From the moment you set foot in this wild, beautiful land, you can feel the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins. 1. One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. Moving to Sitka, Alaska in 2023 - Dwellics Another reason why Alaskas air and water are so clean is the states commitment to protecting the environment. Here are some interesting statistics about Alaskas natural beauty: No matter where you go in Alaska, youre sure to be awestruck by the beauty of the natural world. It can get slightly warmer in February, but it will still average around 13. 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. 3. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska The more rural cities can feel like youre on the surface of the moon. Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Native American, Russian, and American influences. With its spectacular beauty, many recreational opportunities, and plentiful wildlife, there is an adventure at every turn in Americas last frontier. This can be a difficult adjustment for newcomers living in Alaska. Automatically get personalized recommendations on where to move. Backpacking, canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, hang gliding, and so much more are available in Alaska because the summers are perfect for them. 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. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time . One of the things that makes the sense of community so strong is the fact that many Alaskans are involved in outdoor activities together such as fishing, hunting, and hiking. The pros: pretty low crime rate (although it's growing more and more every year . Here are some tips to help repel the mosquito. A buddy of mine brought Sitka gear to Kodiak last fall. Numerous communities in the northern half of the state experience sub-zero temperatures throughout the year. Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska - dwellics.com In addition to outdoor activities, there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks together throughout the year. Because food, other than the local food, needs to travel a great distance to get there, the prices are relatively high. While this can vary in size from year to year, it ranges from $800 to $1,100. Visitors to the park can take guided tours or explore on their own to see the parks incredible wildlife. 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. 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. Here are a few of these traditions valued by the residents of the state. 1. Prices for both of those items are obscene. 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. For those who already live in Alaska, it is not surprising that their state was ranked #1 as the happiest place to live in America by a well-being study conducted by Gallup-Healthways in 2015. Ready to head to Americas Last Frontier? McKinley, which is the tallest mountain in North America at 20,320 feet. The cost of living in Alaska is higher than the national average. If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska is for you. As a resident of Alaska, you get to experience the renowned Alaska State Fair, which is one of the best in the country. This disadvantage is especially noticeable if you happen to have a family emergency going on outside of the state. Situated in the far north, Alaska is surrounded by cold, clean ocean waters that are teeming with a wide variety of fish and shellfish. The average amount of the dividend check is around $1,600, although the actual amount can vary from year to year depending on the performance of the fund. Because of its remote location, much of the produce consumed in the state must be shipped in from other parts of the country or even abroad. Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska. Find out Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska. The costs make the town kind of love it or leave it. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. Thanks in advance! 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! Alaska has some of the best air quality in America, 10. A deadline that is more of a suggestion then a finite term. If you choose to buy a home, know that some cities exempt seniors from part of their property tax. Living in Alaska could just be for you. Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). It is really easy to start a business after you move to Alaska. The state also experiences powerful volcanic eruptions from time to time, including the most powerful of the 20th century at Novarupta Volcano. Driving from Alaska to Seattle in 72 hours is possible if you dont make too many stops along the 1,000-mile trip. What many people do not realize is that Japan actually occupied two Alaskan islands during World War II for 15 months. Russia and America completed the purchase agreement in 1867. The Natural Splendor If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. Except for areas where there is a concentration of wood-burning for home heating, the air quality is the freshest in the world. The public schools in Sitka are above average. 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. However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. When you move to Alaska, you will discover that there are military, transportation, healthcare, and construction jobs readily available. 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. The cons, however, include high gas prices and the cost of living. 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. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. If you love the chaos and bustling pace of New York, you will go stir crazy in Anchorage or Juneau. There are even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. Visitors and residents can view them between September and late April. 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. The long, dark winters can lead to a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (more on that below). Pros of Moving to Alaska 1. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska 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. