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. Alaskas nearness to the Arctic Circle means that day hours vary in intensity and length. I can say that the culture in the USA is not of the oldest origins but it is safe to say that it is the most glamorous of all cultures existing in the world. 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. Flickr - JLS Photography - Alaska. There is a one in 15.2 chance of being a . More Economy. While judging the pros and cons of living in Illinois, you would have learned that the state is highly vulnerable to thunderstorms, lightning, floods, and tornadoes. Demands for a living wage that is fair to workers have resulted in numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels. 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. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. You will not find this type of behavior among the residents of Alaska. 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. People are going to take an individual approach to how they manage their time. The good news is that there are more pros than cons to living in Anchorage, Alaska. The money can be used for anything that I choose, from paying bills to saving for a rainy day. Alaska has a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities, including over 3 million acres of state park land. Darkness here can be a real challenge. As with many of the items on this list of pros and cons of living in Alaska, this largely depends on where you live. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. In fact, you can compare it with any of the most beautiful spots in the world because of its uniqueness and beauty. That is due to the higher cost of transportation and the isolation factor of the state. If you are a married couple with four children, then you received a $6,600 PFT payment. In Alaska, there are two seasons, road construction and winter. 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. People of all kinds and professions from students, nomads, musicians, actors, and businessmen to entrepreneurs, America has it all.. 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. There are even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. Its an adventure that exceeds some folks wildest dreams and drives other people out faster than you can say Ketchikan. 4. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. While this can vary in size from year to year, it ranges from $800 to $1,100. As of the latest estimates from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Alaska is 731,545. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. This is the perfect place for snow sports including hiking, skiing . That's the big picture view. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. Activities that take place outside become a part of who you are. We are passionate about home decor, design, and all things home related. Alaska is a beautiful and unique state with a lot to offer retirees. 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. Use the menu in the orange box - on the left if you're using a PC - to review a variety of detailed facts and statistics we analyzed, including cost of living, climate, safety, community, infrastructure, education, and a list of pros and cons based on data from more than four dozen trusted sources. 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. However, depending on where you're moving from, Anchorage might offer a lower cost of living. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). 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. (The Sound is Better)Somebody asked me, what it was like living in Alaska? As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. You will Master Snow Sports. When you move further north in the state, thats when the cold really becomes an issue. While bear attacks always make the headlines, they are few compared to the number of people who die of exposure in the extreme cold. $800 for groceries. And are of European descent. This check is a way for the state to share the wealth generated by the states oil and mineral resources with its residents. Many of Alaskas rivers are perfect for whitewater rafting, cruise the coastal waters by boat or take a flightseeing tour of glaciers. This expense is one of the most significant costs that you will face as a household if you decide to move here. Alaska is home to the four largest cities in the US by area. The industry also contributed over $2.2 billion in state and local tax revenue (talk about a vice grip). Commercial fishing is another occupation that many households practice in the state. Cost of Living in Alaska. The cost of living in Alaska can also be attractive. In March of that year, Prince William Sound experienced a magnitude 9.2 earthquake. The distinctive demographics in this unique area offer a feeling of pride in the residents. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. 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. 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. Those activities will make your stay memorable. Loathe darkness, cold weather, rain, and high prices. In Sitka there are a lot of bars and coffee shops. One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. The city of Ketchikan, in particular, is known for its high levels of rainfall, with an average of over 150 inches per year. You can get paid to live in Alaska once you qualify. First things first. Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. Alaska ranks high as one of the most popular cruising destinations in the world. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. 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. Skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, backpacking, and snowmobiling are all activities that will become part of your life when you move here. I lived in Juneau for three years and three months--1983-1986 and HATED it! The fair includes nightly concerts, games and carnival rides, and much food unique to the state. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. View future changes in the minimum wage in your location by visiting Minimum Wage Values in Sitka, AK. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. This disadvantage is especially noticeable if you happen to have a family emergency going on outside of the state. Additionally, the state offers a number of tax exemptions and credits for residents, such as the Alaska Permanent Fund dividend, which provides an annual payout to eligible residents. Incio > 2022 > junho > 10 > Uncategorized > pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. 5. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. Also you get a check just for living in Alaska. It's not just the price of groceries that are high in Alaska; it's the cost of everything. Yes, Alaska is generally considered to be a very tax-friendly state for residents. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. One of the negative effects of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on mental health. Because of the states remote location, many goods must be shipped in from other parts of the country or even abroad, which can drive up their cost. Many families and young professionals live in Sitka. There are four interstate highways for drivers to use, along with almost 3,000 miles of railroad tracks. Culture. From the moment you set foot in this wild, beautiful land, you can feel the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins. However, others are concerned that a sales tax could be detrimental to the states economy and place an additional burden on residents and businesses. If you are not a household that was living paycheck to paycheck, then this potential disadvantage does not apply to you. If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. This event caused the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai Park. Hotel costs, gas, food, etc., need to figure into your decision. 5. 8. The states population is relatively small and sparsely distributed, with much of the population concentrated in the urban centers of Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. Another one of the major challenges of living in Alaska is the high cost of goods. 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 daily commute in Alaskan cities is one of breathtaking views of lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and gleaming glaciers, which would make driving to work a pleasure for most residents. The trails in the city are closed frequently because of bear activity. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. They used Attu and Kiska has a potential launching point if they were ever going to try to invade the continental 48 states. There's also a huge amount of fun stuff to do outside and great places to go for low or no cost. ), Why Is Newport Beach So Expensive? This has created a diverse and vibrant cultural landscape, with over 20% of the states population being of Native American or Alaska Native descent. There are also initiatives to support the development of greenhouses and other methods of growing produce in the state. 7. 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,. Additionally, Alaskans pay a lot for electricity 23.42 cents/kWh as compared to the national average of 13.90 cents/kWh.iii. Call it a way of life. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. The majority of people in the state are homeowners, however. These events are associated with the Aleutian Trench, a subduction zone, where the Pacific plate is pushed under the American continents crust. Of the two million tourists to visit the state each year, more than half will arrive by ship. Additionally, marijuana businesses are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of schools or other areas where children are present. To maximize your chances of seeing them, Prudhoe Bay and Barrow in the extreme north or the remote northern villages of Coldfoot in the Yukon Territory offer the best possibility of viewing the Lights. Illinois is prone to natural disasters. For someone who receives one of these dividend checks, its always a welcome boost to the old income. It comprises of coastal beaches, fishing locations, several beautiful parks, hiking trails, rain-forests covered with moss, adventurous mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. Low cancer mortality rate. Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. Job Opportunities. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. Ready to head to Americas Last Frontier? The top industries in Alaska include oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and government. . The cost of living in Alaska is really high. Alaska is one of only a handful of states that does not have a state income tax. Average prices of more than 40 products and services in Ketchikan, AK, United StatesSep 2022. 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. 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. Automatically get personalized recommendations on where to move. Search for Kaua'i flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. List of the Pros of Living in Arkansas. While SAD is more common in areas with long, dark winters, it can also affect people who live in other parts of the world. General healthcare prices within the Anchorage metro area are an astonishing 82% above the national average, based on the Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016. 10. In addition, 71.8% of the homes in Alaska are placed somewhere between $108,722 and $435,285 in value. This park is famous for its brown bears, which can often be seen fishing for salmon in the parks rivers. Sitka real estate or Sitka rentals. Blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, salmonberries can be found on Alaskas hiking trails. Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. Once you live here for a year or two, it is not unusual to encounter someone youve never met, but they already feel like they know you. 1. The state also experiences powerful volcanic eruptions from time to time, including the most powerful of the 20th century at Novarupta Volcano. 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. 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. Because there are fewer consumers in the state, businesses may have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs and remain profitable. The second largest industry in Alaska is tourism. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Alaska has the highest cost of living of any state in the United States. . Clothes as many signature brands origin in there. 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. As a result, no urban developments have emerged in those areas. 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. Despite these challenges, there are efforts underway to improve access to fresh produce in Alaska. Here are some tips to help repel the mosquito. 