Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). 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. 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. It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. 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. In addition to the high cost of transporting goods to the state, the small population of Alaska also contributes to the high prices of goods. There are various communities in the northern half of the state that experience sub-zero temperatures all year long. However, the lack of a state income tax and sales tax can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. 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. If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. 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. Outdoor activities are literally endless for the adventure-seeking individual. Alaska has a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities, including over 3 million acres of state park land. On average, Anchorage has over 30 inches of snow, from January to March, with another 30 inches accumulating during November and December combined. Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. 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 second largest industry in Alaska is tourism. And the road systems are fine with me, too. 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. They used Attu and Kiska has a potential launching point if they were ever going to try to invade the continental 48 states. The overall crime rate in Sitka, Alaska is 8% lower than national average. This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. June 21 has almost 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the year. Springwater, without a doubt, is considered the best water to drink. The costs make the town kind of love it or leave it. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. 25 Pros of Living in Alaska There are many reasons why Alaska living is amazing. The average high temperature for the city in the month of January is 0. In fact, Alaska has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country. Numerous communities in the northern half of the state experience sub-zero temperatures throughout the year. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 40% of Alaskas population lives in rural areas that are considered frontier or remote.. Moose and caribou are abundant throughout Alaska. This park is famous for its brown bears, which can often be seen fishing for salmon in the parks rivers. 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. Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. If you shop strategically, especially with your rewards cards, most of the cost difference can be offset with a little creative budgeting. Anchorage gets about five hours of sunlight during the winter solstice, with 19 hours of pitch-black sky. In recent years, there have been efforts to reconsider the lack of a state sales tax in Alaska. Please share your experience here: When we get comments from people on Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska, we publish them here. The state of Alaska does not have a state sales tax. When you live in Alaska, the outdoors is no longer an afterthought. Saved one of the best pros of living in Alaska for last. See gorgeous pictures and amazing stories of happy Premier Pups Maltese dogs living in Hobart Bay, Alaska. When youre living in Anchorage, the temperature tends to hover around 70 in July and August. Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Native American, Russian, and American influences. Should you move to Sitka, Alaska? It ranks fifth for the lowest sales tax in the country but first in overall tax burden for companies. You just learn to dress for the colder weather. kinda wish i could move back, . 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 Council for Community and Economic Research, Alaska has the highest cost of living of any state in the United States. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. Even the sidewalks can be dangerous after a snowfall. Alaska is a vast and very remote state with many communities being extremely isolated from the rest of the country. Get out there and meet people and you'll meet some very interesting people. The median values are higher for some bigger cities, such as Juneau and Anchorage, with prices averaging $364,000 and $303,000, respectively. Some of this number leave and move elsewhere, but many return to Alaska. 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. It is held in Palmer, Alaska, in the late summer and dates back to 1936. A deadline that is more of a suggestion then a finite term. Half of the current population of the state lives in the Anchorage metropolitan area. The temperatures dropped to a record of minus 80F in 1971 at Prospect Creek Camp. Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. Have you ever heard about the rumor that the government will pay you to live in Alaska? Then the next largest community is Wasilla, with just 10,000 residents. Sitka Housing Options Homes For Sale New Homes Additionally, marijuana businesses are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of schools or other areas where children are present. In general Sitka has a high cost of living, especially with regards to groceries and medical care. You can save money in other ways by moving to Alaska as well. Living in Sitka Alaska Everyday life in Sitka, Alaska. The lack of available housing in Alaska, particularly in rural areas, can make it difficult for residents to find a place to live. You are going to be exposed to the Great Outdoors all of the time. These events are associated with the Aleutian Trench, a subduction zone, where the Pacific plate is pushed under the American continents crust. There is some truth to this idea that is percolating around the Internet. 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. 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. Larger cities like Fairbanks, Juneau, & Anchorage have pretty much all the amenities you could hope for as well as entertainment. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. Visitors to the park can take guided tours or explore on their own to see the parks incredible wildlife. Fishing is also an option in the states rivers and streams. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. When Alaska was first established as a state in 1959, its economy was primarily based on fishing, mining, and other extractive industries. 7. In Sitka there are a lot of bars and coffee shops. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. Many families can still save money because of how taxes are structured here. Because there are fewer consumers in the state, businesses may have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs and remain profitable. Mushing is a sport or mode of transportation powered by dogs. 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. 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. The fees for a business licenses are non-refundable, so if you make an error on your application, then you must pay for a second fee. Additionally, the states harsh weather and isolated location can be difficult for some people to adjust to, particularly those who are used to living in warmer and more urban environments. Cordova made our list as one of the best places to live in Alaska for many reasons, and the low crime rates, poverty levels, low unemployment rate, and reasonable housing prices all contributed. Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska according to Data Do you live in Sitka, Alaska? An amount below 100 means Sitka is cheaper than the US average. 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. 6. The fair is nearly two weeks long and is Alaskas largest annual event. This disadvantage is especially noticeable if you happen to have a family emergency going on outside of the state. 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. If you are out hiking, you need to be aware of your surroundings. A typical cruise ship produces thousands of gallons of raw sewage, garbage, wastewater, and oily bilge water from their engines. Compared to other locations in the country, even the southern locations of Alaska have more snowfall. In addition to outdoor activities, there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks together throughout the year. You will need to adjust to doing a lot of shoveling, blowing, and plowing to keep your walkways and driveway clear. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. You can embrace the life, or you can try to fight the elements. The long, dark winters can lead to a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (more on that below). That gives you plenty of time to start exploring the 300 miles of trails that are around this one city. 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. 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. However, you must be aware of what you are eating, as some might be poisonous. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. There are several positions that help to support the tourism industry in the state as well. When you move further north in the state, thats when the cold really becomes an issue. Milestones such as the Klondike Gold Rush, the Good Friday Earthquake, and the passing of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act reserved millions of acres for preservation throughout the state. One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. If you have talked to people about moving to Alaska, then you might have heard that retail costs are higher in the state. Low crime, schools are good, etc. Alaska is home to the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres. 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. While there are things to do, city life is slow compared to larger cities in the country. However, others are concerned that a sales tax could be detrimental to the states economy and place an additional burden on residents and businesses. Living in Alaska Pros and Cons Pros You will experience the great outdoors in Alaska in a way that you never have before. With its spectacular beauty, many recreational opportunities, and plentiful wildlife, there is an adventure at every turn in Americas last frontier. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time . Airborne pollutants are monitored and regulated, but infractions are common with financial penalties. 5. For example, it is illegal to consume marijuana in public, and it is illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana. Home ownership. Terrific information. Smaller places with 1 BD are cheaper but if you have a family, 3BD are $1500/mo and up. 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. Because Alaska is the least densely populated of the United States, you can unwind and relax in complete silence if you choose. The money can be used for anything that I choose, from paying bills to saving for a rainy day. You can spend lots of time hiking, fishing, whale watching. 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. Another reason why Alaskas air and water are so clean is the states commitment to protecting the environment. Great place to raise a family. 1. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. 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. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. The sunsets in Alaska are regarded as the most beautiful on earth. The state is home to many species of wildlife, including brown bears, moose, and bald eagles. The states population is relatively small and sparsely distributed, with much of the population concentrated in the urban centers of Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. Try Premium; Log In Sign Up. 1. 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. 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. In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. The vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. D Sitka Housing Home value is 33% higher than Alaska. 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. Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska. Situated in the far north, Alaska is surrounded by cold, clean ocean waters that are teeming with a wide variety of fish and shellfish. You will also need to consider the cost of the trip before deciding to travel. 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%. 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. 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. For those who already live in Alaska, it is not surprising that their state was ranked #1 as the happiest place to live in America by a well-being study conducted by Gallup-Healthways in 2015. Some refer to mosquitoes as the states official bird, given their ubiquity and ability to survive in harsh environments. The wildlife is as incredible as they say, 4. To make things worse, Alaskan private company employees spend more than $99 over the national average for healthcare costs for one person. 03 Jun. 10. The cost of groceries and health care are also higher in Alaska compared to the national average. If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska is for you. Here are some tips to help repel the mosquito. (Top 10 Reasons), Why Is Cancn So Expensive? Some homes can get through the season using coal or wood with an interior stove to limit costs, but you will be trading time for money with that choice. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. 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. $1,019 7% higher than the US average. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. Because it is a lot colder in Alaska than in other states, your heating costs during the winter are going to be significantly higher. pros and cons of living in sitka alaskaswiffer commercial actress 2020. junio 1, 2022 . The rest of the state is largely rural and sparsely populated. In Alaska, you will find an incredible amount of beauty. Dont forget to budget your heating costs during the winter months. This study also included collective feelings of financial security, community pride, and good health. If you decide to make your home around Anchorage when you move to Alaska, then the weather will feel somewhat temperate. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. In fact, according to the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, over half of the households in rural Alaska are considered overcrowded.. Alaska Will Pay You to Move There Compare Sitka, Alaska Cost of Living vs Anchorage, Alaska Cost of Living: Taxes, Childcare, Groceries, Health. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. However, this is not the case. 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. They are more plentiful than you may expect. 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 Find flights to Alaska from $177. The more rural cities can feel like youre on the surface of the moon. In fact, you can compare it with any of the most beautiful spots in the world because of its uniqueness and beauty. Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. 3. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. This becomes obvious if you have a family emergency happening outside the state. This makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. The most notable of them is Mt. Youll experience a shorter summer, but it wont be a jarring difference. 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. To be materialistic is to have values that place a high priority on having many possessions and making large sums of money. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. Population 8,518 View Nearby Homes Alaska Real Estate Median Home Value $367,800 National $244,900 Thanks in advance! But what made it more notable was the pristine setting where it took place. The top industries in Alaska include oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and government. Breathtaking scenery. Expect to pay about $.45 per gallon more for your fuel needs when you move to the state. Here are some interesting statistics about Alaskas natural beauty: No matter where you go in Alaska, youre sure to be awestruck by the beauty of the natural world. 1. In fact, according to the EPA, over 90% of the air quality monitoring sites in Alaska have air quality that is classified as good or moderate,. 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. Many of Alaskas rivers are perfect for whitewater rafting, cruise the coastal waters by boat or take a flightseeing tour of glaciers. 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%. Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. 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 is due in part to the states remote location, which makes it difficult to access certain goods and services. 5. 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. The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. Alaskas nearness to the Arctic Circle means that day hours vary in intensity and length. 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. 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. Alaska has 35 species of mosquito, and all but a few will bite humans.