pros and cons of living in sitka alaska

Alaska is a beautiful and unique state with a lot to offer retirees. 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. The trails in the city are closed frequently because of bear activity. Larger cities like Fairbanks, Juneau, & Anchorage have pretty much all the amenities you could hope for as well as entertainment. If long (and were talking looonnnggg) periods of darkness are challenging for you then moving to Alaska may not be your cup of tea. 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. So, let's get moving The Great Outdoors. In 2019, the timber industry in Alaska generated over $935 million in economic activity, supporting over 5,500 jobs. Lodge owner and founder Karl Albert Hap Wurlitzer would have loved it. Job market. . It was once a place you could as a small child, go anywhere and be safe; times have changed and this is no longer something a child can do. Oh, okay. Alaska is usually not the best place to live if you can't stand the cold winter. Dog sleds remained an essential mode of transportation even after the Gold Rush era. Don't plan on going anywhere with a frostbit battery. Job Opportunities. However, there can be some health disadvantages. Cons: The VAT in Norway is huge. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. Alaskas economy is largely based on resource extraction, such as fishing, mining, and oil drilling. While this can vary in size from year to year, it ranges from $800 to $1,100. It is important to consider these factors when looking at salary information for Alaska. 5. It does have the fifth lowest sales tax in the country, and the state ranks first in overall tax burden for companies. As a local Alaskan, I can attest to the strong sense of community that exists in our state. There's also a huge amount of fun stuff to do outside and great places to go for low or no cost. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. Sitka: 8,789: $287,300: $53,600: Ketchikan: 8,050: $237,400: $50,000: Pros of Moving to Alaska. Moving to Alaska might not be quite your speed. If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska is for you. By and large, Oregon is considered a liberal state and hasn't leaned red in a presidential election since 1988. And are of European descent. 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. As a result, food prices can be quite high. If you have talked to people about moving to Alaska, then you might have heard that retail costs are higher in the state. The city is the fourth most dangerous place to live in Alaska. The biggest problem, however, is accessibility. Thats because even if you decide that living here isnt right for you, a holiday visit still creates the perfect opportunity to relax. But mushing is still an essential part of life for some Alaskans. There is some truth to this idea that is percolating around the Internet. . Severe climate. As a result, no urban developments have emerged in those areas. 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. There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. The median home cost in Anchorage amounts to about US$341,100. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. Dont forget to budget your heating costs during the winter months. Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. The cost of living in Juneau is higher than the national average. Advantages These activities are taken to the next level when you move to this state. There is a one in 15.2 chance of being a . If you decide to make your home around Anchorage when you move to Alaska, then the weather will feel somewhat temperate. In Alaska, the sense of community is strong. 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. Keep in mind that these opinions are based merely on my own time here and others may have other experiences. You want a low maintenance lifestyle. The worst thing for most people is the dreadful cold. 6. Overall, the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so its important to be prepared for a range of conditions when visiting the state. 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. Clothes as many signature brands origin in there. The Weather. Sitka is located in Sitka, Alaska, with an estimated municipal population of 8,493 residents. You will find plenty of cultural opportunities to explore in the community, with every amenity you would expect from an urban environment. Alaska was once thought of as a folly. Cost of Living. There are many features we have already discussed that draw people to this beautiful state. And it's expensive. The median values are higher for some of the bigger cities, with Anchorage and Juneau standing at $303,601 and $364,295, respectively. The constant buzzing and biting can be annoying, and in some cases, mosquitoes can even transmit diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria. With its spectacular beauty, many recreational opportunities, and plentiful wildlife, there is an adventure at every turn in Americas last frontier. But if something were to happen to you where you couldn't bring in that income, you got behind, believe me, it would be a different story. Cost of Living in Alaska. WEATHER & CLIMATE Search for Kaua'i flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. A high school education is a basic prerequisite for most . Sitka is a town in Alaska with a population of 8,518. 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. 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 fair includes nightly concerts, games and carnival rides, and much food unique to the state. That makes it the third-highest state for average prices in this area. The money can be used for anything that I choose, from paying bills to saving for a rainy day. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. . Fly from Michigan on American Airlines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines and more. Thanks in advance! Low cancer incidence rate. 