The states population is relatively small and sparsely distributed, with much of the population concentrated in the urban centers of Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. This event helped to form the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai National Park. A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. Median home value. ), Why Is Newport Beach So Expensive? Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. 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. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. 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. 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! When determining what cities are good for your personality, life situation, and personal preferences, there are many factors to consider including climate, cost of living, community, job opportunities, population makeup, activities, and things to do. You can get paid to live in Alaska once you qualify. You get an opportunity to embrace a slower pace in life that focuses on individual dreams. The median home prices for homes in Anchorage are $299,000, Fairbanks $222,000, Wasilla $239,000, and $185,000 for Kenai. The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. One of the negative effects of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on mental health. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. The industry also contributed over $2.2 billion in state and local tax revenue (talk about a vice grip). Despite higher-than-average wages, low poverty level, and a sparse population, violent crimes are surprisingly frequent. With the long, dark winters, its not uncommon for roads and sidewalks to be covered in ice and snow, making everyday tasks all the more treacherous. The cost of housing in particular is high in the state, with the average home price in Alaska being nearly twice the national average. When you consider that they receive a yearly sum from the Permanent Fund, living in Alaska is a great way to save money. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. In the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. The state is home to many species of wildlife, including brown bears, moose, and bald eagles. As someone who has lived in Alaska for most of my life I can say there are some amazing things about living in Alaska and some things everyone should know before moving here. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. Alaska was once thought of as a folly. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and lack of crowds, Alaska is a place where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature in a way that is truly special. Alaska is one of only a handful of states that does not have a state income tax. 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. Cost of Living Find Your Best Place Quiz City Compare Climate Top Lists Rankings Schools Find a Place DataEngine Interactive Map. Call it a way of life. They can be triggered by landslides, volcanic eruptions, or earthquakes. In fact, according to the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Alaska has the most state park land per resident of any state in the country, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This can be a difficult adjustment for newcomers living in Alaska. Russia and America completed the purchase agreement in 1867. These symptoms can be especially difficult to cope with in a place like Alaska, where the long winters can make it feel like youre living in a never-ending episode of Game of Thrones (Winter is coming, and it never seems to leave). Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? 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. The worst thing for most people is the dreadful cold. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. For someone who receives one of these dividend checks, its always a welcome boost to the old income. Most accidental deaths are from residents who die while sleeping due to carbon monoxide poisoning from clogged chimneys or faulty heaters. Here are a few of these traditions valued by the residents of the state. There are various communities in the northern half of the state that experience sub-zero temperatures all year long. In addition to lack of houses to own, many Alaskan communities also face a lack of available rental units. Moving to Alaska can be a bit SAD (were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder), 5. This park is famous for its brown bears, which can often be seen fishing for salmon in the parks rivers. Compare Sitka, Alaska Cost of Living vs Anchorage, Alaska Cost of Living: Taxes, Childcare, Groceries, Health. Alaska was ranked the most outdoorsy state in America with 81 percent of the population being involved in outdoor activities. Alaska is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, including over 3,000 glaciers and over 100,000 miles of coastline. Get yours today! This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. At Point Barrow, the sun does not set from May 10 to August 2. Alaska ranks second to Wyoming for the highest rate of suicide in the country. The distinctive demographics in this unique area offer a feeling of pride in the residents. Because of its geographic place on the planet, winter in Alaska is not just cold; it is dark as well. Despite their small size, mosquitoes can be a big problem in Alaska, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and those who live in rural areas. Thanks for the replies! However, it is important to note that marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and there are some restrictions on its use in Alaska. Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. In addition to its incredible landscape, Alaska is also home to many glaciers, including the world famous Mendenhall Glacier. 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. The temperatures dropped to a record of minus 80F in 1971 at Prospect Creek Camp. In fact, Alaska has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country. There are many reasons why Alaska living is amazing. What makes them seem like that? If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska is for you. Many families and young professionals live in Sitka. (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. Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. Those are the only career opportunities that are available. The trails in the city are closed frequently because of bear activity. The highest peak in North America, Mount Denali, is located in Alaska and stands at over 20,000 feet tall. 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. 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. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. 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. Fairbanks has an average temperature in the city during January of 0. Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. 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. It is held in Palmer, Alaska, in the late summer and dates back to 1936. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time Learn More. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. 