Alaska is a state which deals with numerous earthquakes each year. That means your tax burden is potentially higher than what it would be in some other states. Your email address will not be published. Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. This study also included collective feelings of financial security, community pride, and good health. The sunsets in Alaska are regarded as the most beautiful on earth. 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. The state of Alaska does not have a state sales tax. If you have talked to people about moving to Alaska, then you might have heard that retail costs are higher in the state. 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. Keep in mind that these opinions are based merely on my own time here and others may have other experiences. The states rich history is evident when you look through its national parks, museums, artifacts, and its famed oil industry. The cost of groceries and health care are also higher in Alaska compared to the national average. This becomes obvious if you have a family emergency happening outside the state. 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. If you are considering residency in Alaska, you need to weigh both the pros and cons to determine if Alaska is right for you. If youre thinking of moving to Alaska, its important to be prepared for rain lots of it. 3. The states natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and relatively low cost of living make it an appealing destination for retirees. 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. 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. The most notable of them is Mt. The trails in the city are closed frequently because of bear activity. These events are associated with the Aleutian Trench, a subduction zone, where the Pacific plate is pushed under the American continents crust. Since so many of you are interested in what it's like to live in Alaska, here I break down the pros & cons after having lived here for over a year straight.C. The state median home value is $265,000, with 71% of the homes in the state priced between $108,000 and $435,000. 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. 03 Jun. Even the sidewalks can be dangerous after a snowfall. If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. Thanks in advance! Oh, okay. 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. Alaska ranks high as one of the most popular cruising destinations in the world. There are several positions that help to support the tourism industry in the state as well. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. Alaska has a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities, including over 3 million acres of state park land. This has created a diverse and vibrant cultural landscape, with over 20% of the states population being of Native American or Alaska Native descent. 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. To be materialistic is to have values that place a high priority on having many possessions and making large sums of money. We have more than 10 years of experience in the civil works industry and we are experts in new house construction, tiles works, earth moving works, architecture works, and compound wall works There are numerous job opportunities available in Alaska right now. This event helped to form the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai National Park. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. 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. Many of Alaskas rivers are perfect for whitewater rafting, cruise the coastal waters by boat or take a flightseeing tour of glaciers. Instead, it relies on other sources of revenue, such as taxes on oil and natural gas production, to fund state government services. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. You get an opportunity to embrace a slower pace in life that focuses on individual dreams. The public schools in Sitka are above average. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Alaska has the highest cost of living of any state in the United States. 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. 7. According to statistics from the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, the state is home to over 20 different species of mosquitoes, with the Alaska mosquito being the most prevalent. There are several opportunities to pursue your sport of choice during the summer as well. 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%. Some parts of the state see nearly 24 hours of daylight during the season. kinda wish i could move back, . In Sitka there are a lot of bars and coffee shops. Required fields are marked *. 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. 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. Pros: Nice, quiet small town Good controls on development; no big box stores or too many chain stores, etc Beautiful esp. 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. Saved one of the best pros of living in Alaska for last. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. Pros; it is on an island. Russia and America completed the purchase agreement in 1867. 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. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. Looking to fill those lungs with some fresh, clean air? On the other hand, a resource extraction economy can also be vulnerable to changes in the market or shifts in consumer demand. This lack of a state sales tax is unusual among U.S. states, as the majority of states impose some form of sales tax on purchases made within the state. 2. Population: 2,683. 1. Posted by: Category: Uncategorized . From the traditional hunting and fishing activities of the indigenous peoples to the states thriving outdoor recreation industry, which generates over $2 billion in annual economic activity, the connection to the land is a defining feature of Alaskan culture. Great idea. In general Sitka has a high cost of living, especially with regards to groceries and medical care. Some folks I know use it toward a vacation every year. The state is home to many species of wildlife, including brown bears, moose, and bald eagles. This is higher than the national median salary, which was $45,790 during the same time period. The average high temperature for the city in the month of January is 0. There are also initiatives to support the development of greenhouses and other methods of growing produce in the state. Driving from Alaska to Seattle in 72 hours is possible if you dont make too many stops along the 1,000-mile trip. 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. Residents in Alaska enjoy the ultimate summer. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. In recent years, the amount of the dividend has ranged from a low of $900 to a high of $2,000. - The average commute for residents of Anchorage is 8.4 minutes longer than it is for residents of Sitka. I actually love all of them! A typical cruise ship produces thousands of gallons of raw sewage, garbage, wastewater, and oily bilge water from their engines. $341,600 85% higher than the US average. Meeting start whenever the people involved feel like making them happen. Property taxes are generally low, and the sales tax is non-existent. Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. It also gives you a chance to embrace the small-town charm that dominates the culture in the state. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! For generations, dogsled racing has been one of the most prominent sports in Alaska. 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. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. 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. Lets get started! Alaska is also a state of mountains. 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. Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. Only a certain type of human decides to live in an isolated community on an Alaskan island, and none of them are boring. As with many of the items on this list of pros and cons of living in Alaska, this largely depends on where you live. Looking to move to Alaska to save on taxes? Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time Learn More. Alaska puts you face-to-face with wildlife all of the time. Another thing that makes Alaska so incredible is the sense of freedom that you feel here. The entire state of Alaska has a laid-back feel. No doubt, this would attract many! Low crime, schools are good, etc. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. Sitka real estate or Sitka rentals. 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. If you are a married couple with four children, then you received a $6,600 PFT payment. 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. (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. Backpacking, canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, hang gliding, and so much more are available in Alaska because the summers are perfect for them. 4. During the average year, Anchorage sees over 30 inches of snow from January to March. This can make fresh fruits and vegetables more expensive and less readily available than in other parts of the country. Mushing is a sport or mode of transportation powered by dogs. 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. There are various communities in the northern half of the state that experience sub-zero temperatures all year long. Every winter, thousands of Alaskans suffer from SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder. Homes in Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the country. 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. Alaska has some of the best air quality in America, 10. Pros and Cons of Living in Idaho Alaska's social life consists of activities and events very particular to their culture. 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. Anchorage gets about five hours of sunlight during the winter solstice, with 19 hours of pitch-black sky. Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. 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. 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. In the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. Overall, the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so its important to be prepared for a range of conditions when visiting the state. Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. Alaska is home to the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres. The wildlife is as incredible as they say, 4. Alaska offers you plenty of small-town charm, even in the big cities. Maybe living in Alaska is your pace. Ignore the cold while having a good soak in many of the natural hot springs in Alaska. Should you move to Sitka, Alaska? Watching these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. 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. 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. Median rent price. Visitors to the park can take guided tours or explore on their own to see the parks incredible wildlife. If you choose to buy a home, know that some cities exempt seniors from part of their property tax. One of the negative effects of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on mental health. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary in Alaska was $77,060 in 2021. In addition to lack of houses to own, many Alaskan communities also face a lack of available rental units. Youll experience a shorter summer, but it wont be a jarring difference. Ready to head to Americas Last Frontier? As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. 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. 10. 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. You can get paid to live in Alaska once you qualify. 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.. This park is famous for its brown bears, which can often be seen fishing for salmon in the parks rivers. 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. Living in Sitka Alaska Everyday life in Sitka, Alaska. Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Native American, Russian, and American influences. Alaska has 35 species of mosquito, and all but a few will bite humans. Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. Thanks for the replies! Skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, backpacking, and snowmobiling are all activities that will become part of your life when you move here. The strongest earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. Every day is casual Friday in this state. The fair is nearly two weeks long and is Alaskas largest annual event. Living in Alaska pays dividends, literally, 8. However, you must be aware of what you are eating, as some might be poisonous. For example, some communities have established local farmers markets or community gardens where residents can purchase locally-grown produce. They are more plentiful than you may expect. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. Great place to raise a family. Alaska was once thought of as a folly. The second largest industry in Alaska is tourism. 5. 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. However, it is important to note that marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and there are some restrictions on its use in Alaska. 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. As a result, no urban developments have emerged in those areas. 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. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. Pros and cons of living in Madison Wisconsin. There are even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. There is not a state income tax that is withheld from your paycheck. 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. At Point Barrow, the sun does not set from May 10 to August 2. Maltese Dog Pictures . - Anchorage housing costs are 18.0% less expensive than Sitka housing costs. D Sitka Housing Home value is 33% higher than Alaska. The money can be used for anything that I choose, from paying bills to saving for a rainy day. The distinctive demographics in this unique area offer a feeling of pride in the residents. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? When Alaska was first established as a state in 1959, its economy was primarily based on fishing, mining, and other extractive industries. Including the: Pacific Ocean Gulf of Alaska Bering Sea Chukchi Sea Beaufort Sea If you are thinking about living in Alaska sometime in the future, then here are some pros and cons to consider before you finalize that decision. 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. What makes them seem like that? Skagway is heavily focused on history, with plaques, tours, and museums (several of which are free) all around the town. Even if you make your home in Anchorage, there is an excellent chance that you will encounter a moose at least once per day. In fact, you can compare it with any of the most beautiful spots in the world because of its uniqueness and beauty. Copyright © 2023 Embrace Someplace | Privacy Policy | As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The city of Ketchikan, in particular, is known for its high levels of rainfall, with an average of over 150 inches per year. They can be triggered by landslides, volcanic eruptions, or earthquakes. 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. Highways are paved in most areas, and the amount of traffic poses no problems for commuters. Breathtaking scenery. Because not all companies ship products to Alaska, obtaining the items you ordered can be a problem. We almost all use Helly Hansen Impertec. It is really easy to start a business after you move to Alaska. Sitka also has a wider range of water -based activities compared to Skagway. Consider yourself as and adventurous sort that can forgo some creature comforts in return for epic natural bounty? Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. 17 out of the 20 highest peaks in the United States are found here. Prices for both of those items are obscene. 6. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. The biggest problem, however, is accessibility. This can be a physically demanding and time-consuming job depending on where you live and how much it snows. Here are a few of these traditions valued by the residents of the state. It can get slightly warmer in February, but it will still average around 13. The rest of the state is largely rural and sparsely populated. Cordova has a small-town vibe due to its tiny population of fewer than 3,000 people and is only accessible by ferry. . Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. Because food, other than the local food, needs to travel a great distance to get there, the prices are relatively high. 1. Another one of the major challenges of living in Alaska is the high cost of goods. 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. Snow removal is going to become part of your daily life. 7. A cost of living index above 100 means Sitka, Alaska is more expensive. Home ownership. In 2019, the oil and gas industry in Alaska generated over $11 billion in economic activity, supporting over 33,000 jobs. Darkness here can be a real challenge. Cons; it is on an island. One of the things that makes Alaskan culture so interesting is its focus on the natural environment. 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. Pros & Cons Overview Jobs80% Housing85% Affordability60% Safety60% Amenities60% Diversity90% Education85% Commute100% Is Sitka, Alaska safe place to live? 3. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska By On June 22, 2022 In psle 2021 kiasu parents fresno unified school directory on pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska Moving to Alaska can be a bit SAD (were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder), 5. This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Oil spills continue to occur regularly in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred. PRO: Lots of wild animals. Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. Alaska has the best summers in the world. Call it a way of life. That makes it the third-highest state for average prices in this area. Fairbanks is the home to 31,000 people. 56% 12% lower than the US average. Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. Rent is only slightly cheaper than in other areas of the country. Its an adventure that exceeds some folks wildest dreams and drives other people out faster than you can say Ketchikan. Mountain View in Anchorage is rated one of the most diverse places to live in the United States. 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. 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 makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. Located in Denali National Park. Sitka cost of living is 116.6. For those who live outside of this metroplex, the only option tends to be heating oil, which is much more expensive. Additionally, Alaskas coastal location means that it is often hit by storms, which can bring even more precipitation. 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. The ordinary and the extraordinary. That gives you plenty of time to start exploring the 300 miles of trails that are around this one city. 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. Many mountain ranges, Mt Denali (tallest mountain in North America), about 100,000 glaciers, nice summers with lots of daylight. Because there is plenty of sunshine deep into the night during the summer months, you will discover more opportunities to explore trails, kayak in bays, and embrace the explore waiting within. As a resident of Alaska, you get to experience the renowned Alaska State Fair, which is one of the best in the country. A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. For someone who receives one of these dividend checks, its always a welcome boost to the old income. The states population is relatively small and sparsely distributed, with much of the population concentrated in the urban centers of Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. The cold really becomes a problem if you move farther north. It provides vital nutrients for the body, and it is delicious! (Top 10 Reasons), Why Is Cancn So Expensive? Those are the only career opportunities that are available. You will find dog sled races, whale festivals and native arts and music festivals. While SAD is more common in areas with long, dark winters, it can also affect people who live in other parts of the world. 25 Pros of Living in Alaska There are many reasons why Alaska living is amazing. The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. The vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. The long, dark winters can lead to a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (more on that below). One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. 8. Expect to pay about $.45 per gallon more for your fuel needs when you move to the state. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. This event caused the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai Park.
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