But why is Alaska so rainy? 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. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. Living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. Yes, Alaska is generally considered to be a very tax-friendly state for residents. Loathe darkness, cold weather, rain, and high prices. If you choose to buy a home, know that some cities exempt seniors from part of their property tax. Pros; it is on an island. They are more plentiful than you may expect. You just learn to dress for the colder weather. As a result, many people end up living in small, crowded homes or temporary housing, such as trailers or cabins. (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. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. In Alaska, the sense of community is strong. Visitors can also go birdwatching in the states many wetlands and forests, or take a trip to see the Northern Lights. The name Alaska comes from the Aleut word alyeska, which means great land.. Electricity and gas bills are 33% above the national average in Alaska. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. For example, some communities have established local farmers markets or community gardens where residents can purchase locally-grown produce. This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. The decision to not impose a state sales tax in Alaska is rooted in the states history and its reliance on natural resource extraction for revenue. Compared to other locations in the country, even the southern locations of Alaska have more snowfall. 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. Property taxes are generally low, and the sales tax is non-existent. Maltese Dog Pictures . There are also initiatives to support the development of greenhouses and other methods of growing produce in the state. 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. Most people find that the rewards far outweigh whatever sacrifices they may need to make. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. 1. When youre living in Anchorage, the temperature tends to hover around 70 in July and August. However, it is important to note that marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and there are some restrictions on its use in Alaska. Pros and cons - 5/23/2010 Just like most places, Parkersburg definitely has it's pros and cons. Darkness here can be a real challenge. 4. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. 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. While this can vary in size from year to year, it ranges from $800 to $1,100. If bar hopping is to your liking, you will need to walk around a bit as Anchorage is very spread out. Then the next largest community is Wasilla, with just 10,000 residents. 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. 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 . Outdoor activities are literally endless for the adventure-seeking individual. The pros: pretty low crime rate (although it's growing more and more every year . Even if you make your home in Anchorage, there is an excellent chance that you will encounter a moose at least once per day. 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. 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. However, you must be aware of what you are eating, as some might be poisonous. Please share your experience here: When we get comments from people on Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska, we publish them here. Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. Alaskas economy is largely based on resource extraction, such as fishing, mining, and oil drilling. This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. The typical household in Sitka earns $81708 a year, compared to the national median of $67,500.Nearly 29.1% of households earn less than $50,000 a year compared to 39% national rate. ZIPS IN SITKA, ALASKA 99835 The cold really becomes a problem if you move farther north. To cope, some turn to overeating, alcohol, drugs, or extended periods of sleep. Located in Denali National Park. Much of the land in Alaska is owned by the federal government, and there are strict regulations on how it can be used. This lack of availability means that many individuals and families are forced to compete for a limited number of rental units, which can drive up prices. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. Pros and Cons of Living in Idaho Alaska's social life consists of activities and events very particular to their culture. Usually, once people settle here, they want to remain. 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. The temperatures dropped to a record of minus 80F in 1971 at Prospect Creek Camp. Hike through Denali National Park or cruise the Seward Highway. The low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. The fees for a business licenses are non-refundable, so if you make an error on your application, then you must pay for a second fee. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. In addition to outdoor activities, there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks together throughout the year. Chill, Diverse People. 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. That means your tax burden is potentially higher than what it would be in some other states. 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. Despite its reputation for cold weather and snow, Alaska is actually one of the rainiest states in the United States. Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016, Colorado Vs. California (Whats The Difference? Your email address will not be published. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. 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. The more rural cities can feel like youre on the surface of the moon. In fact, there are so many different types of seafood to choose from in Alaska that you could eat a different type of fish or shellfish every day for a year and still have some leftovers. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. In fact, according to the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, over half of the households in rural Alaska are considered overcrowded.. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. Additionally, marijuana businesses are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of schools or other areas where children are present. While Alaska has diverse geographical regions with different climates, Alaska is known for its long nights and winters no matter where you go. Cost of Living Find Your Best Place Quiz City Compare Climate Top Lists Rankings Schools Find a Place DataEngine Interactive Map. Alaska is one of only a handful of states that does not have a state income tax. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. Some of this number leave and move elsewhere, but many return to Alaska. 7. The lack of available housing in Alaska, particularly in rural areas, can make it difficult for residents to find a place to live. Bears are everywhere in Alaska, and they are not afraid to attack. Dog sleds remained an essential mode of transportation even after the Gold Rush era. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary in Alaska was $77,060 in 2021. Some homes can get through the season using coal or wood with an interior stove to limit costs, but you will be trading time for money with that choice. The cost of living in Alaska is higher than the national average. In March of that year, Prince William Sound experienced a magnitude 9.2 earthquake. Get yours today! The majority of people in the state are homeowners, however. As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. Oil spills continue to occur regularly in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred. In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. According to Realtor.com, Anchorage's median listing home price was $339,000 in February 2022, trending up 7.9% year-over-year. 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. Sitka has 15 fishing charter companies, while Skagway only has three. 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. Additionally, the tourism industry is a major contributor to the states economy, with many visitors coming to Alaska to see its natural beauty and participate in outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting. June 21 has almost 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the year. what was necessary before the mariner could be restored to life again +91 88380 06318 Fairbanks, a city known for its vibrant arts and culture scene and access to outdoor activities. You will find dog sled races, whale festivals and native arts and music festivals. That makes it the third-highest state for average prices in this area. As a local Alaskan, I can attest to the strong sense of community that exists in our state. They are really an issue only from the second week in June to the last week in July. Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK Change Cities Highlights - The Median Age in Anchorage is 5.9 years younger than in Sitka. The median values are higher for some of the bigger cities, with Anchorage and Juneau standing at $303,601 and $364,295, respectively. 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. It ranks fifth for the lowest sales tax in the country but first in overall tax burden for companies. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. Because of its geographic place on the planet, winter in Alaska is not just cold; it is dark as well. The cost of housing in particular is high in the state, with the average home price in Alaska being nearly twice the national average. 7. 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. Alaska was once thought of as a folly. These people are defined by their language groups and are considered Alaskan Natives. That is how Alaska got the name Land of the Midnight Sun.. When you move to Alaska, you will discover that there are military, transportation, healthcare, and construction jobs readily available. 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. The worst thing for most people is the dreadful cold. If you shop strategically, especially with your rewards cards, most of the cost difference can be offset with a little creative budgeting. 56% 12% lower than the US average. A Travel Website About Portland and Oregon, Article Overview: Living in Alaska, Moving to Alaska. 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. The violent crime rate of Sitka is 52% lower than national average. And the road systems are fine with me, too. Another one of the major challenges of living in Alaska is the high cost of goods. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? If you are considering residency in Alaska, you need to weigh both the pros and cons to determine if Alaska is right for you. PRO: Lots of wild animals. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. Chartered fishing trips are a great way to spend your time on the sea on a high-quality fishing boat that you will not have to operate or upkeep, and that allows you to fish in a variety of areas effortlessly. However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. Try Premium; Log In Sign Up. The suns view so far north is unbelievable. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. These blood-sucking insects are most active during the warmer months of the year, typically from May to September. This is due in part to the states remote location, which makes it difficult to access certain goods and services. In fact, over half of the land in Alaska is protected wilderness, ensuring that these beautiful landscapes will be preserved for generations to come. Alaska is home to over 100 species of mammals, including brown bears, moose, wolves & over 400 species of birds, including bald eagles and puffins. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. If you are thinking about moving to Alaska then prepare to combat SAD. No place is perfect not even Alaska. That means you are going to be struggling with about the same number of days with snow each year. 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. - Anchorage housing costs are 18.0% less expensive than Sitka housing costs. Consider yourself as and adventurous sort that can forgo some creature comforts in return for epic natural bounty? Living in Sitka Alaska Everyday life in Sitka, Alaska. 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. There is some truth to this idea that is percolating around the Internet. Only California and Hawaii residents will pay more for their fueling needs. 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. Many tour companies offer wildlife viewing cruises and excursions to see whales, seals, and other marine animals. 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. Alaskas nearness to the Arctic Circle means that day hours vary in intensity and length. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. 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. Low crime, schools are good, etc. Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 1,700 species of plants and animals. They are indigenous peoples of the state. Because of the risk of contamination and sickness, prepare to filter or treat the water if necessary. Of the two million tourists to visit the state each year, more than half will arrive by ship. If youre thinking of moving to Alaska, its important to be prepared for rain lots of it. This can make it difficult to access basic services and amenities, such as medical care and grocery stores. Residents in Alaska enjoy the ultimate summer. Reasons not to move to Alaska. You may receive another 30 inches during the months of November and December combined. As a resident of Alaska, you get to experience the renowned Alaska State Fair, which is one of the best in the country. The inland Alaskan Arctic, where the skies are clearer, is one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that is related to the changing seasons. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. 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. Oh, okay. Coastal towns collect more than $60 million in revenue through the docking fees and other taxes. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. Alaska has the best summers in the world. Numerous communities in the northern half of the state experience sub-zero temperatures throughout the year. There is not the same level of hectic chaos here like there is in most of the rest of the world. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Alaska has the highest cost of living of any state in the United States. The second largest industry in Alaska is tourism. Sitka is on an island and the only access is by plane or boat. The expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. Yearly, there are about 5,000 earthquakes in Alaska. The high cost of living in Alaska can be a challenge for many people, particularly for those on fixed incomes or low salaries. The military base nearby and international immigration has created a cultural melting pot in the area. A high school education is a basic prerequisite for most . Pros and Cons of Charter Fishing. Required fields are marked *. 3. Fishing is also an option in the states rivers and streams. Pros and cons of living in Madison Wisconsin. If long (and were talking looonnnggg) periods of darkness are challenging for you then moving to Alaska may not be your cup of tea. 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. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, was almost 300,000 people calling at their home. So many artists will not come to Alaska to perform. These events are associated with the Aleutian Trench, a subduction zone, where the Pacific plate is pushed under the American continents crust. Hotel costs, gas, food, etc., need to figure into your decision. In rural areas, for example, people often rely on their neighbors for help with things like shoveling snow or carpooling. If you are not a household that was living paycheck to paycheck, then this potential disadvantage does not apply to you. There are even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. Ready to head to Americas Last Frontier? For some families, that is enough incentive to make the move immediately. But mushing is still an essential part of life for some Alaskans. Driving from Alaska to Seattle in 72 hours is possible if you dont make too many stops along the 1,000-mile trip. You can save money in other ways by moving to Alaska as well. Another reason why Alaskas air and water are so clean is the states commitment to protecting the environment. 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. Cons; it is on an island. The most notable of them is Mt. Saved one of the best pros of living in Alaska for last. Median home value. Every day is casual Friday in this state. That money applies to every person in your family, including the kids. Get out there and meet people and you'll meet some very interesting people. One common misconception about SAD is that it only affects people who live in cold climates. Another negative effect of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on your safety. What many people do not realize is that Japan actually occupied two Alaskan islands during World War II for 15 months. The median rent for a studio and one-bedroom in Alaska is $17 and $21 cheaper than the national average in 2019. When Alaska was first established as a state in 1959, its economy was primarily based on fishing, mining, and other extractive industries. A gallon of milk can cost double what it would in other states. Airborne pollutants are monitored and regulated, but infractions are common with financial penalties. Contrary to what many people believe, living in Alaska is actually quite expensive with the cost of living nearly 30% higher than the national average.