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Darkness here can be a real challenge. 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. Not many states are as beautiful as Alaska. Some argue that a sales tax could provide a stable source of revenue for the state and help to fund important government services. 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. According to Realtor.com, Anchorage's median listing home price was $339,000 in February 2022, trending up 7.9% year-over-year. The cost of groceries and health care are also higher in Alaska compared to the national average. Anchorage gets about five hours of sunlight during the winter solstice, with 19 hours of pitch-black sky. 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. You will also need to consider the cost of the trip before deciding to travel. If you are a married couple with four children, then you received a $6,600 PFT payment. 2. There is not a state income tax that is withheld from your paycheck. There are various communities in the northern half of the state that experience sub-zero temperatures all year long. The high cost of goods in Alaska can be particularly burdensome for low-income individuals and families, who may struggle to afford the necessities of daily life. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. 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. That makes it a paradise for those who love to go hunting and fishing. Thanks in advance! The majority of people in the state are homeowners, however. 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. A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. Many mountain ranges, Mt Denali (tallest mountain in North America), about 100,000 glaciers, nice summers with lots of daylight. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The rest of the state is largely rural and sparsely populated. Compare that with a median price of $1,596 in California and $1,150 in Florida. Alaska is also a state of mountains. In the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. Yes, Alaska is generally considered to be a very tax-friendly state for residents. In fact, Alaska has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. Alaska has some of the best air quality in America, 10. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. 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. Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. 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. The largest employers in Alaska include the state government, the University of Alaska, and the military, as well as companies in the oil and gas industry such as BP and ConocoPhillips. That means your tax burden is potentially higher than what it would be in some other states. The Natural Splendor If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. Dwellics instantly analyzes thousands of relevant data points and your selected preferences like lifestyle, weather, community and more to find the perfect place for you to live. That is how Alaska got the name Land of the Midnight Sun.. 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. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time . Get out there and meet people and you'll meet some very interesting people. Alaskas nearness to the Arctic Circle means that day hours vary in intensity and length. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 1,700 species of plants and animals. The state median home value is $265,000, with 71% of the homes in the state priced between $108,000 and $435,000. Situated in the far north, Alaska is surrounded by cold, clean ocean waters that are teeming with a wide variety of fish and shellfish. 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. This can be a difficult adjustment for newcomers living in Alaska. Thank you for taking the time to post this. The cost of housing in particular is high in the state, with the average home price in Alaska being nearly twice the national average. Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. Lets get started! It typically occurs during the fall and winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. 8. 1. If you have talked to people about moving to Alaska, then you might have heard that retail costs are higher in the state. Alaska has the best summers in the world. The result is your tax burden is potentially higher than it would be in some states. The top industries in Alaska include oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and government. Living in Alaska could just be for you. 6. 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. You have to love it and love the lifestyle to justify staying long term. Get yours today! Alaska does not have a state income tax or a state sales tax, which can help to offset the high cost of living. Alaska has a very diverse climate, with temperatures and weather patterns varying widely depending on where you are in the state. This is due in part to the states remote location, which makes it difficult to access certain goods and services. The cost of living in Alaska can also be attractive. This park is home to many different species of animals, including bears, moose, caribou, and wolves. 25 Pros of Living in Alaska There are many reasons why Alaska living is amazing. If you decide to make your home around Anchorage when you move to Alaska, then the weather will feel somewhat temperate. The pros: pretty low crime rate (although it's growing more and more every year . 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. Every day is casual Friday in this state. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. 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. We are passionate about home decor, design, and all things home related. These blood-sucking insects are most active during the warmer months of the year, typically from May to September. Living in Alaska Pros and Cons Pros You will experience the great outdoors in Alaska in a way that you never have before. (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. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. Chill, Diverse People. There are many features we have already discussed that draw people to this beautiful state. Then there are the Northern Lights that you can see frequently dance across the sky all winter long. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. And the road systems are fine with me, too. Cons; it is on an island. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? Pros: Nice, quiet small town Good controls on development; no big box stores or too many chain stores, etc Beautiful esp. what was necessary before the mariner could be restored to life again +91 88380 06318 Springwater, without a doubt, is considered the best water to drink. From small town fairs to large cultural events, there are always opportunities to come together and celebrate the things that make Alaska special. Snow removal is going to become part of your daily life. The most vigorous earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. Prices for both of those items are obscene. