. As with many of the items on this list of pros and cons of living in Alaska, this largely depends on where you live. That is how Alaska got the name Land of the Midnight Sun.. Every day is casual Friday in this state. Copyright © 2023 Embrace Someplace | Privacy Policy | As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. McKinley. Home ownership. But there are also repelling factors that keep some away. Of the two million tourists to visit the state each year, more than half will arrive by ship. Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Native American, Russian, and American influences. During the average year, Anchorage sees over 30 inches of snow from January to March. Required fields are marked *. Oil spills continue to occur regularly in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred. 3. As a resident of Alaska, you get to experience the renowned Alaska State Fair, which is one of the best in the country. Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. A Travel Website About Portland and Oregon, Article Overview: Living in Alaska, Moving to Alaska. To cope, some turn to overeating, alcohol, drugs, or extended periods of sleep. - Anchorage housing costs are 18.0% less expensive than Sitka housing costs. You can save money in other ways by moving to Alaska as well. 2023 Compare Cities Cost of Living: Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK In addition, 71.8% of the homes in Alaska are placed somewhere between $108,722 and $435,285 in value. Please share your experience here: When we get comments from people on Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska, we publish them here. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska 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. Thanks in advance! People turnover a lot. Moving to Alaska can be a bit SAD (were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder), 5. Our cost of living indices are based on a US average of 100. The Pros of living in Sitka is that it truly is beautiful. This can be a difficult adjustment for newcomers living in Alaska. This study also included collective feelings of financial security, community pride, and good health. Additionally, the absence of a state income tax can make it more difficult for the state to respond to economic downturns or other financial challenges. Sufferers from SAD experience malaise, anxiety, and deep depression. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. Find the best and worst places to live, raise a family or retire in Alaska. In rural areas, for example, people often rely on their neighbors for help with things like shoveling snow or carpooling. 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. ZIPS IN SITKA, ALASKA 99835 Pros And Cons Of Living In Alaska, Moving to Alaska, USA, Cost of So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. Pros + Cons of Living in Sitka (Barrow, Hope: for rent, condo, house 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. Alaska has some of the best air quality in America, 10. If you want to acquire a boat in Sitka, charter boats are another terrific opportunity to check out . It is not unusual for you to start pursuing an idea today, and then be ready to start earning money in a week or two. Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. Anchorage gets about five hours of sunlight during the winter solstice, with 19 hours of pitch-black sky. 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. The highest peak in North America, Mount Denali, is located in Alaska and stands at over 20,000 feet tall. In general Sitka has a high cost of living, especially with regards to groceries and medical care. Many families can still save money because of how taxes are structured here. When you move further north in the state, thats when the cold really becomes an issue. These symptoms can be especially difficult to cope with in a place like Alaska, where the long winters can make it feel like youre living in a never-ending episode of Game of Thrones (Winter is coming, and it never seems to leave). Although the overall cost of living in Alaska is relatively high because groceries and resources need to be shipped in and imported from great distances, real estate prices are rather affordable. Highways are paved in most areas, and the amount of traffic poses no problems for commuters. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? Another thing that makes Alaska so incredible is the sense of freedom that you feel here. Get out there and meet people and you'll meet some very interesting people. 2. The best cities in Alaska depend on individual preferences and priorities. As symptoms become more severe, suicide can result. You may receive another 30 inches during the months of November and December combined. Self-employed individuals or freelancers must become a business when living in Alaska. 3. If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. From the moment you set foot in this wild, beautiful land, you can feel the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. The military base nearby and international immigration has created a cultural melting pot in the area. One of the negative effects of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on mental health. Bears are everywhere in Alaska, and they are not afraid to attack. If you love the chaos and bustling pace of New York, you will go stir crazy in Anchorage or Juneau. Some popular cities in the state include: Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska and a hub for commerce, culture, and outdoor recreation. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. Thanks for the replies! 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. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The Alaska Airlines Center was built, and famous acts now have a place to perform. Another reason why Alaskas air and water are so clean is the states commitment to protecting the environment. 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%. This can be a physically demanding and time-consuming job depending on where you live and how much it snows. Oh, okay. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK Change Cities Highlights - The Median Age in Anchorage is 5.9 years younger than in Sitka. It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. You will also need to consider the cost of the trip before deciding to travel. Pros than cons to living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their.. Magic of the 20 highest mountain peaks in States hiking, and economic The states rich history is evident when you look through its national parks, museums, artifacts, and its famed oil industry. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. When you move to Alaska, you will discover that there are military, transportation, healthcare, and construction jobs readily available. To be materialistic is to have values that place a high priority on having many possessions and making large sums of money. Prince William Sound experienced a 9.2 quake in March of that year. Because of its geographic place on the planet, winter in Alaska is not just cold; it is dark as well. 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. 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. Blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, salmonberries can be found on Alaskas hiking trails. So Alaskans are less snobby then everyone else..? 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. 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. Timber is another important resource in Alaska, with the states forests providing a source of wood for the construction and paper industries. The most notable of them is Mt. Alaska has the longest coastline of any state in the United States, at over 6,600 miles long. Here are a few of these traditions valued by the residents of the state. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. The cold really becomes a problem if you move farther north. The Alaskan sky is light nearly all night long from late May to late July, with it being light past 10 pm for another month on either side of that. when it's sunny Cons: EXPENSIVE Seems quite snobby Limited trail system and getting above treeline is a haul Rain, rain, lots and lots of rain And all the other stuff that goes with being off the road system in AK, good and bad. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. Population: 2,683. No doubt, this would attract many! Some folks I know use it toward a vacation every year. A high school education is a basic prerequisite for most . Another one of the major challenges of living in Alaska is the high cost of goods. Other cities to consider include Wasilla, Kenai, and Sitka. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. They are required to pay property taxes, but the fact that they can save on state income tax and sales tax is a considerable saving for the residents. The cost of living in Alaska can also be attractive. 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. 5. Very interesting info!Perfect just what I was looking for! (Top 10 Reasons), Why Is Cancn So Expensive? While Alaska has many incredible natural wonders, they are not always easy to get to. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. Larger cities like Fairbanks, Juneau, & Anchorage have pretty much all the amenities you could hope for as well as entertainment. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 40% of Alaskas population lives in rural areas that are considered frontier or remote.. Alaska Will Pay You to Move There Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. 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. Pros & Cons Overview Jobs80% Housing85% Affordability60% Safety60% Amenities60% Diversity90% Education85% Commute100% Is Sitka, Alaska safe place to live? Only a certain type of human decides to live in an isolated community on an Alaskan island, and none of them are boring. 5. There is some truth to this idea that is percolating around the Internet. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. Depending on where you live, and how much snow comes in the season, you could find this process to be physically demanding and time-consuming. As a result, many people end up living in small, crowded homes or temporary housing, such as trailers or cabins. Search for Alaska flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. 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. 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. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. That never happened, but it is an interesting part of U.S. history that isnt always taught in history class. While this can vary in size from year to year, it ranges from $800 to $1,100. 20 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Alaska (Local's Guide) Residents in Alaska enjoy the ultimate summer. In recent years, the amount of the dividend has ranged from a low of $900 to a high of $2,000. Pros And Cons Of Living In Alaska 2023 - Ablison That money applies to every person in your family, including the kids. 56% 12% lower than the US average. 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. Consider yourself as and adventurous sort that can forgo some creature comforts in return for epic natural bounty? McKinley, which is the tallest mountain in North America at 20,320 feet. 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. Find flights to Alaska from $177. Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. They are talking snobby by Alaska standards, which would probably translate to an average person anywhere else. Cordova. Snow removal is going to become part of your daily life. There are several opportunities to pursue your sport of choice during the summer as well. Another issue is the lack of available land for development. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. Darkness here can be a real challenge. You have to love it and love the lifestyle to justify staying long term. 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. 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. Numerous communities in the northern half of the state experience sub-zero temperatures throughout the year. The states natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and relatively low cost of living make it an appealing destination for retirees. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. 15 Reasons to Consider Moving to Alaska - Moving.com The top industries in Alaska include oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and government. One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. This means that locally-grown fruits and vegetables may only be available for a few months out of the year, further limiting options for consumers. I actually love all of 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.