Living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. You can whale watch in Juneau, watch or participate in dog sledding with huskies, explore ice caves, view the beauty of the Northern Lights. There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. If long (and were talking looonnnggg) periods of darkness are challenging for you then moving to Alaska may not be your cup of tea. 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. Moving to Alaska can be a bit SAD (were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder), 5. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. This becomes obvious if you have a family emergency happening outside the state. Alaska is the most outdoorsy state in America, 4. Only a certain type of human decides to live in an isolated community on an Alaskan island, and none of them are boring. It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. 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. For generations, dogsled racing has been one of the most prominent sports in Alaska. These events are associated with the Aleutian Trench, a subduction zone, where the Pacific plate is pushed under the American continents crust. Loathe darkness, cold weather, rain, and high prices. If you are not a household that was living paycheck to paycheck, then this potential disadvantage does not apply to you. PRO: Lots of wild animals. People who live in Alaska are called Alaskans. 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,. . 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. Of the two million tourists to visit the state each year, more than half will arrive by ship. Pros; it is on an island. In 2019, the timber industry in Alaska generated over $935 million in economic activity, supporting over 5,500 jobs. Automatically get personalized recommendations on where to move. 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. 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 distinctive demographics in this unique area offer a feeling of pride in the residents. 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. 25 Pro's And Con's Of Living In Alaska (2023 Updated) - Home Mindset 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. We almost all use Helly Hansen Impertec. Coastal towns collect more than $60 million in revenue through the docking fees and other taxes. The public schools in Sitka are above average. (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. The highest peak in North America, Mount Denali, is located in Alaska and stands at over 20,000 feet tall. Those are the only career opportunities that are available. The suns view so far north is unbelievable. Snow removal is going to become part of your daily life. Alaska receives no attention from authors and artists. Mountain View in Anchorage is rated one of the most diverse places to live in the United States. Even with strict regulations and watchdog groups, cruise ships still pollute the pristine waters they travel through. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary in Alaska was $77,060 in 2021. 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. Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. The wildlife is as incredible as they say, 4. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. There is a reason almost every car in Alaska, old or new, has a dent! The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. This study also included collective feelings of financial security, community pride, and good health. In March of that year, Prince William Sound experienced a magnitude 9.2 earthquake. If youre thinking of moving to Alaska, its important to be prepared for rain lots of it. Visitors can also go birdwatching in the states many wetlands and forests, or take a trip to see the Northern Lights. Local taxes tend to be lower than they are in the continental 48 states as well. One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. Because it is a lot colder in Alaska than in other states, your heating costs during the winter are going to be significantly higher. Thats because even if you decide that living here isnt right for you, a holiday visit still creates the perfect opportunity to relax. Dog sleds remained an essential mode of transportation even after the Gold Rush era. Although the overall cost of living in Alaska is relatively high because groceries and resources need to be shipped in and imported from great distances, real estate prices are rather affordable. 2. 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. You are going to be exposed to the Great Outdoors all of the time. Residents are not required to pay either income tax or sales tax. Sitka cost of living is 116.6. Alaskas nearness to the Arctic Circle means that day hours vary in intensity and length. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. To make things worse, Alaskan private company employees spend more than $99 over the national average for healthcare costs for one person. 15 Reasons to Consider Moving to Alaska - Moving.com Numerous communities in the northern half of the state experience sub-zero temperatures throughout the year. 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, Moving to Sitka, USA, Cost of Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK Change Cities Highlights - The Median Age in Anchorage is 5.9 years younger than in Sitka. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. You can take many flights from the continental 48 states to Alaska, but the distance you need to travel becomes surprisingly great after you make the move. 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. 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.. Situated in the far north, Alaska is surrounded by cold, clean ocean waters that are teeming with a wide variety of fish and shellfish. 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. Moose attacks are a prevalent thing in Alaska. Because of the risk of contamination and sickness, prepare to filter or treat the water if necessary. 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. McKinley. Alaska has the longest coastline of any state in the United States, at over 6,600 miles long. Alaska ranks high as one of the most popular cruising destinations in the world. Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. Here are a few of these traditions valued by the residents of the state. 