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average annual precipitation in Alaska is over 20 inches, making it the fifth rainiest state in the country. 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. The cons, however, include high gas prices and the cost of living. It provides vital nutrients for the body, and it is delicious! Cordova has a small-town vibe due to its tiny population of fewer than 3,000 people and is only accessible by ferry. 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. Contrary to what many people believe, living in Alaska is actually quite expensive with the cost of living nearly 30% higher than the national average. The strongest earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. In recent years, the amount of the dividend has ranged from a low of $900 to a high of $2,000. Median home value. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. Alaska puts you face-to-face with wildlife all of the time. 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. Because there are fewer consumers in the state, businesses may have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs and remain profitable. You just learn to dress for the colder weather. There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. Some of these longstanding traditions may seem odd to outsiders, but they are captivating and essential to the residents living throughout the rural villages and more populated areas in Alaska. 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 seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! Looking to move to Alaska to save on taxes? Instead, it relies on other sources of revenue, such as taxes on oil and natural gas production, to fund state government services. The most notable of them is Mt. The public schools in Sitka are above average. The temperatures dropped to a record of minus 80F in 1971 at Prospect Creek Camp. Alaska receives no attention from authors and artists. The climate is severe, and the strain of life can demand a heavy price. 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. For example, if the price of oil drops or there is a decline in the demand for fish, it can have a negative impact on the states economy. 4BD are closer to $2500. So many artists will not come to Alaska to perform. This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. The states rich history is evident when you look through its national parks, museums, artifacts, and its famed oil industry. However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. The state of Alaska has the lowest taxes in the United States. Much of the land in Alaska is owned by the federal government, and there are strict regulations on how it can be used. Population: 2,683. Many families and young professionals live in Sitka. 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. Electricity and gas bills are 33% above the national average in Alaska. Alaska has 35 species of mosquito, and all but a few will bite humans. 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. Pros; it is on an island. Outdoor activities are literally endless for the adventure-seeking individual. That is due to the higher cost of transportation and the isolation factor of the state. 1. In addition to the high cost and limited availability of fresh produce, the growing season in Alaska is relatively short due to the states harsh climate. The sunsets in Alaska are regarded as the most beautiful on earth. Furthermore, Alaska is a state surrounded by pristine bodies of water. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. Living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. There are still the regular responsibilities that you have with life, like your job and going to school, but the outdoors becomes a third one that is a lot of fun to embrace. You can get paid to live in Alaska once you qualify. 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. big sur carmel, monterey itinerary . 8. 3. While SAD is more common in areas with long, dark winters, it can also affect people who live in other parts of the world. If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska is for you. Mushing is a sport or mode of transportation powered by dogs. 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. It can get extremely cold in Alaska, even during the summer months. They used Attu and Kiska has a potential launching point if they were ever going to try to invade the continental 48 states. 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. Maltese Dog Pictures . When you live in Alaska, the outdoors is no longer an afterthought. The distinctive demographics in this unique area offer a feeling of pride in the residents. If you want to work as a freelancer or be self-employed, then you must become a business when you live in the state. 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. Another reason why Alaskas air and water are so clean is the states commitment to protecting the environment. 09-28-2015, 02:38 PM rntim Location: sitka, Alaska 279 posts, read 362,335 times Reputation: 381 I live in Sitka. Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. It is really easy to start a business after you move to Alaska. With the best natural resources and wild game worldwide, you can live off the land with subsistence hunting, which is taking game animals by a resident of a state for maintaining or supporting oneself at the minimum level needed for subsistence. If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. Living in Sitka Alaska Everyday life in Sitka, Alaska. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. Alaska is home to over 100 species of mammals, including brown bears, moose, wolves & over 400 species of birds, including bald eagles and puffins. It is important to note that costs are higher in Alaska because of transportation and its isolation. Another reason why Alaskas seafood is so fantastic is the variety. To cope, some turn to overeating, alcohol, drugs, or extended periods of sleep. Other cities to consider include Wasilla, Kenai, and Sitka. Terrific information. (Top 10 Reasons), Why Is Cancn So Expensive? it's cool - pros and cons of anchorage - 9/5/2022 it's nice, i liked it when i grew up there. Eskimo ice cream is a native dish made with whipped fat from the hunted animals such as reindeer, bears, seals, combined with snow and wild berries. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. The states natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and relatively low cost of living make it an appealing destination for retirees. Sitka is on an island and the only access is by plane or boat. Search for Alaska flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. One reason is the states location near the ocean. 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. Sufferers from SAD experience malaise, anxiety, and deep depression. Alaska is the most outdoorsy state in America, 4. 