There is a reason almost every car in Alaska, old or new, has a dent! The temperatures dropped to a record of minus 80F in 1971 at Prospect Creek Camp. Darkness here can be a real challenge. Because there are fewer consumers in the state, businesses may have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs and remain profitable. As a result, many people end up living in small, crowded homes or temporary housing, such as trailers or cabins. This means that the states economy is heavily dependent on its natural resources, which can be a good thing but also has its challenges (outside of the obvious ones like massive negative contributions to climate change). 25 Pros of Living in Alaska There are many reasons why Alaska living is amazing. 5. 20 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Alaska (Local's Guide) In rural areas, for example, people often rely on their neighbors for help with things like shoveling snow or carpooling. You get an opportunity to embrace a slower pace in life that focuses on individual dreams. But why is Alaska so rainy? 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. This dividend comes from a permanent fund that is fueled by the oil and gas industry industries. Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. While there are things to do, city life is slow compared to larger cities in the country. Great idea. 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. Moving to Sitka, Alaska in 2023 - Dwellics 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. The city of Ketchikan, in particular, is known for its high levels of rainfall, with an average of over 150 inches per year. As symptoms become more severe, suicide can result. 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. The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. Daylight is nonexistent in the northernmost regions for months at a time, which creates a physiological shift in disposition and mood. There are times when the weather and the costs of living here will be challenging. Moving to Sitka, Alaska : alaska - reddit.com Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. 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. 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. Pros And Cons Of Living In Alaska 2023 - Ablison 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. Home ownership. Situated in the far north, Alaska is surrounded by cold, clean ocean waters that are teeming with a wide variety of fish and shellfish. One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. The pros: pretty low crime rate (although it's growing more and more every year . 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. Property taxes are generally low, and the sales tax is non-existent. The wildlife is as incredible as they say, 4. In the summer, the days are long and the wildflowers are in bloom, creating a colorful tapestry across the landscape. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska Pros and cons - 5/23/2010 Just like most places, Parkersburg definitely has it's pros and cons. Highways are paved in most areas, and the amount of traffic poses no problems for commuters. There are even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. Blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, salmonberries can be found on Alaskas hiking trails. On the other hand, a resource extraction economy can also be vulnerable to changes in the market or shifts in consumer demand. 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. Beautiful Maltese Dogs Of Hobart Bay, Alaska - Premier Pups Self-employed individuals or freelancers must become a business when living in Alaska. PRO: Lots of wild animals. It is not unusual to encounter wildlife every day when you are living in Alaska. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. Alaska has 35 species of mosquito, and all but a few will bite humans. Maltese Dog Pictures . 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. However, the higher cost of living is a trade off for higher quality of living. The high cost of living in Alaska can be a challenge for many people, particularly for those on fixed incomes or low salaries. 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. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? 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 not find better summers anywhere else in the world. Very interesting info!Perfect just what I was looking for! 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. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). That makes it a paradise for those who love to go hunting and fishing. Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). This makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. The states abundant natural resources, including oil, natural gas, seafood, and natural wonders are the main drivers of its economy. The land what eventually become the 49th state in 1957. The climate is severe, and the strain of life can demand a heavy price. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Alaska is home to more than half of the worlds brown bears and is the only state in the U.S. where you can find all three species of North American bears: the grizzly, black, and polar bears. There isnt an argument to make for any other location. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. You heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important then living in Alaska just got easier. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. The median home prices for homes in Anchorage are $299,000, Fairbanks $222,000, Wasilla $239,000, and $185,000 for Kenai. 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. 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. No place is perfect not even Alaska. Not many states are as beautiful as Alaska. The costs make the town kind of love it or leave it. 7. Ignore the cold while having a good soak in many of the natural hot springs in Alaska. Alaskas economy is largely based on resource extraction, such as fishing, mining, and oil drilling. Because of the risk of contamination and sickness, prepare to filter or treat the water if necessary. pros and cons of living in sitka alaskaswiffer commercial actress 2020. junio 1, 2022 . A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. Try Premium; Log In Sign Up. Living in Alaska could just be for you. Some popular cities in the state include: Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska and a hub for commerce, culture, and outdoor recreation. 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. 15 Reasons to Consider Moving to Alaska - Moving.com Sitka is on an island and the only access is by plane or boat. Alaska is one of only a handful of states that does not have a state income tax. While Alaska has many incredible natural wonders, they are not always easy to get to. If you love the chaos and bustling pace of New York, you will go stir crazy in Anchorage or Juneau. Pros And Cons Of Living In Sitka, Alaska, Moving to Sitka, USA, Cost of However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. Prices for both of those items are obscene. 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. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Alaska has the highest cost of living of any state in the United States. 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. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. 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. The inland Alaskan Arctic, where the skies are clearer, is one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights. That is due to the higher cost of transportation and the isolation factor of the state. The cost of living in Alaska is higher than the national average. 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. