When you move further north in the state, thats when the cold really becomes an issue. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. Furthermore, Alaska is a state surrounded by pristine bodies of water. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. Some argue that a sales tax could provide a stable source of revenue for the state and help to fund important government services. In addition to lack of houses to own, many Alaskan communities also face a lack of available rental units. Besides its ideal temperatures of 60 to 80 degrees, the state also offers very long, sunshine-filled days. After living in the state for a full calendar year, residents will qualify for what is called the PFD payment. 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. Salmon fixed any way is a staple; also, reindeer dogs, halibut, crab, sourdough bread, and oysters are among the favorites. Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. McKinley. 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. This expense is one of the most significant costs that you will face as a household if you decide to move here. Oil spills continue to occur regularly in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred. 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. The more rural cities can feel like youre on the surface of the moon. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. 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. The most notable of them is Mt. Pros + Cons of Living in Sitka (Anchorage, Ketchikan: 2015, safe, bars But why is Alaska so rainy? Pros and Cons of Charter Fishing. Visitors to the park can take guided tours or explore on their own to see the parks incredible wildlife. 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. Outdoor activities are literally endless for the adventure-seeking individual. You have to be careful, though, since it is wilderness, and while they have a good Search and Rescue, sometimes they never find people who get lost, besides danger of slides, injuries. Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. 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 most vigorous earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). 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. Alaskas economy is largely based on resource extraction, such as fishing, mining, and oil drilling. The states abundant natural resources, including oil, natural gas, seafood, and natural wonders are the main drivers of its economy. There are several opportunities to pursue your sport of choice during the summer as well. Reasons not to move to Alaska. The payment in 2017 was $1,100 per person. Not many states are as beautiful as Alaska. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. Alaska is also a state of mountains. 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. Breathtaking scenery. This study also included collective feelings of financial security, community pride, and good health. Located in Denali National Park. 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. 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. Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. A cost of living index above 100 means Sitka, Alaska is more expensive. 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. This is a favorable statistic, as the national average is $1,450. Thats because even if you decide that living here isnt right for you, a holiday visit still creates the perfect opportunity to relax. The 9 Best Places to Live in Alaska - The Zumper Blog Living in Alaska I Pros & Cons - YouTube Pros of Moving to Alaska 1. There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. The climate is severe, and the strain of life can demand a heavy price. Maybe living in Alaska is your pace. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. June 21 has almost 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the year. As of the latest estimates from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Alaska is 731,545. If bar hopping is to your liking, you will need to walk around a bit as Anchorage is very spread out. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. In recent years, there have been efforts to reconsider the lack of a state sales tax in Alaska. Get yours today! If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska is for you. The state median home value is $265,000, with 71% of the homes in the state priced between $108,000 and $435,000. Despite these challenges, there are efforts underway to improve access to fresh produce in Alaska. The median values are higher for some of the bigger cities, with Anchorage and Juneau standing at $303,601 and $364,295, respectively. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time . To be materialistic is to have values that place a high priority on having many possessions and making large sums of money. The rest of the state is largely rural and sparsely populated. If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. The second largest industry in Alaska is tourism. 1. Coastal towns collect more than $60 million in revenue through the docking fees and other taxes. The public schools in Sitka are above average. 5. Pros & Cons Overview Jobs80% Housing85% Affordability60% Safety60% Amenities60% Diversity90% Education85% Commute100% Is Sitka, Alaska safe place to live? 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. As a result, no urban developments have emerged in those areas. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. 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. Alaska is a good place to retire for people who love nature, dont live on a fixed income, and are alright with harsh weather. 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. Because there are fewer consumers in the state, businesses may have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs and remain profitable. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. 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. Even when the winter months come around, this attitude doesnt change. Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. It is possible to drive from Seattle to Alaska in about 72 hours if you dont make a lot of stops along the 1,000-mile trek. 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. Is Alaska a Good Place to Live? Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska Alaska is a vast and very remote state with many communities being extremely isolated from the rest of the country. A Travel Website About Portland and Oregon, Article Overview: Living in Alaska, Moving to Alaska. Here are a few of these traditions valued by the residents of the state. Additionally, Alaskas coastal location means that it is often hit by storms, which can bring even more precipitation. You can whale watch in Juneau, watch or participate in dog sledding with huskies, explore ice caves, view the beauty of the Northern Lights. The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. 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. Every day is casual Friday in this state. These activities are taken to the next level when you move to this state. It is really easy to start a business after you move to Alaska. 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. A gallon of milk can cost double what it would in other states. 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. Here are some tips to help repel the mosquito. 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. The violent crime rate of Sitka is 52% lower than national average. Alaska was ranked the most outdoorsy state in America with 81 percent of the population being involved in outdoor activities. 10 Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska Right Now If you love the chaos and bustling pace of New York, you will go stir crazy in Anchorage or Juneau. Most accidental deaths are from residents who die while sleeping due to carbon monoxide poisoning from clogged chimneys or faulty heaters. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. For someone who receives one of these dividend checks, its always a welcome boost to the old income. What's It like to live in Sitka? : r/alaska - reddit 7. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time Learn More. 6. They are really an issue only from the second week in June to the last week in July. It is not unusual to encounter wildlife every day when you are living in Alaska. The Pros & Cons of Living in Ashland vs. Bend, The following errors occurred with your submission. Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. It is held in Palmer, Alaska, in the late summer and dates back to 1936. Population: 2,683. 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. Despite their small size, mosquitoes can be a big problem in Alaska, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and those who live in rural areas. You can spend lots of time hiking, fishing, whale watching. Alaska ranks second to Wyoming for the highest rate of suicide in the country. Eskimo ice cream is a native dish made with whipped fat from the hunted animals such as reindeer, bears, seals, combined with snow and wild berries. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska - newhomesinbarrie.ca But what made it more notable was the pristine setting where it took place. In Alaska, you will find an incredible amount of beauty. Thanks in advance! 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. Pros: Nice, quiet small town Good controls on development; no big box stores or too many chain stores, etc Beautiful esp. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. Many families can still save money because of how taxes are structured here. 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. If you choose to buy a home, know that some cities exempt seniors from part of their property tax. 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. Compare that with a median price of $1,596 in California and $1,150 in Florida. The cost of living in Alaska is really high. Symptoms of SAD can include feelings of sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. 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. Many of Alaskas rivers are perfect for whitewater rafting, cruise the coastal waters by boat or take a flightseeing tour of glaciers. There isnt an argument to make for any other location. For some families, that is enough incentive to make the move immediately. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. 2023 Compare Cities Cost of Living: Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK Dogsled racing is the primary form of mushing and thrives as an unorganized sport that provides a healthy outdoor form of winter exercise for all families. 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. Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. We are passionate about home decor, design, and all things home related. However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. There is not the same level of hectic chaos here like there is in most of the rest of the world. Because Alaska is the least densely populated of the United States, you can unwind and relax in complete silence if you choose. Self-employed individuals or freelancers must become a business when living in Alaska. The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. 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. As symptoms become more severe, suicide can result. 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. Through its established Permanent Fund Dividend Program, Alaska will pay you to move there. In fact, according to the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, over half of the households in rural Alaska are considered overcrowded.. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. A typical cruise ship produces thousands of gallons of raw sewage, garbage, wastewater, and oily bilge water from their engines. Juneau, the state capital and a popular destination for its historic downtown and nearby outdoor attractions. 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. Keep in mind that these opinions are based merely on my own time here and others may have other experiences. Yes, Alaska is generally considered to be a very tax-friendly state for residents. Larger cities like Fairbanks, Juneau, & Anchorage have pretty much all the amenities you could hope for as well as entertainment. 3. The process is online, allowing you to obtain your identity numbers and file your incorporation papers in less than an hour for most businesses. There are numerous job opportunities available in Alaska right now. In the summer, the days are long and the wildflowers are in bloom, creating a colorful tapestry across the landscape. - Anchorage housing costs are 18.0% less expensive than Sitka housing costs. There are many reasons why Alaska living is amazing. Because Alaska does not have an income tax, the state earns its revenues through a tax burden placed on businesses. Much of the land in Alaska is owned by the federal government, and there are strict regulations on how it can be used. Except for areas where there is a concentration of wood-burning for home heating, the air quality is the freshest in the world. Mushing is a sport or mode of transportation powered by dogs. What makes them seem like that? If you shop strategically, especially with your rewards cards, most of the cost difference can be offset with a little creative budgeting. Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. Skagway vs. Sitka - Which Is A Better Travel Destination? This can make it difficult to access basic services and amenities, such as medical care and grocery stores. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cost of living in Alaska is 29.5% higher than the national average. While this can vary in size from year to year, it ranges from $800 to $1,100. 4. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. If you have talked to people about moving to Alaska, then you might have heard that retail costs are higher in the state. This dividend comes from a permanent fund that is fueled by the oil and gas industry industries. 15 Reasons to Consider Moving to Alaska - Moving.com Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? Alaska has sunshine for almost 20 hours a day. 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. The cost of living in Alaska can also be attractive. 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. The estimated population of Alaska is 738,000. Despite higher-than-average wages, low poverty level, and a sparse population, violent crimes are surprisingly frequent. One of the things that makes Alaskas air and water so clean is its location. The ordinary and the extraordinary. For those who live outside of this metroplex, the only option tends to be heating oil, which is much more expensive. They can be triggered by landslides, volcanic eruptions, or earthquakes. 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. There are times when the weather and the costs of living here will be challenging. A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. During the average year, Anchorage sees over 30 inches of snow from January to March. The cons, however, include high gas prices and the cost of living. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. Sitka Pros And Cons Of Living In Sitka, Alaska, Moving to Sitka, USA With a strong feeling of purpose in our nation and a sense of contentment, Alaska residents are generally at peace and very happy with the place they call home. pros and cons of living in sitka alaska - glutapak-r.com If you decide to make your home around Anchorage when you move to Alaska, then the weather will feel somewhat temperate. Even if you make your home in Anchorage, there is an excellent chance that you will encounter a moose at least once per day. But if you shop carefully, use your rewards cards, and with a bit of creative budgeting, this possible disadvantage may not apply to you, even if your household lives paycheck to paycheck. The wildlife is as incredible as they say, 4. Chill, Diverse People. One of the advantages of a resource extraction economy is that it can provide good jobs and a stable source of income for many people. The strongest earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. it's cool - pros and cons of anchorage - 9/5/2022 it's nice, i liked it when i grew up there. Compared to other locations in the country, even the southern locations of Alaska have more snowfall. Russia and America completed the purchase agreement in 1867. At Point Barrow, the sun does not set from May 10 to August 2. With Alaskas 6,640 miles of coastline, tsunamis can happen. Alaska is one of only a handful of states that does not have a state income tax. 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. Electricity and gas bills are 33% above the national average in Alaska. The top industries in Alaska include oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and government. 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. With the long, dark winters, its not uncommon for roads and sidewalks to be covered in ice and snow, making everyday tasks all the more treacherous. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska 8. The pros and cons of living in Alaska involve what you are willing to embrace so that you can have year-round access to all of the outdoor opportunities that exist in the state. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. These blood-sucking insects are most active during the warmer months of the year, typically from May to September. Cost of Living in Sitka, Alaska - Best Places While there are things to do, city life is slow compared to larger cities in the country. The cost of housing in particular is high in the state, with the average home price in Alaska being nearly twice the national average.