This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. Thats because even if you decide that living here isnt right for you, a holiday visit still creates the perfect opportunity to relax. Because there are fewer consumers in the state, businesses may have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs and remain profitable. Homes in Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the country. If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Alaska will cost you somewhere between $1,000 and $1,169 per month, or less in some smaller, scenic areas like Kenai. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. pros and cons of living in sitka alaskaswiffer commercial actress 2020. junio 1, 2022 . Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. The median values are higher for some of the bigger cities, with Anchorage and Juneau standing at $303,601 and $364,295, respectively. 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. 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. Median home value. One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. 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. McKinley. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. 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. 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. 8. 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. Dont forget to budget your heating costs during the winter months. Try Premium; Log In Sign Up. It is held in Palmer, Alaska, in the late summer and dates back to 1936. See gorgeous pictures and amazing stories of happy Premier Pups Maltese dogs living in Hobart Bay, Alaska. Some parts of the state see nearly 24 hours of daylight during the season. Some of this number leave and move elsewhere, but many return to Alaska. 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. This lack of availability means that many individuals and families are forced to compete for a limited number of rental units, which can drive up prices. Compare Now. Then there are the Northern Lights that you can see frequently dance across the sky all winter long. The most notable of them is Mt. 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. This is higher than the national median salary, which was $45,790 during the same time period. The ordinary and the extraordinary. 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. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. These events are associated with the Aleutian Trench, a subduction zone, where the Pacific plate is pushed under the American continents crust. . Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK Change Cities Highlights - The Median Age in Anchorage is 5.9 years younger than in Sitka. Have you ever heard about the rumor that the government will pay you to live in Alaska? 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%. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. Because not all companies ship products to Alaska, obtaining the items you ordered can be a problem. Home ownership. 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. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. Find the best and worst places to live, raise a family or retire in Alaska. In 2019, the oil and gas industry in Alaska generated over $11 billion in economic activity, supporting over 33,000 jobs. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. 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. Another one of the major challenges of living in Alaska is the high cost of goods. They are talking snobby by Alaska standards, which would probably translate to an average person anywhere else. 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. That is due to the higher cost of transportation and the isolation factor of the state. There are various communities in the northern half of the state that experience sub-zero temperatures all year long. Sitka real estate or Sitka rentals. During the average year, Anchorage sees over 30 inches of snow from January to March. 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 bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. kinda wish i could move back, . If you are not a household that was living paycheck to paycheck, then this potential disadvantage does not apply to you. The public schools in Sitka are above average. 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. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. 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. 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. 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. 3. Alaskas nearness to the Arctic Circle means that day hours vary in intensity and length. To cope, some turn to overeating, alcohol, drugs, or extended periods of sleep. The Alaska Airlines Center was built, and famous acts now have a place to perform. There is a reason almost every car in Alaska, old or new, has a dent! In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 40% of Alaskas population lives in rural areas that are considered frontier or remote.. As a result, many people end up living in small, crowded homes or temporary housing, such as trailers or cabins. Usually, once people settle here, they want to remain. There are even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. Because food, other than the local food, needs to travel a great distance to get there, the prices are relatively high. Alaska has 35 species of mosquito, and all but a few will bite humans. On average, Anchorage has over 30 inches of snow, from January to March, with another 30 inches accumulating during November and December combined. 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. The overall crime rate in Sitka, Alaska is 8% lower than national average. Alaska is a vast and very remote state with many communities being extremely isolated from the rest of the country. 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. No place is perfect not even Alaska. That means your tax burden is potentially higher than what it would be in some other states. Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. People who live in Alaska are called Alaskans. While SAD is more common in areas with long, dark winters, it can also affect people who live in other parts of the world. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. There are numerous job opportunities available in Alaska right now. Located in Denali National Park. This can be a physically demanding and time-consuming job depending on where you live and how much it snows. 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. But what made it more notable was the pristine setting where it took place. Even then, the cost of travel is going to be something that you will want to think about before you finalize any plans. A buddy of mine brought Sitka gear to Kodiak last fall. Symptoms of SAD can include feelings of sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. 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. Cons: 1 - cost of living is high. You just learn to dress for the colder weather. (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. Pros of Moving to Alaska 1. So if youre feeling a little down during the winter months, you may want to try sitting near a window or using a light therapy box. 2. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. In Alaska, there are two seasons, road construction and winter. Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. For example, some communities have established local farmers markets or community gardens where residents can purchase locally-grown produce. Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska. Thank you for taking the time to post this. The states rugged landscape and extreme climate have shaped the way of life of its residents, and this can be seen in many aspects of the culture. The more rural cities can feel like youre on the surface of the moon. Electricity and gas bills are 33% above the national average in Alaska. It does have the fifth lowest sales tax in the country, and the state ranks first in overall tax burden for companies. Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 1,700 species of plants and animals. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. Its an adventure that exceeds some folks wildest dreams and drives other people out faster than you can say Ketchikan. B- Sitka Schools HS graduation rate is equal to Alaska. Find out Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska. Just as Anchorage gets lovely sunshine almost all day during the summer months, it is the opposite during the winter when darkness and cold take over. 2. Watching these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. When you live in Alaska, the outdoors is no longer an afterthought. 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. 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 can be a difficult adjustment for newcomers living in Alaska. Pros and Cons of Charter Fishing. Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. Here are a few of these traditions valued by the residents of the state. Posted by: Category: Uncategorized . Alaska offers you plenty of small-town charm, even in the big cities. Not many states are as beautiful as Alaska. As of the latest estimates from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Alaska is 731,545. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. Blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, salmonberries can be found on Alaskas hiking trails. Russia and America completed the purchase agreement in 1867. Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. 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. 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. 1. Cons; it is on an island. If you are not a household that was living paycheck to paycheck, then this potential disadvantage does not apply to you. 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. These activities are taken to the next level when you move to this state. Hunting options include grouse, hare, mountain goat or brown bear, hunting in the rainforest region. When you move to Alaska, you will discover that there are military, transportation, healthcare, and construction jobs readily available. For someone who receives one of these dividend checks, its always a welcome boost to the old income. 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. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. 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. What many people do not realize is that Japan actually occupied two Alaskan islands during World War II for 15 months. Other cities to consider include Wasilla, Kenai, and Sitka. These blood-sucking insects are most active during the warmer months of the year, typically from May to September. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. Air quality fines are usually more than $20,000, but that is a small fraction of the slot machines daily take in the ships casino. Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016, Colorado Vs. California (Whats The Difference? The higher median salary in Alaska is likely due in part to the states high cost of living, as well as the presence of higher-paying industries such as oil and gas. Even the sidewalks can be dangerous after a snowfall. For those who live outside of this metroplex, the only option tends to be heating oil, which is much more expensive. The constant buzzing and biting can be annoying, and in some cases, mosquitoes can even transmit diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria. The money can be used for anything that I choose, from paying bills to saving for a rainy day. Thanks in advance! Fly from Los Angeles on Alaska Airlines, Delta, American Airlines and more. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. You heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important then living in Alaska just got easier. 25 Pros of Living in Alaska There are many reasons why Alaska living is amazing. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. 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. The frost-free growing season in Alaska lasts for about 100 days. If you shop strategically, especially with your rewards cards, most of the cost difference can be offset with a little creative budgeting. 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. The state of Alaska does not have a state sales tax. Still, i definitely don't want to live somewhere with snobby people. $341,600 85% higher than the US average. Living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. This makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. - Anchorage housing costs are 18.0% less expensive than Sitka housing costs. 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. 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. So, while the darkness in Alaska can be beautiful and magical at times, it can also be a real challenge. 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. 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. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. 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. 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. Because Alaska does not have an income tax, the state earns its revenues through a tax burden placed on businesses. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. If you love the chaos and bustling pace of New York, you will go stir crazy in Anchorage or Juneau. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. Including the: Pacific Ocean Gulf of Alaska Bering Sea Chukchi Sea Beaufort Sea This study also included collective feelings of financial security, community pride, and good health. In fact, Alaska has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country. The state also experiences powerful volcanic eruptions from time to time, including the most powerful of the 20th century at Novarupta Volcano. In other words, its the Arctic Circle of flavor. You can embrace the life, or you can try to fight the elements. Bears are everywhere in Alaska, and they are not afraid to attack. The average amount of the dividend check is around $1,600, although the actual amount can vary from year to year depending on the performance of the fund. Some residents have even come to see the insects as a source of entertainment, with some people holding mosquito calling contests to see who can attract the most mosquitoes with a particular sound or scent. They can be triggered by landslides, volcanic eruptions, or earthquakes. The biggest problem, however, is accessibility. 09-28-2015, 02:38 PM rntim Location: sitka, Alaska 279 posts, read 362,335 times Reputation: 381 I live in Sitka. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. If you are thinking about moving to Alaska then prepare to combat SAD. 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. People turnover a lot. It typically occurs during the fall and winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. In 2019, the timber industry in Alaska generated over $935 million in economic activity, supporting over 5,500 jobs. Search for Alaska flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. The Alaskan highways overall road quality and their feeder routes are good, except for some summer road construction. Here are some tips to help repel the mosquito. A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. Ready to head to Americas Last Frontier? While bear attacks always make the headlines, they are few compared to the number of people who die of exposure in the extreme cold. There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. Whether youre in the mood for a hearty fish stew, a delicious salmon salad, or simply a steaming plate of steamed crab legs, youll be able to find it all in Alaska. Another negative effect of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on your safety. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. You get an opportunity to embrace a slower pace in life that focuses on individual dreams.