In 2014, Alaska voters approved Ballot Measure 2, which legalized the possession, use, and sale of marijuana for recreational purposes for adults over the age of 21. 4. 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. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. In the summer, the days are long and the wildflowers are in bloom, creating a colorful tapestry across the landscape. If you want to acquire a boat in Sitka, charter boats are another terrific opportunity to check out . Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. 6. Sitka cost of living is 116.6. 5. Watching these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. Pros And Cons Of Living In Alaska 2023 - Ablison The cost of housing in particular is high in the state, with the average home price in Alaska being nearly twice the national average. The vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. There is not a state income tax that is withheld from your paycheck. Its no secret that Alaska has some of the most ferocious mosquitoes in the world, with a species called the Alaska mosquito that is known for its aggressive biting habits. Thanks in advance! A high school education is a basic prerequisite for most . That means you are going to be struggling with about the same number of days with snow each year. Hike through Denali National Park or cruise the Seward Highway. While Alaska has diverse geographical regions with different climates, Alaska is known for its long nights and winters no matter where you go. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. This becomes obvious if you have a family emergency happening outside the state. Search for Alaska flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. That makes it a paradise for those who love to go hunting and fishing. One reason is the states location near the ocean. The expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. Moving to Alaska can be a bit SAD (were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder), 5. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK Change Cities Highlights - The Median Age in Anchorage is 5.9 years younger than in Sitka. pros and cons of living in sitka alaska - mamafengshui.com.au Except for areas where there is a concentration of wood-burning for home heating, the air quality is the freshest in the world. In 2019, the timber industry in Alaska generated over $935 million in economic activity, supporting over 5,500 jobs. You will not find this type of behavior among the residents of Alaska. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. Living in Alaska pays dividends, literally, 8. This can be a physically demanding and time-consuming job depending on where you live and how much it snows. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. Additionally, the tourism industry is a major contributor to the states economy, with many visitors coming to Alaska to see its natural beauty and participate in outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting. As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska You may receive another 30 inches during the months of November and December combined. Darkness here can be a real challenge. 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. Looking to move to Alaska to save on taxes? 10. Those who move here will either stress out because they feel like no one is being responsible, or they will take a deep breath and embrace the relaxed attitude. 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. Smaller places with 1 BD are cheaper but if you have a family, 3BD are $1500/mo and up. It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. Commercial fishing is another occupation that many households practice in the state. Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 1,700 species of plants and animals. Juneau, the state capital and a popular destination for its historic downtown and nearby outdoor attractions. Reasons not to move to Alaska. Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. 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. 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. Maltese Dog Pictures . The cold really becomes a problem if you move farther north. Those are the only career opportunities that are available. 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. Alaskas nearness to the Arctic Circle means that day hours vary in intensity and length. Population 8,518 View Nearby Homes Alaska Real Estate Median Home Value $367,800 National $244,900 The sunsets in Alaska are regarded as the most beautiful on earth. Alaska has the best summers in the world. ZIPS IN SITKA, ALASKA 99835 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. Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. The cost of living in Alaska is really high. Airborne pollutants are monitored and regulated, but infractions are common with financial penalties. Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. If you shop strategically, especially with your rewards cards, most of the cost difference can be offset with a little creative budgeting. 2023 Compare Cities Job Market: Parkersburg, WV vs Lafayette, IN 20 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Alaska (Local's Guide) Youll experience a shorter summer, but it wont be a jarring difference. This is a favorable statistic, as the national average is $1,450. That never happened, but it is an interesting part of U.S. history that isnt always taught in history class. But what made it more notable was the pristine setting where it took place. 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. People who live in Alaska are called Alaskans. You can spend lots of time hiking, fishing, whale watching. This is due in part to the states remote location, which makes it difficult to access certain goods and services. Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. In recent years, there have been efforts to reconsider the lack of a state sales tax in Alaska. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. 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 choose to buy a home, know that some cities exempt seniors from part of their property tax. Depending on where you live, and how much snow comes in the season, you could find this process to be physically demanding and time-consuming. Mountain View in Anchorage is rated one of the most diverse places to live in the United States. 