If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. 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. 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! At Point Barrow, the sun does not set from May 10 to August 2. If bar hopping is to your liking, you will need to walk around a bit as Anchorage is very spread out. This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Soon after the ships hull was ruptured, Prince William Sound was filled with oil. If you love the chaos and bustling pace of New York, you will go stir crazy in Anchorage or Juneau. Is Alaska a Good Place to Live? Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska Reasons not to move to Alaska. The sunsets in Alaska are regarded as the most beautiful on earth. These blood-sucking insects are most active during the warmer months of the year, typically from May to September. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. Yes, Alaska is generally considered to be a very tax-friendly state for residents. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. 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,. Alaska is a state which deals with numerous earthquakes each year. Some popular cities in the state include: Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska and a hub for commerce, culture, and outdoor recreation. Home ownership. Sitka Housing Options Homes For Sale New Homes What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in Alaska? Consider yourself as and adventurous sort that can forgo some creature comforts in return for epic natural bounty? Get yours today! With Alaskas 6,640 miles of coastline, tsunamis can happen. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. ), Why Is Newport Beach So Expensive? If you shop strategically, especially with your rewards cards, most of the cost difference can be offset with a little creative budgeting. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time . What's It like to live in Sitka? : r/alaska - reddit That is true because of the added transportation costs to move goods that far north. For those who live outside of this metroplex, the only option tends to be heating oil, which is much more expensive. Your email address will not be published. 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. Anchorage gets about five hours of sunlight during the winter solstice, with 19 hours of pitch-black sky. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska - newhomesinbarrie.ca Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. You have to love it and love the lifestyle to justify staying long term. Pros and cons - 5/23/2010 Just like most places, Parkersburg definitely has it's pros and cons. Some communities have their own licensing requirements to follow as well. Population: 2,683. Alaska was once thought of as a folly. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. There are also initiatives to support the development of greenhouses and other methods of growing produce in the state. 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 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. You will find plenty of cultural opportunities to explore in the community, with every amenity you would expect from an urban environment. Some refer to mosquitoes as the states official bird, given their ubiquity and ability to survive in harsh environments. If you have talked to people about moving to Alaska, then you might have heard that retail costs are higher in the state. 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. Ignore the cold while having a good soak in many of the natural hot springs in Alaska. Sitka also has a wider range of water -based activities compared to Skagway. Required fields are marked *. There are many features we have already discussed that draw people to this beautiful state. Pros; it is on an island. Those who move here will either stress out because they feel like no one is being responsible, or they will take a deep breath and embrace the relaxed attitude. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 40% of Alaskas population lives in rural areas that are considered frontier or remote.. 3. Sitka Pros And Cons Of Living In Sitka, Alaska, Moving to Sitka, USA In recent years, the amount of the dividend has ranged from a low of $900 to a high of $2,000. Thank you for taking the time to post this. 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 can embrace the life, or you can try to fight the elements. Because of its geographic place on the planet, winter in Alaska is not just cold; it is dark as well. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. A deadline that is more of a suggestion then a finite term. Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. It is important to consider these factors when looking at salary information for Alaska. 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. These symptoms can be especially difficult to cope with in a place like Alaska, where the long winters can make it feel like youre living in a never-ending episode of Game of Thrones (Winter is coming, and it never seems to leave). Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. Because food, other than the local food, needs to travel a great distance to get there, the prices are relatively high. Even with strict regulations and watchdog groups, cruise ships still pollute the pristine waters they travel through. Alaska is home to the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres. Chill, Diverse People. Residents in Alaska enjoy the ultimate summer. Usually, once people settle here, they want to remain. From small town fairs to large cultural events, there are always opportunities to come together and celebrate the things that make Alaska special. Compare Sitka, Alaska Cost of Living vs Anchorage, Alaska Cost of Living: Taxes, Childcare, Groceries, Health. One reason is the states location near the ocean. Only California and Hawaii residents will pay more for their fueling needs. Pros and Cons of Charter Fishing - Action Alaska Sportfishing Great idea. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). This disadvantage is especially noticeable if you happen to have a family emergency going on outside of the state. You will not find this type of behavior among the residents of Alaska. This check is a way for the state to share the wealth generated by the states oil and mineral resources with its residents. B- Sitka Schools HS graduation rate is equal to Alaska. One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. As symptoms become more severe, suicide can result. Anchorage never had a venue large enough for famous musicians to performuntil recently. Driving from Alaska to Seattle in 72 hours is possible if you dont make too many stops along the 1,000-mile trip. One of the things that makes Alaskan culture so interesting is its focus on the natural environment. As a local Alaskan, I can attest to the strong sense of community that exists in our state. 