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%. It can get slightly warmer in February, but it will still average around 13. Coastal towns collect more than $60 million in revenue through the docking fees and other taxes. Every winter, thousands of Alaskans suffer from SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder. Pros and Cons of Charter Fishing. Many of Alaskas rivers are perfect for whitewater rafting, cruise the coastal waters by boat or take a flightseeing tour of glaciers. When determining what cities are good for your personality, life situation, and personal preferences, there are many factors to consider including climate, cost of living, community, job opportunities, population makeup, activities, and things to do. Outdoor activities are literally endless for the adventure-seeking individual. You will find dog sled races, whale festivals and native arts and music festivals. 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. Because of the states remote location, many goods must be shipped in from other parts of the country or even abroad, which can drive up their cost. Loathe darkness, cold weather, rain, and high prices. Reasons not to move to Alaska. The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. The sunsets in Alaska are regarded as the most beautiful on earth. D Sitka Housing Home value is 33% higher than Alaska. There are several positions that help to support the tourism industry in the state as well. It provides vital nutrients for the body, and it is delicious! Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? They are talking snobby by Alaska standards, which would probably translate to an average person anywhere else. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. 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. 1. In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. Additionally, Alaskas coastal location means that it is often hit by storms, which can bring even more precipitation. On average, Anchorage has over 30 inches of snow, from January to March, with another 30 inches accumulating during November and December combined. Fishing is also an option in the states rivers and streams. You have to love it and love the lifestyle to justify staying long term. Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016, Colorado Vs. California (Whats The Difference? Numerous communities in the northern half of the state experience sub-zero temperatures throughout the year. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. Thanks in advance! 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. Copyright © 2023 Embrace Someplace | Privacy Policy | As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Alaska is home to over 100 species of mammals, including brown bears, moose, wolves & over 400 species of birds, including bald eagles and puffins. The cost of living in Alaska is really high. Homes in Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the country. Then there are the Northern Lights that you can see frequently dance across the sky all winter long. 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 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. You heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important then living in Alaska just got easier. Alaska is a state which deals with numerous earthquakes each year. Because Alaska does not have an income tax, the state earns its revenues through a tax burden placed on businesses. Yearly, there are about 5,000 earthquakes in Alaska. Alaska Will Pay You to Move There 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. 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. 7. One common misconception about SAD is that it only affects people who live in cold climates. This can make it difficult to access basic services and amenities, such as medical care and grocery stores. 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. Sitka real estate or Sitka rentals. Eskimo ice cream is a native dish made with whipped fat from the hunted animals such as reindeer, bears, seals, combined with snow and wild berries. There are about 5,000 earthquakes that happen every year in the state of Alaska. Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska according to Data Do you live in Sitka, Alaska? One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. 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. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). Because of the risk of contamination and sickness, prepare to filter or treat the water if necessary. Revathi Constructions is a Leading Construction Company in Trichy. This expense is one of the most significant costs that you will face as a household if you decide to move here. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. Many families can still save money because of how taxes are structured here. That makes it the third-highest state for average prices in this area. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. Your email address will not be published. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. Oh you adventure seeker you With its rugged wilderness, stunning natural beauty, and endless opportunities for outdoor exploration, Alaska is the perfect place to let your adventurous spirit run wild. 5. The rest of the state is largely rural and sparsely populated. pros and cons of living in sitka alaskaswiffer commercial actress 2020. junio 1, 2022 . Visitors to the park can take guided tours or explore on their own to see the parks incredible wildlife. Alaska is a good place to live for folks who appreciate the stunning natural beauty and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, and are alright with a high cost of living and challenging weather. 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. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that is related to the changing seasons. Please share your experience here: When we get comments from people on Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska, we publish them here. This study also included collective feelings of financial security, community pride, and good health. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Alaska has the highest cost of living of any state in the United States. Many mountain ranges, Mt Denali (tallest mountain in North America), about 100,000 glaciers, nice summers with lots of daylight. Moving to Alaska might not be quite your speed. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. Skagway is heavily focused on history, with plaques, tours, and museums (several of which are free) all around the town. 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 biggest problem, however, is accessibility. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. For most rural residents in Alaska, subsistence hunting is critical to their food security, nutrition, and economic stability. There isnt an argument to make for any other location. Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. In Alaska, you will find an incredible amount of beauty. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. To maximize your chances of seeing them, Prudhoe Bay and Barrow in the extreme north or the remote northern villages of Coldfoot in the Yukon Territory offer the best possibility of viewing the Lights. For example, it is illegal to consume marijuana in public, and it is illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana. That makes it a paradise for those who love to go hunting and fishing.