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The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. If you are thinking about moving to Alaska then prepare to combat SAD. There are even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. Living in Alaska pays dividends, literally, 8. There are several positions that help to support the tourism industry in the state as well. Looking to fill those lungs with some fresh, clean air? 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 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. People who live in Alaska are called Alaskans. 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. 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. Some folks I know use it toward a vacation every year. According to Realtor.com, Anchorage's median listing home price was $339,000 in February 2022, trending up 7.9% year-over-year. - The average commute for residents of Anchorage is 8.4 minutes longer than it is for residents of Sitka. 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. Because of the risk of contamination and sickness, prepare to filter or treat the water if necessary. In rural areas, for example, people often rely on their neighbors for help with things like shoveling snow or carpooling. 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. Driving from Alaska to Seattle in 72 hours is possible if you dont make too many stops along the 1,000-mile trip. If you are considering residency in Alaska, you need to weigh both the pros and cons to determine if Alaska is right for you. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. And the road systems are fine with me, too. One of the things that makes Alaskan culture so interesting is its focus on the natural environment. Home ownership. 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. One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. You can whale watch in Juneau, watch or participate in dog sledding with huskies, explore ice caves, view the beauty of the Northern Lights. 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. Bears are everywhere in Alaska, and they are not afraid to attack. Local taxes tend to be lower than they are in the continental 48 states as well. Oil spills continue to occur regularly in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred. The state also experiences powerful volcanic eruptions from time to time, including the most powerful of the 20th century at Novarupta Volcano. Property taxes are generally low, and the sales tax is non-existent. Larger cities like Fairbanks, Juneau, & Anchorage have pretty much all the amenities you could hope for as well as entertainment. If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. Additionally, Alaskas coastal location means that it is often hit by storms, which can bring even more precipitation. Those are the only career opportunities that are available. In addition to the high cost of transporting goods to the state, the small population of Alaska also contributes to the high prices of goods. $341,600 85% higher than the US average. Pros and cons of living in Madison Wisconsin. 6. Living in Alaska could just be for you. It is held in Palmer, Alaska, in the late summer and dates back to 1936. There isnt an argument to make for any other location. 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. 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. ZIPS IN SITKA, ALASKA 99835 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,. The Alaska Airlines Center was built, and famous acts now have a place to perform. 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. But why is Alaska so rainy? Terrific information. Pros; it is on an island. Some of these longstanding traditions may seem odd to outsiders, but they are captivating and essential to the residents living throughout the rural villages and more populated areas in Alaska. Low crime, schools are good, etc. From the moment you set foot in this wild, beautiful land, you can feel the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins. 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. Half of the current population of the state lives in the Anchorage metropolitan area. Very interesting info!Perfect just what I was looking for! In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Alaska will cost you somewhere between $1,000 and $1,169 per month, or less in some smaller, scenic areas like Kenai. Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. In addition to its incredible landscape, Alaska is also home to many glaciers, including the world famous Mendenhall Glacier. Much of the land in Alaska is owned by the federal government, and there are strict regulations on how it can be used. Another issue is the lack of available land for development. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. Alaska puts you face-to-face with wildlife all of the time. You can spend lots of time hiking, fishing, whale watching. Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). The median values are higher for some bigger cities, such as Juneau and Anchorage, with prices averaging $364,000 and $303,000, respectively. 3. For example, some communities have established local farmers markets or community gardens where residents can purchase locally-grown produce. 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%. Find out Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska. Through its established Permanent Fund Dividend Program, Alaska will pay you to move there. The constant buzzing and biting can be annoying, and in some cases, mosquitoes can even transmit diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria. The Pros of living in Sitka is that it truly is beautiful. 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. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. The cons, however, include high gas prices and the cost of living. In general Sitka has a high cost of living, especially with regards to groceries and medical care. 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. So, while the darkness in Alaska can be beautiful and magical at times, it can also be a real challenge. The expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. What many people do not realize is that Japan actually occupied two Alaskan islands during World War II for 15 months. McKinley, which is the tallest mountain in North America at 20,320 feet. They are indigenous peoples of the state. 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. 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. Alaska will never rank high from a culinary perspective, but there are a few quality meals to be found. The most notable of them is Mt. The higher median salary in Alaska is likely due in part to the states high cost of living, as well as the presence of higher-paying industries such as oil and gas. 