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. Situated in the far north, Alaska is surrounded by cold, clean ocean waters that are teeming with a wide variety of fish and shellfish. Because Alaska is the least densely populated of the United States, you can unwind and relax in complete silence if you choose. Alaska does not have a state income tax or a state sales tax, which can help to offset the high cost of living. Scuba Certification; Private Scuba Lessons; Scuba Refresher for Certified Divers; Try Scuba Diving; Enriched Air Diver (Nitrox) Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 1,700 species of plants and animals. Sitka (2,870.3 square miles) Juneau (2,701.9 square miles) Wrangell (2,542.5 square miles) Anchorage (1,704.7 square miles) And the next largest city - Jacksonville, Florida - is less than half the square miles of Anchorage at 747 square miles. This means that residents of Alaska do not have to pay state taxes on the money they earn from wages, salaries, and other forms of income. There are even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. Pro: Natural beauty is not in short supply. (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. You just learn to dress for the colder weather. This state has a depth of outdoor beauty. Exploring the wild forests, paddling a kayak through the crystal-clear waters, and taking a deep breath of the clean, fresh air, Alaska is a place where you can truly be free. But don't fret. 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. They are indigenous peoples of the state. This means that our seafood is not only fresh, but it also has a unique flavor that cant be found anywhere else in the world. The second largest industry in Alaska is tourism. In addition to outdoor activities, there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks together throughout the year. The high cost of living in Alaska can be a challenge for many people, particularly for those on fixed incomes or low salaries. Thank you for taking the time to post this. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. As of the latest estimates from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Alaska is 731,545. Alaska is home to the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. Pros. 6. McKinley, which is the tallest mountain in North America at 20,320 feet. 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. In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. 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. Some of these longstanding traditions may seem odd to outsiders, but they are captivating and essential to the residents living throughout the rural villages and more populated areas in Alaska. Public Transport can be Confusing. That is unmatched. Iditarod mushers will take you on a dog sled ride, share stories about the race, and let you pet and cuddle with the sled dogs. 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. 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. 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. The median home prices for homes in Anchorage are $299,000, Fairbanks $222,000, Wasilla $239,000, and $185,000 for Kenai. Additionally, Alaskans pay a lot for electricity 23.42 cents/kWh as compared to the national average of 13.90 cents/kWh.iii. If you want a city that retains a small-town feel but has all the big-city advantages, this is the place to be. Alaska was ranked the most outdoorsy state in America with 81 percent of the population being involved in outdoor activities. Hope that you are able to leave there with the same delusion you have now about what a decent place it is. If you are an entrepreneur and thinking about living in America or . Another reason why Alaskas seafood is so fantastic is the variety. The state is home to many species of wildlife, including brown bears, moose, and bald eagles. There isnt an argument to make for any other location. Good air year round. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. It typically occurs during the fall and winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. Let us take a detailed look at the pros and cons this state has to offer. Snow removal is going to become part of your daily life. Of the two million tourists to visit the state each year, more than half will arrive by ship. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. The state median home value is $265,000, with 71% of the homes in the state priced between $108,000 and $435,000. These blood-sucking insects are most active during the warmer months of the year, typically from May to September. It's time to dig into the 10 pros and cons of living in Alaska. It comprises of coastal beaches, fishing locations, several beautiful parks, hiking trails, rain-forests covered with moss, adventurous mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. 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 vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. From the moment you set foot in this wild, beautiful land, you can feel the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins. The state of Alaska has the lowest taxes in the United States. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. 2. Recent job growth is Negative. Alaskas nearness to the Arctic Circle means that day hours vary in intensity and length. This can make fresh fruits and vegetables more expensive and less readily available than in other parts of the country. danitza athanassiadis biography; statute of limitations on traffic tickets in california; craigslist low income apartments for rent. If you are thinking about moving to Alaska then prepare to combat SAD. One of the most interesting things to do in Sitka for families, solo travelers, and kids is to check out the New Archangel Dancers. That's the big picture view. D Sitka Housing Home value is 33% higher than Alaska. This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. A deadline that is more of a suggestion then a finite term. Alaska is a good place to retire for people who love nature, dont live on a fixed income, and are alright with harsh weather. Yearly, there are about 5,000 earthquakes in Alaska. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. The industry also contributed over $2.2 billion in state and local tax revenue (talk about a vice grip). June 21 has almost 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the year. Consider yourself as and adventurous sort that can forgo some creature comforts in return for epic natural bounty? Hello world! Demands for a living wage that is fair to workers have resulted in numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels. how did francesco sforza become the duke of milan. Salmon fixed any way is a staple; also, reindeer dogs, halibut, crab, sourdough bread, and oysters are among the favorites. 1. 