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cost of living in Alaska is 29.5% higher than the national average. The median home price in Alaska is $337,222 which is well below the national average of 398,500. The high cost of goods in Alaska can be particularly burdensome for low-income individuals and families, who may struggle to afford the necessities of daily life. The states abundant natural resources, including oil, natural gas, seafood, and natural wonders are the main drivers of its economy. The fair includes nightly concerts, games and carnival rides, and much food unique to the state. The cost of living in Alaska can also be attractive. Including the: Pacific Ocean Gulf of Alaska Bering Sea Chukchi Sea Beaufort Sea Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. It typically occurs during the fall and winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. Because not all companies ship products to Alaska, obtaining the items you ordered can be a problem. It ranks fifth for the lowest sales tax in the country but first in overall tax burden for companies. In fact, according to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, Alaska is home to over 200 Native American tribes and language groups, making it one of the most diverse states in the country in terms of indigenous cultures. pros and cons of living in sitka alaska - mamafengshui.com.au Loathe darkness, cold weather, rain, and high prices. Alaska was ranked the most outdoorsy state in America with 81 percent of the population being involved in outdoor activities. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. Lets get started! Some folks I know use it toward a vacation every year. One of the advantages of a resource extraction economy is that it can provide good jobs and a stable source of income for many people. The temperatures dropped to a record of minus 80F in 1971 at Prospect Creek Camp. 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. 09-28-2015, 02:38 PM rntim Location: sitka, Alaska 279 posts, read 362,335 times Reputation: 381 I live in Sitka. If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 1,700 species of plants and animals. Those are the only career opportunities that are available. If living in a more remote area of the state and want to see the capital of Alaska, plan to take a boat or plane. 6. 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. Pros & Cons Overview Jobs80% Housing85% Affordability60% Safety60% Amenities60% Diversity90% Education85% Commute100% Is Sitka, Alaska safe place to live? In the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. 8. 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. Alaska is home to the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres. Search for Alaska flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. 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. Pros than cons to living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their.. Magic of the 20 highest mountain peaks in States hiking, and economic If you decide to make your home around Anchorage when you move to Alaska, then the weather will feel somewhat temperate. Some refer to mosquitoes as the states official bird, given their ubiquity and ability to survive in harsh environments. 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. PRO: Lots of wild animals. That makes it a paradise for those who love to go hunting and fishing. You are going to be exposed to the Great Outdoors all of the time. They are more plentiful than you may expect. Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. The state of Alaska does not have a state sales tax. Benefits of Retiring In Alaska (Pros & Cons) | Retire Fearless Blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, salmonberries can be found on Alaskas hiking trails. Coastal towns collect more than $60 million in revenue through the docking fees and other taxes. So many artists will not come to Alaska to perform. big sur carmel, monterey itinerary . Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. Venture to Alaska if you want to see the Aurora Borealis. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. 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. Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. 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 . - Anchorage housing costs are 18.0% less expensive than Sitka housing costs. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time Learn More. This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. 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. 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. These events are associated with the Aleutian Trench, a subduction zone, where the Pacific plate is pushed under the American continents crust. For most rural residents in Alaska, subsistence hunting is critical to their food security, nutrition, and economic stability. It is not unusual to encounter wildlife every day when you are living in Alaska. One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. 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. Because there is plenty of sunshine deep into the night during the summer months, you will discover more opportunities to explore trails, kayak in bays, and embrace the explore waiting within. On average, Anchorage has over 30 inches of snow, from January to March, with another 30 inches accumulating during November and December combined. Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. 56% 12% lower than the US average. Some popular cities in the state include: Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska and a hub for commerce, culture, and outdoor recreation. 2023 Compare Cities Cost of Living: Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016, Colorado Vs. California (Whats The Difference? You can save money in other ways by moving to Alaska as well. If you are a married couple with four children, then you received a $6,600 PFT payment. Hunting options include grouse, hare, mountain goat or brown bear, hunting in the rainforest region. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. Hotel costs, gas, food, etc., need to figure into your decision. The vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. 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. Dwellics instantly analyzes thousands of relevant data points and your selected preferences like lifestyle, weather, community and more to find the perfect place for you to live. Some communities have their own licensing requirements to follow as well. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. 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. Cost of Living in Sitka, Alaska. Alaska has sunshine for almost 20 hours a day. According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Alaska is home to more than half of the worlds brown bears and is the only state in the U.S. where you can find all three species of North American bears: the grizzly, black, and polar bears. For someone who receives one of these dividend checks, its always a welcome boost to the old income. 1. The wildlife is as incredible as they say, 4. 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. This means that the states economy is heavily dependent on its natural resources, which can be a good thing but also has its challenges (outside of the obvious ones like massive negative contributions to climate change). And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. Sitka Housing Options Homes For Sale New Homes Life tends to move a lot slower when living in Alaska. For example, some communities have established local farmers markets or community gardens where residents can purchase locally-grown produce. The money can be used for anything that I choose, from paying bills to saving for a rainy day. It is held in Palmer, Alaska, in the late summer and dates back to 1936. You will also need to consider the cost of the trip before deciding to travel. It can get extremely cold in Alaska, even during the summer months. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. Alaska is home to over 100 species of mammals, including brown bears, moose, wolves & over 400 species of birds, including bald eagles and puffins. Is Alaska a Good Place to Live? Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska They used Attu and Kiska has a potential launching point if they were ever going to try to invade the continental 48 states. These people are defined by their language groups and are considered Alaskan Natives. That means you are going to be doing a lot of blowing, shoveling, and plowing to keep your driveway and walkways clear. Despite these challenges, there are efforts underway to improve access to fresh produce in Alaska. Whether youre hiking through the towering peaks of the Alaska Range, fishing for wild salmon in a glacial stream, or simply gazing at the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you, Alaska has a way of making you feel alive like nowhere else on earth. You may receive another 30 inches during the months of November and December combined. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. In addition to its incredible landscape, Alaska is also home to many glaciers, including the world famous Mendenhall Glacier. The payment in 2017 was $1,100 per person. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. Pros; it is on an island. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. Pros + Cons of Living in Sitka (Anchorage, Ketchikan: 2015, safe, bars 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. 15 Reasons to Consider Moving to Alaska - Moving.com Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. As a result, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reports that over 90% of the states surface waters are classified as clean or moderately clean, with only a small number of areas classified as polluted.. You will need to adjust to doing a lot of shoveling, blowing, and plowing to keep your walkways and driveway clear. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska 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. Alaska has a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities, including over 3 million acres of state park land. In more recent years, Alaska has also been influenced by the cultures of European explorers and settlers, as well as more recent immigrants from various parts of the world. There are about 5,000 earthquakes that happen every year in the state of Alaska. That never happened, but it is an interesting part of U.S. history that isnt always taught in history class. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. The estimated population of Alaska is 738,000. 25 Pros of Living in Alaska There are many reasons why Alaska living is amazing. The frost-free growing season in Alaska lasts for about 100 days. Cordova. 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. Only a certain type of human decides to live in an isolated community on an Alaskan island, and none of them are boring. Some of this number leave and move elsewhere, but many return to Alaska. 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. Property taxes are generally low, and the sales tax is non-existent. But what made it more notable was the pristine setting where it took place. Moose and caribou are abundant throughout Alaska. There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. With Alaskas 6,640 miles of coastline, tsunamis can happen. 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. 9. They can be triggered by landslides, volcanic eruptions, or earthquakes. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. This makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. Electricity and gas bills are 33% above the national average in Alaska. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. You get an opportunity to embrace a slower pace in life that focuses on individual dreams. 10 Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska Right Now The states population is relatively small and sparsely distributed, with much of the population concentrated in the urban centers of Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. 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. Every winter, thousands of Alaskans suffer from SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder. Alaska ranks second to Wyoming for the highest rate of suicide in the country. See gorgeous pictures and amazing stories of happy Premier Pups Maltese dogs living in Hobart Bay, Alaska. 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. 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. Highways are paved in most areas, and the amount of traffic poses no problems for commuters. 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. Pros: Nice, quiet small town Good controls on development; no big box stores or too many chain stores, etc Beautiful esp.