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. Yes, Alaska is generally considered to be a very tax-friendly state for residents. The estimated population of Alaska is 738,000. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. 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. Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska according to Data Do you live in Sitka, Alaska? 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. This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. As symptoms become more severe, suicide can result. What many people do not realize is that Japan actually occupied two Alaskan islands during World War II for 15 months. Hunting options include grouse, hare, mountain goat or brown bear, hunting in the rainforest region. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska Pros And Cons Of Living In Alaska, Moving to Alaska, USA, Cost of While Alaska has many incredible natural wonders, they are not always easy to get to. Despite their small size, mosquitoes can be a big problem in Alaska, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and those who live in rural areas. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. Because food, other than the local food, needs to travel a great distance to get there, the prices are relatively high. The fair is nearly two weeks long and is Alaskas largest annual event. PRO: Lots of wild animals. If long (and were talking looonnnggg) periods of darkness are challenging for you then moving to Alaska may not be your cup of tea. Because there are fewer consumers in the state, businesses may have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs and remain profitable. Our cost of living indices are based on a US average of 100. 8. 3. 09-28-2015, 02:38 PM rntim Location: sitka, Alaska 279 posts, read 362,335 times Reputation: 381 I live in Sitka. Thanks for the replies! Find flights to Alaska from $177. The payment in 2017 was $1,100 per person. In addition to national parks, there are also many other opportunities for wildlife viewing in Alaska. The majority of people in the state are homeowners, however. when it's sunny Cons: EXPENSIVE Seems quite snobby Limited trail system and getting above treeline is a haul Rain, rain, lots and lots of rain And all the other stuff that goes with being off the road system in AK, good and bad. There are also initiatives to support the development of greenhouses and other methods of growing produce in the state. Because it is a lot colder in Alaska than in other states, your heating costs during the winter are going to be significantly higher. Another one of the major challenges of living in Alaska is the high cost of goods. 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. The worst thing for most people is the dreadful cold. Terrific information. Alaska receives no attention from authors and artists. This can be a difficult adjustment for newcomers living in Alaska. Mushing is a sport or mode of transportation powered by dogs. Usually, once people settle here, they want to remain. The trails in the city are closed frequently because of bear activity. 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. Visitors to the park can take guided tours or explore on their own to see the parks incredible wildlife. If you are out hiking, you need to be aware of your surroundings. Alaska Will Pay You to Move There 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 . Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016, Colorado Vs. California (Whats The Difference? Fairbanks has an average temperature in the city during January of 0. Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Native American, Russian, and American influences. The frost-free growing season in Alaska lasts for about 100 days. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. Despite these challenges, there are efforts underway to improve access to fresh produce in Alaska. Pros: Nice, quiet small town Good controls on development; no big box stores or too many chain stores, etc Beautiful esp. The industry also contributed over $2.2 billion in state and local tax revenue (talk about a vice grip). 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. For those who live outside of this metroplex, the only option tends to be heating oil, which is much more expensive. You will find dog sled races, whale festivals and native arts and music festivals. The overall crime rate in Sitka, Alaska is 8% lower than national average. Pros And Cons Of Living In Sitka, Alaska, Moving to Sitka, USA, Cost of 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. Another reason why Alaskas seafood is so fantastic is the variety. 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. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. If you are not a household that was living paycheck to paycheck, then this potential disadvantage does not apply to you. Many mountain ranges, Mt Denali (tallest mountain in North America), about 100,000 glaciers, nice summers with lots of daylight. An amount below 100 means Sitka is cheaper than the US average. Find the best and worst places to live, raise a family or retire in Alaska. It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. The low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. There is not the same level of hectic chaos here like there is in most of the rest of the world. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska - newhomesinbarrie.ca The state of Alaska does not have a state sales tax. 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 Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? Posted by: Category: Uncategorized . 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. Most people find that the rewards far outweigh whatever sacrifices they may need to make. For example, some communities have established local farmers markets or community gardens where residents can purchase locally-grown produce. The median listing home price per square foot was $202. These activities are taken to the next level when you move to this state. The high cost of living in Alaska can be a challenge for many people, particularly for those on fixed incomes or low salaries. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. With its spectacular beauty, many recreational opportunities, and plentiful wildlife, there is an adventure at every turn in Americas last frontier. Residents are not required to pay either income tax or sales tax. This dividend comes from a permanent fund that is fueled by the oil and gas industry industries. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 40% of Alaskas population lives in rural areas that are considered frontier or remote.. Once you live here for a year or two, it is not unusual to encounter someone youve never met, but they already feel like they know you. Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska. Pros and Cons of Living in Idaho Alaska's social life consists of activities and events very particular to their culture. 1. If you love the chaos and bustling pace of New York, you will go stir crazy in Anchorage or Juneau. The pros: pretty low crime rate (although it's growing more and more every year . 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. Cheap Flights from Los Angeles to Alaska from $177 - KAYAK If youre thinking of moving to Alaska, its important to be prepared for rain lots of it. There are times when the weather and the costs of living here will be challenging. 2. 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. There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. If you are thinking about moving to Alaska then prepare to combat SAD. 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. The median values are higher for some of the bigger cities, with Anchorage and Juneau standing at $303,601 and $364,295, respectively. Median home value. A buddy of mine brought Sitka gear to Kodiak last fall. Activities that take place outside become a part of who you are. 5 Myths About Retiring in Alaska - Alaska Tour Jobs Thank you for taking the time to post this. One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. It ranks fifth for the lowest sales tax in the country but first in overall tax burden for companies. Pros and Cons of Charter Fishing - Action Alaska Sportfishing According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. 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. Very interesting info!Perfect just what I was looking for! 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. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. $1,019 7% higher than the US average. The median rent for a studio and one-bedroom in Alaska is $17 and $21 cheaper than the national average in 2019. Because Alaska is the least densely populated of the United States, you can unwind and relax in complete silence if you choose. The highest peak in North America, Mount Denali, is located in Alaska and stands at over 20,000 feet tall. When you consider that they receive a yearly sum from the Permanent Fund, living in Alaska is a great way to save money. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. In other words, its the Arctic Circle of flavor. One common misconception about SAD is that it only affects people who live in cold climates. There are numerous job opportunities available in Alaska right now. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska In March of that year, Prince William Sound experienced a magnitude 9.2 earthquake. From the traditional hunting and fishing activities of the indigenous peoples to the states thriving outdoor recreation industry, which generates over $2 billion in annual economic activity, the connection to the land is a defining feature of Alaskan culture. McKinley. Moose and caribou are abundant throughout Alaska. Salmon fixed any way is a staple; also, reindeer dogs, halibut, crab, sourdough bread, and oysters are among the favorites. Cost of Living Find Your Best Place Quiz City Compare Climate Top Lists Rankings Schools Find a Place DataEngine Interactive Map. The entire state of Alaska has a laid-back feel. It is really easy to start a business after you move to Alaska. 25 Pros of Living in Alaska There are many reasons why Alaska living is amazing. Compare that with a median price of $1,596 in California and $1,150 in Florida. The suns view so far north is unbelievable. The temperatures dropped to a record of minus 80F in 1971 at Prospect Creek Camp. Even the sidewalks can be dangerous after a snowfall. Alaskas economy is largely based on resource extraction, such as fishing, mining, and oil drilling. 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. You heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important then living in Alaska just got easier. Cities Near Sitka: Port Alexander, Tenakee Springs, Prince of Wales census subarea, Hoonah-Angoon census subarea, Angoon When Alaska was first established as a state in 1959, its economy was primarily based on fishing, mining, and other extractive industries. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. 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. 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. 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 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. Even with strict regulations and watchdog groups, cruise ships still pollute the pristine waters they travel through. The military base nearby and international immigration has created a cultural melting pot in the area. 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. Another issue is the lack of available land for development. Living in Alaska Pros and Cons Pros You will experience the great outdoors in Alaska in a way that you never have before. As of the latest estimates from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Alaska is 731,545. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). If you want to work as a freelancer or be self-employed, then you must become a business when you live in the state. The state is home to many species of wildlife, including brown bears, moose, and bald eagles. The state earns its revenues through a tax burden on businesses, as Alaska does not have an income tax. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary in Alaska was $77,060 in 2021. Chill, Diverse People. Highways are paved in most areas, and the amount of traffic poses no problems for commuters. With strict regulations on pollution and development, as well as a strong focus on conservation and sustainable resource management, Alaska takes its role as a steward of the environment very seriously. The city of Ketchikan, in particular, is known for its high levels of rainfall, with an average of over 150 inches per year. This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. 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. Moving to Alaska might not be quite your speed. Pro's and Con's of living in Alaska. Are you happy living - reddit 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.