1. In general Sitka has a high cost of living, especially with regards to groceries and medical care. - The average commute for residents of Anchorage is 8.4 minutes longer than it is for residents of Sitka. Yearly, there are about 5,000 earthquakes in Alaska. Pros + Cons of Living in Sitka (Barrow, Hope: for rent, condo, house I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. Your email address will not be published. For most rural residents in Alaska, subsistence hunting is critical to their food security, nutrition, and economic stability. 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 . 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. Keep in mind that these opinions are based merely on my own time here and others may have other experiences. it's cool - pros and cons of anchorage - 9/5/2022 it's nice, i liked it when i grew up there. 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. Daylight is nonexistent in the northernmost regions for months at a time, which creates a physiological shift in disposition and mood. Cons: 1 - cost of living is high. 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. The cons, however, include high gas prices and the cost of living. As of the latest estimates from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Alaska is 731,545. Homes in Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the country. Fly from Los Angeles on Alaska Airlines, Delta, American Airlines and more. You can spend lots of time hiking, fishing, whale watching. If you want to acquire a boat in Sitka, charter boats are another terrific opportunity to check out . The most notable of them is Mt. 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. 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. The estimated population of Alaska is 738,000. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. Alaska has a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities, including over 3 million acres of state park land. However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. If you decide to make your home around Anchorage when you move to Alaska, then the weather will feel somewhat temperate. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. Another reason why Alaskas seafood is so fantastic is the variety. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. You will not find this type of behavior among the residents of Alaska. Sitka Pros And Cons Of Living In Sitka, Alaska, Moving to Sitka, USA There is some truth to this idea that is percolating around the Internet. 9. That means your tax burden is potentially higher than what it would be in some other states. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska - newhomesinbarrie.ca It provides vital nutrients for the body, and it is delicious! 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. But mushing is still an essential part of life for some Alaskans. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). 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. Alaska has sunshine for almost 20 hours a day. 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. It can get extremely cold in Alaska, even during the summer months. 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. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. If you are out hiking, you need to be aware of your surroundings. Visitors and residents can view them between September and late April. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. 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 9 Best Places to Live in Alaska - The Zumper Blog There are many features we have already discussed that draw people to this beautiful state. This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. If you love the chaos and bustling pace of New York, you will go stir crazy in Anchorage or Juneau. 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. 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. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that the vacancy rate for rental units in Alaska is just 4.6%, which is well below the national average of 6.9%. Only California and Hawaii residents will pay more for their fueling needs. 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. The money can be used for anything that I choose, from paying bills to saving for a rainy day. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. Alaska has some of the best air quality in America, 10. This can make fresh fruits and vegetables more expensive and less readily available than in other parts of the country. If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. 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. Many people gather to watch the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race or take dog sled tours while visiting a great way to experience a little history. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. Another negative effect of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on your safety. Many of Alaskas rivers are perfect for whitewater rafting, cruise the coastal waters by boat or take a flightseeing tour of glaciers. The inland Alaskan Arctic, where the skies are clearer, is one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights. The largest employers in Alaska include the state government, the University of Alaska, and the military, as well as companies in the oil and gas industry such as BP and ConocoPhillips. Because not all companies ship products to Alaska, obtaining the items you ordered can be a problem. If you shop strategically, especially with your rewards cards, most of the cost difference can be offset with a little creative budgeting. If you want to work as a freelancer or be self-employed, then you must become a business when you live in the state. Sitka real estate or Sitka rentals. This dividend comes from a permanent fund that is fueled by the oil and gas industry industries. Oh, okay. We have more than 10 years of experience in the civil works industry and we are experts in new house construction, tiles works, earth moving works, architecture works, and compound wall works That is due to the higher cost of transportation and the isolation factor of the state. A Travel Website About Portland and Oregon, Article Overview: Living in Alaska, Moving to Alaska. Living in Sitka Alaska Everyday life in Sitka, Alaska. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. The moist air from the ocean is forced upward by the mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the state. Hunting options include grouse, hare, mountain goat or brown bear, hunting in the rainforest region. In fact, over half of the land in Alaska is protected wilderness, ensuring that these beautiful landscapes will be preserved for generations to come. Meeting start whenever the people involved feel like making them happen. Is Alaska a Good Place to Live? Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska That money applies to every person in your family, including the kids. Smaller places with 1 BD are cheaper but if you have a family, 3BD are $1500/mo and up. 20 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Alaska (Local's Guide) If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska is for you. 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. Moving to Sitka, Alaska : alaska - reddit.com Cordova has a small-town vibe due to its tiny population of fewer than 3,000 people and is only accessible by ferry. Through its established Permanent Fund Dividend Program, Alaska will pay you to move there. You can embrace the life, or you can try to fight the elements. 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. This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. This can be a physically demanding and time-consuming job depending on where you live and how much it snows. The vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. Try Premium; Log In Sign Up. Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. In Alaska, you will find an incredible amount of beauty. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. First of all, Alaska is a state of mountains. Another issue is the lack of available land for development. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that is related to the changing seasons. Beautiful Maltese Dogs Of Hobart Bay, Alaska - Premier Pups The states natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and relatively low cost of living make it an appealing destination for retirees. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. Find flights to Alaska from $177. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. Because food, other than the local food, needs to travel a great distance to get there, the prices are relatively high. After living in the state for a full calendar year, residents will qualify for what is called the PFD payment. Venture to Alaska if you want to see the Aurora Borealis. Much of the land in Alaska is owned by the federal government, and there are strict regulations on how it can be used. Call it a way of life. Alaska is a state which deals with numerous earthquakes each year. For someone who receives one of these dividend checks, its always a welcome boost to the old income. Even the sidewalks can be dangerous after a snowfall. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. 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. If you decide to move in or around Anchorage, the weather may feel somewhat temperate, but you will experience a shorter summer. Pros And Cons Of Living In Alaska, Moving to Alaska, USA, Cost of Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska. In the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. 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. Even when the winter months come around, this attitude doesnt change. 5 Myths About Retiring in Alaska - Alaska Tour Jobs If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. Soon after the ships hull was ruptured, Prince William Sound was filled with oil. The temperatures dropped to a record of minus 80F in 1971 at Prospect Creek Camp. Every winter, thousands of Alaskans suffer from SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder. The median rent for a studio and one-bedroom in Alaska is $17 and $21 cheaper than the national average in 2019. So Alaskans are less snobby then everyone else..? (Top 10 Reasons), Why Is Cancn So Expensive? Alaska puts you face-to-face with wildlife all of the time. 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. There are about 5,000 earthquakes that happen every year in the state of Alaska. Pros + Cons of Living in Sitka (pros and cons, stores, moving to 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. 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. However, others are concerned that a sales tax could be detrimental to the states economy and place an additional burden on residents and businesses. Another thing that contributes to the strong sense of community in Alaska is the fact that many people rely on one another for support in daily life. And the road systems are fine with me, too. There is not the same level of hectic chaos here like there is in most of the rest of the world. Fairbanks, a city known for its vibrant arts and culture scene and access to outdoor activities. Usually, once people settle here, they want to remain. Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. 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. 6. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. Blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, salmonberries can be found on Alaskas hiking trails. People are going to take an individual approach to how they manage their time. That never happened, but it is an interesting part of U.S. history that isnt always taught in history class. On average, Anchorage has over 30 inches of snow, from January to March, with another 30 inches accumulating during November and December combined. The cost of living in Alaska can also be attractive. Sitka has 15 fishing charter companies, while Skagway only has three. Cost of Living in Sitka, Alaska. The violent crime rate of Sitka is 52% lower than national average. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cost of living in Alaska is 29.5% higher than the national average. Chill, Diverse People. The industry also contributed over $2.2 billion in state and local tax revenue (talk about a vice grip). Springwater, without a doubt, is considered the best water to drink. 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. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. Additionally, marijuana businesses are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of schools or other areas where children are present.