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 fair includes nightly concerts, games and carnival rides, and much food unique to the state. Sitka Housing Options Homes For Sale New Homes Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Native American, Russian, and American influences. Except for areas where there is a concentration of wood-burning for home heating, the air quality is the freshest in the world. The median values are higher for some bigger cities, such as Juneau and Anchorage, with prices averaging $364,000 and $303,000, respectively. Sitka has 15 fishing charter companies, while Skagway only has three. Great idea. 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. You will find plenty of cultural opportunities to explore in the community, with every amenity you would expect from an urban environment. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. One of the things that makes Alaskas seafood so amazing is its location. Alaska Maltese puppy, we encourage you to browse our selection and reach out to us with any questions you may have. 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. . You can embrace the life, or you can try to fight the elements. Rent is only slightly cheaper than in other areas of the country. The highest peak in North America, Mount Denali, is located in Alaska and stands at over 20,000 feet tall. A buddy of mine brought Sitka gear to Kodiak last fall. Thanks for the replies! For example, some communities have established local farmers markets or community gardens where residents can purchase locally-grown produce. 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. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. 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. In more recent years, Alaska has also been influenced by the cultures of European explorers and settlers, as well as more recent immigrants from various parts of the world. In 1971, temperatures drop to a record -80F at Prospect Creek Camp. The best cities in Alaska depend on individual preferences and priorities. $1,019 7% higher than the US average. People are going to take an individual approach to how they manage their time. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). 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. 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. That money applies to every person in your family, including the kids. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. We almost all use Helly Hansen Impertec. Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. The military base nearby and international immigration has created a cultural melting pot in the area. 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. 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. $341,600 85% higher than the US average. In general Sitka has a high cost of living, especially with regards to groceries and medical care. This makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. Hunting options include grouse, hare, mountain goat or brown bear, hunting in the rainforest region. That never happened, but it is an interesting part of U.S. history that isnt always taught in history class. That makes it the third-highest state for average prices in this area. Our cost of living indices are based on a US average of 100. Mountain View in Anchorage is rated one of the most diverse places to live in the United States. Some communities have their own licensing requirements to follow as well. Alaska offers you plenty of small-town charm, even in the big cities. While bear attacks always make the headlines, they are few compared to the number of people who die of exposure in the extreme cold. Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. 5. The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. Dont forget to budget your heating costs during the winter months. 03 Jun. Backpacking, canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, hang gliding, and so much more are available in Alaska because the summers are perfect for them. Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska. This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. In other words, its the Arctic Circle of flavor. 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. It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. The low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. One common misconception about SAD is that it only affects people who live in cold climates. This is higher than the national median salary, which was $45,790 during the same time period. Spokesperson for the group said they have spent the last few months considering the pros and cons of moving forward this year despite the risks and uncertainty associated with the . Maybe living in Alaska is your pace. 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%. 17 out of the 20 highest peaks in the United States are found here. Self-employed individuals or freelancers must become a business when living in Alaska. As a result, many people end up living in small, crowded homes or temporary housing, such as trailers or cabins. Meeting start whenever the people involved feel like making them happen. 6. Because food, other than the local food, needs to travel a great distance to get there, the prices are relatively high. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. To maximize your chances of seeing them, Prudhoe Bay and Barrow in the extreme north or the remote northern villages of Coldfoot in the Yukon Territory offer the best possibility of viewing the Lights. Your email address will not be published. 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. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. In 2019, the timber industry in Alaska generated over $935 million in economic activity, supporting over 5,500 jobs. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? The entire state of Alaska has a laid-back feel. This means that the states economy is heavily dependent on its natural resources, which can be a good thing but also has its challenges (outside of the obvious ones like massive negative contributions to climate change). There are several positions that help to support the tourism industry in the state as well. The expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. In Sitka there are a lot of bars and coffee shops. 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. Soon after the ships hull was ruptured, Prince William Sound was filled with oil. The process is online, allowing you to obtain your identity numbers and file your incorporation papers in less than an hour for most businesses. 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. The frost-free growing season in Alaska lasts for about 100 days. The median rent for a studio and one-bedroom in Alaska is $17 and $21 cheaper than the national average in 2019. So, while the darkness in Alaska can be beautiful and magical at times, it can also be a real challenge.