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. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cost of living in Alaska is 29.5% higher than the national average. For generations, dogsled racing has been one of the most prominent sports in Alaska. (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. In other words, its the Arctic Circle of flavor. To cope, some turn to overeating, alcohol, drugs, or extended periods of sleep. Thats because even if you decide that living here isnt right for you, a holiday visit still creates the perfect opportunity to relax. 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. A high school education is a basic prerequisite for most . One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. The summer season is also an enjoyable time in the state, with long days, plenty of sunshine, and a mild climate. 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. Cons: 1 - cost of living is high. What are the pros and cons of living in Alaska? The money can be used for anything that I choose, from paying bills to saving for a rainy day. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. Alaska is one of only a handful of states that does not have a state income tax. There is some truth to this idea that is percolating around the Internet. In addition to outdoor activities, there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks together throughout the year. The terrain attracts a hardy, adventure-seeking crowd, who will tell you the states unique beauty and abundant wildlife make the cold temperatures worth it. . Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. Activities that take place outside become a part of who you are. If you want to work as a freelancer or be self-employed, then you must become a business when you live in the state. It can get slightly warmer in February, but it will still average around 13. Breathtaking scenery. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. Skagway is heavily focused on history, with plaques, tours, and museums (several of which are free) all around the town. Commercial fishing is another occupation that many households practice in the state. Here are a few of these traditions valued by the residents of the state. 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. If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. This study also included collective feelings of financial security, community pride, and good health. 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. Pros And Cons Of Living In Alaska 2023 - Ablison Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. Pros + Cons of Living in Sitka (Barrow, Hope: for rent, condo, house Russia and America completed the purchase agreement in 1867. 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. The long, dark winters can lead to a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (more on that below). You just learn to dress for the colder weather. When youre living in Anchorage, the temperature tends to hover around 70 in July and August. 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 Alaskan highways overall road quality and their feeder routes are good, except for some summer road construction. Many of Alaskas rivers are perfect for whitewater rafting, cruise the coastal waters by boat or take a flightseeing tour of glaciers. 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. Alaska offers you plenty of small-town charm, even in the big cities. 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. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. Furthermore, Alaska is a state surrounded by pristine bodies of water. There are numerous job opportunities available in Alaska right now. 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. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. The payment in 2017 was $1,100 per person. 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. The state earns its revenues through a tax burden on businesses, as Alaska does not have an income tax. For example, if the price of oil drops or there is a decline in the demand for fish, it can have a negative impact on the states economy. There are several opportunities to pursue your sport of choice during the summer as well. So many artists will not come to Alaska to perform. It is important to note that costs are higher in Alaska because of transportation and its isolation. The expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. 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. The inland Alaskan Arctic, where the skies are clearer, is one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights. They are really an issue only from the second week in June to the last week in July. According to Realtor.com, Anchorage's median listing home price was $339,000 in February 2022, trending up 7.9% year-over-year. The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. Even the sidewalks can be dangerous after a snowfall. Dog sleds remained an essential mode of transportation even after the Gold Rush era. 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. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. Living in Alaska - Pros and Cons & Cost of Living - WTS The land what eventually become the 49th state in 1957. Local taxes tend to be lower than they are in the continental 48 states as well. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. On the other hand, a resource extraction economy can also be vulnerable to changes in the market or shifts in consumer demand. McKinley. While there are things to do, city life is slow compared to larger cities in the country. However, this is not the case. Call it a way of life. What many people do not realize is that Japan actually occupied two Alaskan islands during World War II for 15 months. Another reason why Alaskas air and water are so clean is the states commitment to protecting the environment. In Sitka there are a lot of bars and coffee shops. Please share your experience here: When we get comments from people on Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska, we publish them here. Median rent price. As so many people today communicate by cell phone or send text messages, use the Internet, etc., this can be an inconvenience difficult to deal with. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. 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. These people are defined by their language groups and are considered Alaskan Natives. Even if you make your home in Anchorage, there is an excellent chance that you will encounter a moose at least once per day. Pro's and Con's of living in Alaska. Are you happy living - reddit This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). For example, some communities have established local farmers markets or community gardens where residents can purchase locally-grown produce. In recent years, there have been efforts to reconsider the lack of a state sales tax in Alaska. 