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. 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. 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 is not the same level of hectic chaos here like there is in most of the rest of the world. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. The climate is severe, and the strain of life can demand a heavy price. An amount below 100 means Sitka is cheaper than the US average. What makes them seem like that? If you decide to move in or around Anchorage, the weather may feel somewhat temperate, but you will experience a shorter summer. The average high temperature for the city in the month of January is 0. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. You heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important then living in Alaska just got easier. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time Learn More. Oh, okay. 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. Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. Coastal towns collect more than $60 million in revenue through the docking fees and other taxes. 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. One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. You will also need to consider the cost of the trip before deciding to travel. It can get slightly warmer in February, but it will still average around 13. 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. They are really an issue only from the second week in June to the last week in July. 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 more rural cities can feel like youre on the surface of the moon. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? 3. Get out there and meet people and you'll meet some very interesting people. Loathe darkness, cold weather, rain, and high prices. Alaska is the most outdoorsy state in America, 4. Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. However, others are concerned that a sales tax could be detrimental to the states economy and place an additional burden on residents and businesses. Fishing is also an option in the states rivers and streams. It ranks fifth for the lowest sales tax in the country but first in overall tax burden for companies. 8. Additionally, marijuana businesses are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of schools or other areas where children are present. Skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, backpacking, and snowmobiling are all activities that will become part of your life when you move here. However, you must be aware of what you are eating, as some might be poisonous. 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. 4. 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. Cordova has a small-town vibe due to its tiny population of fewer than 3,000 people and is only accessible by ferry. One common misconception about SAD is that it only affects people who live in cold climates. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. 9. 1. This is a favorable statistic, as the national average is $1,450. 6. PRO: Lots of wild animals. Roads and transportation systems have become very reliable; however, in Alaska it hasnt always been and still isnt as easy as in other places. The Pros & Cons of Living in Ashland vs. Bend, The following errors occurred with your submission. Spokesperson for the group said they have spent the last few months considering the pros and cons of moving forward this year despite the risks and uncertainty associated with the . Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. The ordinary and the extraordinary. it's cool - pros and cons of anchorage - 9/5/2022 it's nice, i liked it when i grew up there. 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 city of Ketchikan, in particular, is known for its high levels of rainfall, with an average of over 150 inches per year. Looking to move to Alaska to save on taxes? When you consider that they receive a yearly sum from the Permanent Fund, living in Alaska is a great way to save money. B- Sitka Schools HS graduation rate is equal to Alaska. Mushing is a sport or mode of transportation powered by dogs. One reason is the states location near the ocean. That is due to the higher cost of transportation and the isolation factor of the state. It is thought that the Inuit invented dog sleds to transport supplies and food to their people. The most notable of them is Mt. 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. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cost of living in Alaska is 29.5% higher than the national average. 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. For those who live outside of this metroplex, the only option tends to be heating oil, which is much more expensive. Our cost of living indices are based on a US average of 100. Smaller places with 1 BD are cheaper but if you have a family, 3BD are $1500/mo and up. Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016, Colorado Vs. California (Whats The Difference? Alaska ranks second to Wyoming for the highest rate of suicide in the country. Hunting options include grouse, hare, mountain goat or brown bear, hunting in the rainforest region. With Alaskas 6,640 miles of coastline, tsunamis can happen. In addition to outdoor activities, there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks together throughout the year. While SAD is more common in areas with long, dark winters, it can also affect people who live in other parts of the world. Cons: 1 - cost of living is high. In Sitka there are a lot of bars and coffee shops. You can save money in other ways by moving to Alaska as well. First of all, Alaska is a state of mountains. . The median listing home price per square foot was $202. 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. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. 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. The overall crime rate in Sitka, Alaska is 8% lower than national average. 1. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! Moving to Alaska might not be quite your speed. Living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. 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 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. As symptoms become more severe, suicide can result. Median rent price. COST OF LIVING: Sitka: Alaska: USA Overall: 116.6: 116.5: 100 Grocery: 146.4: 141.7 . Thanks in advance! Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. These blood-sucking insects are most active during the warmer months of the year, typically from May to September. It is one of the few places in the world where someone with virtually no experience can still catch enough fish or hunt as a way to feed their family for an entire year. 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. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary in Alaska was $77,060 in 2021.