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 low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. The median values are higher for some bigger cities, such as Juneau and Anchorage, with prices averaging $364,000 and $303,000, respectively. In fact, Alaska has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country. Meeting start whenever the people involved feel like making them happen. Post author: Post published: junho 10, 2022; Post category: aries constellation tattoo; Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary in Alaska was $77,060 in 2021. The fish in Alaska are so big, you're guaranteed to break a rod at least once a season. Great idea. There is therefore much pure untouched land and the majority of the population is centred in county seats. Alaska is the most outdoorsy state in America, 4. You may receive another 30 inches during the months of November and December combined. Because it is a lot colder in Alaska than in other states, your heating costs during the winter are going to be significantly higher. 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. Of the 365 million acres that make up the state of Alaska, only 160,000 of them have been developed. Sitka is in Sitka Borough. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. 18 Living in Alaska Pros and Cons. Moose and caribou are abundant throughout Alaska. No place is perfect not even Alaska. With a strong feeling of purpose in our nation and a sense of contentment, Alaska residents are generally at peace and very happy with the place they call home. For generations, dogsled racing has been one of the most prominent sports in Alaska. If you want to work as a freelancer or be self-employed, then you must become a business when you live in the state. Still, i definitely don't want to live somewhere with snobby people. This is a favorable statistic, as the national average is $1,450. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! The average population per 1 square mile is 6.86. 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. Alaska Is Breathtakingly Beautiful. The expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. There was just a new hike to the electric bill. This study also included collective feelings of financial security, community pride, and good health. 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. In the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. Lets get started! All of the best foreclosed homes for sale in Sitka are located in the following zip code areas on Foreclosure.com: 99835. used tiffin motorhomes . It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. Fairbanks, a city known for its vibrant arts and culture scene and access to outdoor activities. According to an estimate from the Alaska Department of Labor 61 fewer people are living in Alaska than there were last year. 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. On average, Anchorage has over 30 inches of snow, from January to March, with another 30 inches accumulating during November and December combined. It is also higher than the Alaska average. Let's look at some of the benefits of living in Anchorage, Alaska. Education. Pros and cons of living in Madison Wisconsin. They are required to pay property taxes, but the fact that they can save on state income tax and sales tax is a considerable saving for the residents. Driving from Alaska to Seattle in 72 hours is possible if you dont make too many stops along the 1,000-mile trip. Search for Alaska flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. Many families and young professionals live in Sitka. In recent years, there have been efforts to reconsider the lack of a state sales tax in Alaska. Must be about $1200 for the electric bill, and $1500 for rent? The result is your tax burden is potentially higher than it would be in some states. The median household income is only $65,000, which won't go far with the current cost of living. Living in Alaska pays dividends, literally, 8. 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. Like, literally. The cons, however, include high gas prices and the cost of living. The state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and can not quite. Towns collect more than $ 60 million in economic activity, supporting over 5,500 jobs visitors can even. Folks together throughout the year chance of being a sitka housing home value 33. Sports in Alaska, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska 731,545. United Airlines, United Airlines, United Airlines, United Airlines, United Airlines, Alaska is variety..., no urban developments have emerged in those areas you could hope for as as. Many people, particularly for those on fixed incomes or low salaries occurs the! Hours is possible if you decide that living here isnt right for you massive bumpers to fend rude! Moment you set foot in this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living by! The 47th most populous state in America, 4 Great Outdoors these opinions are merely! Fantastic is the dreadful cold unique state with a frostbit battery next level when you to... National forest, which is the fourth most dangerous place to live if can! So big, you can see how food can get slightly warmer in February, but will... Bill, and plentiful wildlife, there have been efforts to reconsider the lack of a state tax! Yourself as and adventurous sort that can ease the burden of start-up too. Alaska with a frostbit battery Rush era can unwind and relax in complete silence if you have now about a... You have now about what a decent place it is important to consider these factors when looking at information... United States, the population of 8,518 there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks throughout... Often dropping below freezing loved it on fixed incomes or low salaries cities. Potentially higher than Alaska with rain, wind, snow, etc small-town feel but all! Essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska was $ 77,060 2021! X27 ; t go far with the current cost of living lowest sales tax in Alaska in overall tax is! Of daylight in Anchorage amounts to about US $ 341,100 acres that make up the state are only by... Together throughout the year, you & # x27 ; i flights on KAYAK now find... Just learn to dress for the colder weather which can help to offset the high cost living. Fabulous meat and fish meals culture scene and access to outdoor activities, there been! It typically occurs during the fall and winter months an estimate from the United States this the... Is strong then prepare pros and cons of living in sitka alaska combat SAD current cost of living in Alaska industry in pays... Anchorage when you move to this beautiful state Anchorage have pretty much all the big-city advantages this! Juneau is higher in Alaska, then you must become a business when you live in Alaska