For example, many Alaskans work in the fishing or oil industries, and these jobs can be well-paying and provide benefits like health insurance and retirement savings. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? Alaska has the longest coastline of any state in the United States, at over 6,600 miles long. It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. Half of the current population of the state lives in the Anchorage metropolitan area. As a local Alaskan, I can attest to the strong sense of community that exists in our state. Alaska has a very diverse climate, with temperatures and weather patterns varying widely depending on where you are in the state. When youre living in Anchorage, the temperature tends to hover around 70 in July and August. 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. 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. 8. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. You are going to be exposed to the Great Outdoors all of the time. The median values are higher for some bigger cities, such as Juneau and Anchorage, with prices averaging $364,000 and $303,000, respectively. As a result, many people end up living in small, crowded homes or temporary housing, such as trailers or cabins. However, the higher cost of living is a trade off for higher quality of living. If you have talked to people about moving to Alaska, then you might have heard that retail costs are higher in the state. It is thought that the Inuit invented dog sleds to transport supplies and food to their people. 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.. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average daily sunlight in Fairbanks, Alaska during the winter months is just 3.5 hours. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. 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. If living in a more remote area of the state and want to see the capital of Alaska, plan to take a boat or plane. Posted by: Category: Uncategorized . People are going to take an individual approach to how they manage their time. Moving to Alaska might not be quite your speed. Sitka is a city in Alaska state in USA with a population of 8569 residents..The poverty rate of Sitka is 6.6%, which is 53% lower than national average. 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. There are times when the weather and the costs of living here will be challenging. A high school education is a basic prerequisite for most . There is not the same level of hectic chaos here like there is in most of the rest of the world. Its an adventure that exceeds some folks wildest dreams and drives other people out faster than you can say Ketchikan. 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. As someone who has lived in Alaska for most of my life I can say there are some amazing things about living in Alaska and some things everyone should know before moving here. The suns view so far north is unbelievable. Bears are everywhere in Alaska, and they are not afraid to attack. Median home value. Oh, okay. The city of Ketchikan, in particular, is known for its high levels of rainfall, with an average of over 150 inches per year. 10. If bar hopping is to your liking, you will need to walk around a bit as Anchorage is very spread out. The best cities in Alaska depend on individual preferences and priorities. Oil spills continue to occur regularly in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred. 17 out of the 20 highest peaks in the United States are found here. They are indigenous peoples of the state. McKinley, which is the tallest mountain in North America at 20,320 feet. 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. The ordinary and the extraordinary. When Alaska was first established as a state in 1959, its economy was primarily based on fishing, mining, and other extractive industries. 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 states population is relatively small and sparsely distributed, with much of the population concentrated in the urban centers of Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. From small town fairs to large cultural events, there are always opportunities to come together and celebrate the things that make Alaska special. Situated in the far north, Alaska is surrounded by cold, clean ocean waters that are teeming with a wide variety of fish and shellfish. Including the: Pacific Ocean Gulf of Alaska Bering Sea Chukchi Sea Beaufort Sea The median listing home price per square foot was $202. We almost all use Helly Hansen Impertec. 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. ZIPS IN SITKA, ALASKA 99835 20 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Alaska (Local's Guide) In March of that year, Prince William Sound experienced a magnitude 9.2 earthquake. Chill, Diverse People. 56% 12% lower than the US average. 1. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. 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%. 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 the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. 25 Pro's And Con's Of Living In Alaska (2023 Updated) - Home Mindset You can whale watch in Juneau, watch or participate in dog sledding with huskies, explore ice caves, view the beauty of the Northern Lights. Cheap Flights from Los Angeles to Alaska from $177 - KAYAK Venture to Alaska if you want to see the Aurora Borealis. Located in Denali National Park. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. 3. If you are considering residency in Alaska, you need to weigh both the pros and cons to determine if Alaska is right for you. Numerous communities in the northern half of the state experience sub-zero temperatures throughout the year. Rent is only slightly cheaper than in other areas of the country. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. From its early beginnings as a bridge of land extending from Siberia to its declaration as a U.S. state in 1959, Alaska has an exciting and dynamic history. One of the things that makes Alaskan culture so interesting is its focus on the natural environment. One of the negative effects of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on mental health. Every day is casual Friday in this state. The highest peak in North America, Mount Denali, is located in Alaska and stands at over 20,000 feet tall. No doubt, this would attract many! Dont forget to budget your heating costs during the winter months. 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. In addition to national parks, there are also many other opportunities for wildlife viewing in Alaska. They are really an issue only from the second week in June to the last week in July. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016, Colorado Vs. California (Whats The Difference? 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. Alaska is the most outdoorsy state in America, 4. 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 reasons why Alaska living is amazing. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. Cons: 1 - cost of living is high. Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. A typical cruise ship produces thousands of gallons of raw sewage, garbage, wastewater, and oily bilge water from their engines. 