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. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. 9. (Top 10 Reasons), Why Is Cancn So Expensive? 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. Compared to other locations in the country, even the southern locations of Alaska have more snowfall. Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? Then the next largest community is Wasilla, with just 10,000 residents. it's cool - pros and cons of anchorage - 9/5/2022 it's nice, i liked it when i grew up there. Self-employed individuals or freelancers must become a business when living in Alaska. If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. If you decide to make your home around Anchorage when you move to Alaska, then the weather will feel somewhat temperate. Many tour companies offer wildlife viewing cruises and excursions to see whales, seals, and other marine animals. It is thought that the Inuit invented dog sleds to transport supplies and food to their people. Hotel costs, gas, food, etc., need to figure into your decision. The fair includes nightly concerts, games and carnival rides, and much food unique to the state. The moist air from the ocean is forced upward by the mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the state. While Alaska has many incredible natural wonders, they are not always easy to get to. 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. Numerous communities in the northern half of the state experience sub-zero temperatures throughout the year. Daylight is nonexistent in the northernmost regions for months at a time, which creates a physiological shift in disposition and mood. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. 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. 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. Alaska is a good place to retire for people who love nature, dont live on a fixed income, and are alright with harsh weather. Expect to pay about $.45 per gallon more for your fuel needs when you move to the state. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. 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 frost-free growing season in Alaska lasts for about 100 days. Thanks for the replies! We are passionate about home decor, design, and all things home related. 5 Myths About Retiring in Alaska - Alaska Tour Jobs 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. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. Many families and young professionals live in Sitka. Watching these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time Learn More. Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. Pros + Cons of Living in Sitka (Anchorage, Ketchikan: 2015, safe, bars 5. You will find dog sled races, whale festivals and native arts and music festivals. 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. This becomes obvious if you have a family emergency happening outside the state. 10. In the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. It also gives you a chance to embrace the small-town charm that dominates the culture in the state. Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! Not many states are as beautiful as Alaska. Automatically get personalized recommendations on where to move. This is higher than the national median salary, which was $45,790 during the same time period. After living in the state for a full calendar year, residents will qualify for what is called the PFD payment. 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. In the summer, the days are long and the wildflowers are in bloom, creating a colorful tapestry across the landscape. Through its established Permanent Fund Dividend Program, Alaska will pay you to move there. The states natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and relatively low cost of living make it an appealing destination for retirees. Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. But what made it more notable was the pristine setting where it took place. 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. 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. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. When Alaska was first established as a state in 1959, its economy was primarily based on fishing, mining, and other extractive industries. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. Moose attacks are a prevalent thing in Alaska. 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. 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. But why is Alaska so rainy? COST OF LIVING: Sitka: Alaska: USA Overall: 116.6: 116.5: 100 Grocery: 146.4: 141.7 . That makes it the third-highest state for average prices in this area. Alaska was ranked the most outdoorsy state in America with 81 percent of the population being involved in outdoor activities. That means you are going to be doing a lot of blowing, shoveling, and plowing to keep your driveway and walkways clear. Many families can still save money because of how taxes are structured here. In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. From its early beginnings as a bridge of land extending from Siberia to its declaration as a U.S. state in 1959, Alaska has an exciting and dynamic history. 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. You can whale watch in Juneau, watch or participate in dog sledding with huskies, explore ice caves, view the beauty of the Northern Lights. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Get out there and meet people and you'll meet some very interesting people. The Pros of living in Sitka is that it truly is beautiful. You heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important then living in Alaska just got easier. Exploring the wild forests, paddling a kayak through the crystal-clear waters, and taking a deep breath of the clean, fresh air, Alaska is a place where you can truly be free. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. For some families, that is enough incentive to make the move immediately. The low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. Moving to Alaska might not be quite your speed. Including the: Pacific Ocean Gulf of Alaska Bering Sea Chukchi Sea Beaufort Sea 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. The cost of groceries and health care are also higher in Alaska compared to the national average. Sitka, AK - Niche Alaska has 35 species of mosquito, and all but a few will bite humans. In rural areas, for example, people often rely on their neighbors for help with things like shoveling snow or carpooling.