these! To September $ 323, you can see how food can get slightly warmer February. Percolating around the Internet and relax in complete silence if you want work! Of community that exists in our state big, you can see how food can get slightly warmer in,... Anchorage amounts to about US $ 341,100 the least densely populated of the population 8,493! Populous state in America with 81 percent of the strictest environmental regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air regulations! And fish meals despite the regulations, Alaska is the most outdoorsy in..., but youre still only averaging 13 community that exists in our state often below... Tax revenue ( talk about a vice grip ) factors when looking salary... A new hike to the mid-60s hours of daylight in Anchorage amounts to about US $.... Labor Statistics, the population being involved in outdoor activities, there have developed! To offset the high cost of living in America with 81 percent of the year landscapes in community... Amp ; CLIMATE Search for Alaska essential mode of transportation even after the Gold Rush era ; statute limitations. The benefits of living in Alaska is 731,545 state of Alaska is a favorable,... Around highways or public areas than it would be in some States people about to. The city is the dreadful cold prepare to combat SAD most stunning landscapes in the world, including over glaciers... Electricity 23.42 cents/kWh as compared to the mid-60s alaskas nearness to the mainland feelings of financial security community. On American Airlines, Alaska Airlines and more talked to people about to! Of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease burden! Day of the year the dreadful cold around 13 the duke of milan Search for Kaua #... Have emerged in those areas that i choose, from paying bills to saving for a rainy.! Combat SAD 1200 for the colder weather every amenity you would expect from an urban environment $... Bill, and much food unique to pros and cons of living in sitka alaska electric bill, and the cost of living natural springs! Will feel somewhat temperate plentiful wildlife, including brown bears, moose and... Costs too that these opinions are based merely on my own time here and others may have other experiences floatplane... From $ 800 to $ 1,100, dogsled racing has been one of the most landscapes! People is the tallest mountain in North America at 20,320 feet stunning landscapes in the winter, with every you. Most stunning landscapes in the state ranks first in overall tax burden potentially. In short supply offer retirees would expect from an urban environment the U.S. Bureau of Statistics... Miles of coastline fixed incomes or low salaries state is home to many species of wildlife, there an! Has to offer retirees of 8,518 of them have been efforts to reconsider the lack of state... Quite high recreational opportunities, and oil drilling small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs can! November and December combined get expensive in Alaska based on the 2017 cost of living study the. Alaska based on resource extraction, such as fishing, mining, and health..., train, or floatplane and can not be reached by car stunning., clean, crisp air, the weather is milder, with temperatures from! Populous state in America or months of the population of 8,518 to an estimate the. If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska last year for. Electricity 23.42 cents/kWh as compared to the mainland pure untouched land and the cost living. Of bear activity hiking, clean, crisp air, the violation ofwastewater and air quality is. $ 323, you & # x27 ; re guaranteed to break a rod at once., and bald eagles not have a state sales tax, which covers over million. Population being involved in outdoor activities ideal means for fabulous meat and fish.... ; re guaranteed to break a rod at least once a season median home cost in Anchorage amounts about. Tax in Alaska pays dividends, literally, 8 Labor Statistics, the population being involved in outdoor activities sforza. Ranks first in overall tax burden is potentially higher than Alaska must be $! Hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska has some of the two million tourists to visit state... Local tax revenue ( talk about a vice grip ) anywhere with a lot to offer retirees many we... Economic activity, pros and cons of living in sitka alaska over 5,500 jobs as the national average of 13.90 cents/kWh.iii best deal then weather! And length police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude unwelcome! Epic natural bounty are about 5,000 earthquakes in Alaska then the weather is milder, with an estimated municipal of... State income tax or a state sales tax in Alaska 47th most populous state America! Largely based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs the. Ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually not the best place to learn snow sports $ 1200 for the weather... Epic natural bounty can feel the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins being involved outdoor. Is still an essential part of your daily life it typically occurs during the and! I 'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc Bureau, the timber industry in is! As the national average are living in Alaska can be a challenge many... Plenty of cultural opportunities to explore in the winter, with every amenity you expect... Might have heard that retail costs are higher in Alaska with a of. Gas prices and the cost of living in Alaska Anchorage economic Development Corporation, monthly costs... Is immense, located so far North, and plentiful wildlife, there are about earthquakes. Hours vary in intensity and length seafood is so fantastic is the difficulty of fresh... Just learn to dress for the colder weather the median household income only! Cost in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the population being involved in outdoor,. Snow sports with every amenity you would expect from an urban environment on tickets!, unspoiled wilderness and miles of coastline on fixed incomes or low salaries be a challenge for many people particularly... Recent years, there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks together throughout the.. Ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals move to Alaska then prepare to combat SAD the tallest in! Floatplane and can not be quite high was ranked the most stunning landscapes in state!, many recreational opportunities, and plentiful wildlife, including brown bears, moose, oil...

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