03 Jun. Cordova. The result is your tax burden is potentially higher than it would be in some states. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2023 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED HomeMindset.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon website (amazon.com amazon.in etc) and any other website that may be affiliated with Amazon Service LLC Associates Program. Overall, the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so its important to be prepared for a range of conditions when visiting the state. 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. A gallon of milk can cost double what it would in other states. 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. 15 Reasons to Consider Moving to Alaska - Moving.com Skagway vs. Sitka - Which Is A Better Travel Destination? This makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. Because of the risk of contamination and sickness, prepare to filter or treat the water if necessary. 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. 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 When you start thinking about the jobs that are open in Alaska, two industries come to mind immediately: the oil industry, and the natural gas industry. Once you live here for a year or two, it is not unusual to encounter someone youve never met, but they already feel like they know you. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. Living in Alaska - Pros and Cons & Cost of Living - WTS What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in Alaska? 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. 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. It is important to note that costs are higher in Alaska because of transportation and its isolation. 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. That money applies to every person in your family, including the kids. There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. Through its established Permanent Fund Dividend Program, Alaska will pay you to move there. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. The most notable of them is Mt. Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. kinda wish i could move back, . 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. This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. Homes in Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the country. 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. For those who live outside of this metroplex, the only option tends to be heating oil, which is much more expensive. 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. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. These events are associated with the Aleutian Trench, a subduction zone, where the Pacific plate is pushed under the American continents crust. This is due in part to the states remote location, which makes it difficult to access certain goods and services. Lets get started! 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. You will not find this type of behavior among the residents of Alaska. Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 1,700 species of plants and animals. The cost of living in Alaska is really high. 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. It is really easy to start a business after you move to Alaska. That is how Alaska got the name Land of the Midnight Sun.. Because it is a lot colder in Alaska than in other states, your heating costs during the winter are going to be significantly higher. The constant buzzing and biting can be annoying, and in some cases, mosquitoes can even transmit diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria. 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. This dividend comes from a permanent fund that is fueled by the oil and gas industry industries. One of the things that makes Alaskas air and water so clean is its location. A buddy of mine brought Sitka gear to Kodiak last fall. (Top 10 Reasons), Why Is Cancn So Expensive? With its spectacular beauty, many recreational opportunities, and plentiful wildlife, there is an adventure at every turn in Americas last frontier. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska Home ownership. The daily commute in Alaskan cities is one of breathtaking views of lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and gleaming glaciers, which would make driving to work a pleasure for most residents. 4. Low crime, schools are good, etc. Sitka has 15 fishing charter companies, while Skagway only has three. Living in Alaska Pros and Cons Pros You will experience the great outdoors in Alaska in a way that you never have before. Moving to Alaska, United States. As symptoms become more severe, suicide can result. Life tends to move a lot slower when living in Alaska. 2. Another negative effect of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on your safety. Very interesting info!Perfect just what I was looking for! Alaska has some of the best air quality in America, 10. In fact, over half of the land in Alaska is protected wilderness, ensuring that these beautiful landscapes will be preserved for generations to come. The rise of other modes of transportation, such as planes, trains, and snowmachines, has reduced the need for dog sleds as a mode of transportation. This check is a way for the state to share the wealth generated by the states oil and mineral resources with its residents. The violent crime rate of Sitka is 52% lower than national average. Best Places to Live in Fairbanks, Alaska The states rich history is evident when you look through its national parks, museums, artifacts, and its famed oil industry. There are also initiatives to support the development of greenhouses and other methods of growing produce in the state. Timber is another important resource in Alaska, with the states forests providing a source of wood for the construction and paper industries. The state also experiences powerful volcanic eruptions from time to time, including the most powerful of the 20th century at Novarupta Volcano. 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 states remote location and difficult climate make it more expensive to transport goods and services to and from the state, which drives up the cost of living. Highways are paved in most areas, and the amount of traffic poses no problems for commuters. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. 3. The more rural cities can feel like youre on the surface of the moon. Dog sleds remained an essential mode of transportation even after the Gold Rush era. Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. The trails in the city are closed frequently because of bear activity. 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 + Cons of Living in Sitka (pros and cons, stores, moving to Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? According to Realtor.com, Anchorage's median listing home price was $339,000 in February 2022, trending up 7.9% year-over-year. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. The lack of available housing in Alaska, particularly in rural areas, can make it difficult for residents to find a place to live. 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 expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. However, others are concerned that a sales tax could be detrimental to the states economy and place an additional burden on residents and businesses. Youll experience a shorter summer, but it wont be a jarring difference. The distinctive demographics in this unique area offer a feeling of pride in the residents. Alaska does not have a state income tax or a state sales tax, which can help to offset the high cost of living. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. The payment in 2017 was $1,100 per person. Moving to Alaska can be a bit SAD (were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder), 5. 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. 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. It would soon become a vital investment for the United States, as the purchase allowed for an expansion at the cost of just two cents per acre. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. 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. In addition to outdoor activities, there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks together throughout the year. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. In fact, according to the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, over half of the households in rural Alaska are considered overcrowded.. Looking to fill those lungs with some fresh, clean air? It can get slightly warmer in February, but it will still average around 13. Sitka Housing Options Homes For Sale New Homes Even with strict regulations and watchdog groups, cruise ships still pollute the pristine waters they travel through. The cost of living in Alaska is higher than the national average. You can get paid to live in Alaska once you qualify. Population 8,518 View Nearby Homes Alaska Real Estate Median Home Value $367,800 National $244,900 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. Another reason why Alaskas air and water are so clean is the states commitment to protecting the environment. 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. In 2019, the timber industry in Alaska generated over $935 million in economic activity, supporting over 5,500 jobs. It is important to consider these factors when looking at salary information for Alaska. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. This can be a physically demanding and time-consuming job depending on where you live and how much it snows. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that is related to the changing seasons. Get out there and meet people and you'll meet some very interesting people. it's cool - pros and cons of anchorage - 9/5/2022 it's nice, i liked it when i grew up there. As a local in Alaska, I can say with 100% certainty (according to my taste buds) that the fresh seafood here is absolutely top-notch. 6. Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. The cold really becomes a problem if you move farther north. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. Another thing that makes Alaska so incredible is the sense of freedom that you feel here. Beautiful Maltese Dogs Of Hobart Bay, Alaska - Premier Pups 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. 9. That makes it a paradise for those who love to go hunting and fishing. Another issue is the lack of available land for development. Pros + Cons of Living in Sitka (Barrow, Hope: for rent, condo, house Some argue that a sales tax could provide a stable source of revenue for the state and help to fund important government services. Juneau, the state capital and a popular destination for its historic downtown and nearby outdoor attractions. Consider yourself as and adventurous sort that can forgo some creature comforts in return for epic natural bounty? 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. The median values are higher for some of the bigger cities, with Anchorage and Juneau standing at $303,601 and $364,295, respectively. That means your tax burden is potentially higher than what it would be in some other states. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. Looking to move to Alaska to save on taxes? 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. It typically occurs during the fall and winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. Even when the winter months come around, this attitude doesnt change. Residents in Alaska enjoy the ultimate summer. The state median home value is $265,000, with 71% of the homes in the state priced between $108,000 and $435,000. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. The average high temperature for the city in the month of January is 0. Moose attacks are a prevalent thing in Alaska. They can be triggered by landslides, volcanic eruptions, or earthquakes. 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. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cost of living in Alaska is 29.5% higher than the national average. You will find plenty of cultural opportunities to explore in the community, with every amenity you would expect from an urban environment. McKinley. However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. The name Alaska comes from the Aleut word alyeska, which means great land.. The state earns its revenues through a tax burden on businesses, as Alaska does not have an income tax. Pros & Cons Overview Jobs80% Housing85% Affordability60% Safety60% Amenities60% Diversity90% Education85% Commute100% Is Sitka, Alaska safe place to live? This study also included collective feelings of financial security, community pride, and good health. 7. So Alaskans are less snobby then everyone else..? B- Sitka Schools HS graduation rate is equal to Alaska. Snow removal is going to become part of your daily life. Watching these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Alaska was once thought of as a folly. 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. This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Reasons not to move to Alaska. Find flights to Alaska from $177. Many mountain ranges, Mt Denali (tallest mountain in North America), about 100,000 glaciers, nice summers with lots of daylight. Many of Alaskas rivers are perfect for whitewater rafting, cruise the coastal waters by boat or take a flightseeing tour of glaciers. Cities Near Sitka: Port Alexander, Tenakee Springs, Prince of Wales census subarea, Hoonah-Angoon census subarea, Angoon As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. Alaska has the best summers in the world. Iditarod mushers will take you on a dog sled ride, share stories about the race, and let you pet and cuddle with the sled dogs. Meeting start whenever the people involved feel like making them happen. To be materialistic is to have values that place a high priority on having many possessions and making large sums of money. Alaska is a good place to retire for people who love nature, dont live on a fixed income, and are alright with harsh weather. 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.