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. There are many reasons why Alaska living is amazing. If you are a married couple with four children, then you received a $6,600 PFT payment. Best Places to Live in Fairbanks, Alaska Fairbanks AK rests close Arctic Circle famed principally for its natural sites such as Chena River State Recreation Area where visitors may take part in different water sports or simply enjoy some peace & tranquility while walking along sandy beaches! You just learn to dress for the colder weather. As a result, no urban developments have emerged in those areas. 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. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? If youre thinking of moving to Alaska, its important to be prepared for rain lots of it. The decision to not impose a state sales tax in Alaska is rooted in the states history and its reliance on natural resource extraction for revenue. 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. Instead, it relies on other sources of revenue, such as taxes on oil and natural gas production, to fund state government services. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time Learn More. It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. 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. Living in Alaska - Pros and Cons & Cost of Living - WTS This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. big sur carmel, monterey itinerary . Visitors can also go birdwatching in the states many wetlands and forests, or take a trip to see the Northern Lights. Posted by: Category: Uncategorized . The expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. 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. Anchorage gets about five hours of sunlight during the winter solstice, with 19 hours of pitch-black sky. Residents in Alaska enjoy the ultimate summer. Another one of the major challenges of living in Alaska is the high cost of goods. The result is your tax burden is potentially higher than it would be in some states. Because of its geographic place on the planet, winter in Alaska is not just cold; it is dark as well. 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. If long (and were talking looonnnggg) periods of darkness are challenging for you then moving to Alaska may not be your cup of tea. From the moment you set foot in this wild, beautiful land, you can feel the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins. 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. Additionally, Alaskas coastal location means that it is often hit by storms, which can bring even more precipitation. If you are not a household that was living paycheck to paycheck, then this potential disadvantage does not apply to you. For example, it is illegal to consume marijuana in public, and it is illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana. 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. A deadline that is more of a suggestion then a finite term. In fact, according to the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, over half of the households in rural Alaska are considered overcrowded.. Including the: Pacific Ocean Gulf of Alaska Bering Sea Chukchi Sea Beaufort Sea You will not find this type of behavior among the residents of Alaska. There are still the regular responsibilities that you have with life, like your job and going to school, but the outdoors becomes a third one that is a lot of fun to embrace. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. Alaska ranks high as one of the most popular cruising destinations in the world. Except for areas where there is a concentration of wood-burning for home heating, the air quality is the freshest in the world. Call it a way of life. 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. 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. Find out Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska. Alaska has some of the best air quality in America, 10. From the natural beauty of the Aleutian Islands, which has dozens of volcanoes, to the snow-covered peaks of the Denali National Park, Alaska is both overwhelming and blissful at the same time. On average, Anchorage has over 30 inches of snow, from January to March, with another 30 inches accumulating during November and December combined. 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. 2023 Compare Cities Overview: Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK - Best Places Benefits of Retiring In Alaska (Pros & Cons) | Retire Fearless The best cities in Alaska depend on individual preferences and priorities. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Every winter, thousands of Alaskans suffer from SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder. - The average commute for residents of Anchorage is 8.4 minutes longer than it is for residents of Sitka. The top industries in Alaska include oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and government. 4. Because food, other than the local food, needs to travel a great distance to get there, the prices are relatively high. Hunting options include grouse, hare, mountain goat or brown bear, hunting in the rainforest region. 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. Required fields are marked *. Cost of Living Find Your Best Place Quiz City Compare Climate Top Lists Rankings Schools Find a Place DataEngine Interactive Map. This event caused the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai Park. The cold really becomes a problem if you move farther north. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK Change Cities Highlights - The Median Age in Anchorage is 5.9 years younger than in Sitka. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. D Sitka Housing Home value is 33% higher than Alaska. However, this is not the case. That means you are going to be struggling with about the same number of days with snow each year. There are also initiatives to support the development of greenhouses and other methods of growing produce in the state. No doubt, this would attract many! Pros And Cons Of Living In Alaska, Moving to Alaska, USA, Cost of Life tends to move a lot slower when living in Alaska. Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. Thank you for taking the time to post this. Maybe living in Alaska is your pace. 5. From small town fairs to large cultural events, there are always opportunities to come together and celebrate the things that make Alaska special. I actually love all of them! 10 Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska Right Now You may receive another 30 inches during the months of November and December combined. 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. Even when the winter months come around, this attitude doesnt change. Cordova has a small-town vibe due to its tiny population of fewer than 3,000 people and is only accessible by ferry. For generations, dogsled racing has been one of the most prominent sports in Alaska. It is thought that the Inuit invented dog sleds to transport supplies and food to their people. Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. When you live in the state, then you are 15 minutes from being out in the wild, no matter where your home happens to be. Activities that take place outside become a part of who you are. 03 Jun. Well Ive got news for you. Alaska has a very diverse climate, with temperatures and weather patterns varying widely depending on where you are in the state. In addition to its incredible landscape, Alaska is also home to many glaciers, including the world famous Mendenhall Glacier. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. A buddy of mine brought Sitka gear to Kodiak last fall. Cons: 1 - cost of living is high. One reason is the states location near the ocean. A cost of living index above 100 means Sitka, Alaska is more expensive. Yearly, there are about 5,000 earthquakes in Alaska. This can make fresh fruits and vegetables more expensive and less readily available than in other parts of the country.