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. This can make fresh fruits and vegetables more expensive and less readily available than in other parts of the country. $1,019 7% higher than the US average. There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. Too close to an airport. 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. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. Just as Anchorage gets lovely sunshine almost all day during the summer months, it is the opposite during the winter when darkness and cold take over. Like, literally. Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, was almost 300,000 people calling at their home. It rains 12 months of the year, is dark 20 hours a day in winter. 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. The average high temperature for the city in the month of January is 0. A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. As you probably know, Juneau is the . Most accidental deaths are from residents who die while sleeping due to carbon monoxide poisoning from clogged chimneys or faulty heaters. Don't plan on going anywhere with a frostbit battery. There are about 5,000 earthquakes that happen every year in the state of Alaska. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. This makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. 1. However, there can be some health disadvantages. As a local Alaskan, I can attest to the strong sense of community that exists in our state. Should you move to Sitka, Alaska? To cope, some turn to overeating, alcohol, drugs, or extended periods of sleep. 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%. AK Craft Brew & Barleywine Festival Giveaway. 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. Cheap housing facilities. Some parts of the state see nearly 24 hours of daylight during the season. Wild horses couldn't drag me back here. Another negative effect of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on your safety. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It also can get very hot in the summer, up to 97 degrees F. It's time to dig into the 10 pros and cons of living in Alaska. View Full Report Card. Some folks I know use it toward a vacation every year. 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. Like, EVER. 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. The worst thing for most people is the dreadful cold. Because Alaska is the least densely populated of the United States, you can unwind and relax in complete silence if you choose. However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. Property taxes are generally low, and the sales tax is non-existent. The fund was established in 1976 to conserve a portion of the states revenue from mineral resources, to help future generations of Alaskans, and attract new residents to the state. They have been performing for the last 49 years and showcase Alaska's Russian history through song and folk dance. Symptoms of SAD can include feelings of sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. When determining what cities are good for your personality, life situation, and personal preferences, there are many factors to consider including climate, cost of living, community, job opportunities, population makeup, activities, and things to do. This state has a depth of outdoor beauty. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. Because it is a lot colder in Alaska than in other states, your heating costs during the winter are going to be significantly higher. Alaska will become a significant investment for states. There are many pros for living in Anchorage like actually getting paid to live there (as in more than $1000 for every member of your household). Hope that you are able to leave there with the same delusion you have now about what a decent place it is. Despite their small size, mosquitoes can be a big problem in Alaska, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and those who live in rural areas. If youre thinking of moving to Alaska, its important to be prepared for rain lots of it. 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. This is a favorable statistic, as the national average is $1,450. The states abundant natural resources, including oil, natural gas, seafood, and natural wonders are the main drivers of its economy. You may receive another 30 inches during the months of November and December combined. And $2500 a month expenses that you so causally mention? But if something were to happen to you where you couldn't bring in that income, you got behind, believe me, it would be a different story. Overall, the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so its important to be prepared for a range of conditions when visiting the state. They are really an issue only from the second week in June to the last week in July. 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. Despite higher-than-average wages, low poverty level, and a sparse population, violent crimes are surprisingly frequent. 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. Best Cities for Outdoor Living in 2023 . This is higher than the national median salary, which was $45,790 during the same time period. One reason is the states location near the ocean. The estimated population per square kilometer (.62 miles) in Sitka is 1. Let's look at some of the benefits of living in Anchorage, Alaska. This can be a physically demanding and time-consuming job depending on where you live and how much it snows. Terrific information. If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. In addition to lack of houses to own, many Alaskan communities also face a lack of available rental units. McKinley, which is the tallest mountain in North America at 20,320 feet. Even if you make your home in Anchorage, there is an excellent chance that you will encounter a moose at least once per day. Anchorage gets about five hours of sunlight during the winter solstice, with 19 hours of pitch-black sky. Many tour companies offer wildlife viewing cruises and excursions to see whales, seals, and other marine animals. Because not all companies ship products to Alaska, obtaining the items you ordered can be a problem. The fish in Alaska are so big, you're guaranteed to break a rod at least once a season. Lodge owner and founder Karl Albert Hap Wurlitzer would have loved it. Alaska is a vast and very remote state with many communities being extremely isolated from the rest of the country.