1. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. Well, considering the fact that I've only lived here for 10 months and most of tha. It is also higher than the Alaska average. It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. This is higher than the national median salary, which was $45,790 during the same time period. Visitors to the park can take guided tours or explore on their own to see the parks incredible wildlife. On the other hand, the median household income is reasonable, and the schools in the area are decent. The biggest problem, however, is accessibility. That is true because of the added transportation costs to move goods that far north. 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. For most rural residents in Alaska, subsistence hunting is critical to their food security, nutrition, and economic stability. List of the Pros of Living in Arkansas. Soon after the ships hull was ruptured, Prince William Sound was filled with oil. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Alaska has the highest cost of living of any state in the United States. While Alaska has diverse geographical regions with different climates, Alaska is known for its long nights and winters no matter where you go. The Pros & Cons of Living in Ashland vs. Bend, The following errors occurred with your submission. Education. 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. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. Residents of urban areas may struggle with their mental health. However, depending on where you're moving from, Anchorage might offer a lower cost of living. You enjoy living close to other people and don't mind occasional elevator small talk. In rural areas, for example, people often rely on their neighbors for help with things like shoveling snow or carpooling. Compared to other locations in the country, even the southern locations of Alaska have more snowfall. There are several opportunities to pursue your sport of choice during the summer as well. Another issue is the lack of available land for development. This event helped to form the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai National Park. If long (and were talking looonnnggg) periods of darkness are challenging for you then moving to Alaska may not be your cup of tea. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. That said, a larger majority of people living in Indiana are white. Another thing that makes Alaska so incredible is the sense of freedom that you feel here. This event caused the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai Park. Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. The rest were scum. Yearly, there are about 5,000 earthquakes in Alaska. In general, Juneau is one-third more expensive than the average American city. There are various communities in the northern half of the state that experience sub-zero temperatures all year long. That is due to the higher cost of transportation and the isolation factor of the state. Alaska was once thought of as a folly. In fact, according to a survey conducted by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, nearly 75% of Alaska residents say that they know their neighbors well and feel a strong sense of community in their neighborhood. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. Wasilla. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. It is important to note that costs are higher in Alaska because of transportation and its isolation. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. In addition to those incentives, residents of Anchorage also enjoy having zero dollars in state income tax deducted from their checks. It ranks fifth for the lowest sales tax in the country but first in overall tax burden for companies. Call it a way of life. This is a favorable statistic, as the national average is $1,450. Have you ever heard about the rumor that the government will pay you to live in Alaska? Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. The city is the fourth most dangerous place to live in Alaska. Alaska has a very diverse climate, with temperatures and weather patterns varying widely depending on where you are in the state. The state of Alaska has the lowest taxes in the United States. Many families and young professionals live in Sitka. The lack of light is due to its far northern location, and that also means it gets very cold: 3. 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. About Us; Staff; Camps; Scuba. One of the things that makes Alaskas seafood so amazing is its location. Alaska is a beautiful and unique state with a lot to offer retirees. If you want to work as a freelancer or be self-employed, then you must become a business when you live in the state. Lets get started! Home. 5. Alaska has sunshine for almost 20 hours a day. Alaska will never rank high from a culinary perspective, but there are a few quality meals to be found. These people are defined by their language groups and are considered Alaskan Natives. You will Master Snow Sports. In fact, you can compare it with any of the most beautiful spots in the world because of its uniqueness and beauty. It is really easy to start a business after you move to Alaska. Additionally, marijuana businesses are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of schools or other areas where children are present. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. It is thought that the Inuit invented dog sleds to transport supplies and food to their people. Alaska is a vast and very remote state with many communities being extremely isolated from the rest of the country. As a result, no urban developments have emerged in those areas. what was necessary before the mariner could be restored to life again +91 88380 06318 To cope, some turn to overeating, alcohol, drugs, or extended periods of sleep. More Cost of Living or Compare Sitka's Cost of Living. In addition to its incredible landscape, Alaska is also home to many glaciers, including the world famous Mendenhall Glacier. 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. Downtown Juneau gets 94" of rain a year, Ketchikan receives 154", Sitka is something like 82". (The Sound is Better)Somebody asked me, what it was like living in Alaska? 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. I lived in Juneau for three years and three months--1983-1986 and HATED it! You don't have a lot of stuff to store. Pros and cons of living in Madison Wisconsin., Madison, 18 replies Pros/cons living in or around Denver, Colorado, 11 replies Sitka va Ketchikan Living, Alaska, 11 replies Sitka Living?, Alaska, 24 replies The Pros & Cons of Living in Ashland vs. Bend, Oregon, 28 replies There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. Pros and cons of living in Madison Wisconsin. 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. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. Activities that take place outside become a part of who you are. Springwater, without a doubt, is considered the best water to drink. The most vigorous earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. If youre thinking of moving to Alaska, its important to be prepared for rain lots of it. The vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. 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. That means you can have some extra cash to save for a new home, college tuition costs, or the outdoor toys you will want to use as you start exploring the millions of acres of wilderness. If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. 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 frost-free growing season in Alaska lasts for about 100 days. It provides vital nutrients for the body, and it is delicious! 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 long, dark winters can lead to a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (more on that below). Alaska has the sixth-highest average home price among the United States at $285,000. Alaska does not have a state income tax or a state sales tax, which can help to offset the high cost of living. Economy largely dependent on resource extraction, Summary of the Pros & Cons of Living in Alaska, Lets Talk: 20 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Florida (+ Forum), 15 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Massachusetts, 15 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Chicago, Illinois. Okay. Illinois is prone to natural disasters. That check can offer a nice boost to any retiree's budget. Moving to Alaska might not be quite your speed. Alaska has a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities, including over 3 million acres of state park land. Health hazards. Another reason why Alaskas air and water are so clean is the states commitment to protecting the environment. Additionally, the states harsh weather and isolated location can be difficult for some people to adjust to, particularly those who are used to living in warmer and more urban environments. For the first time in 26 years Alaska's population has dropped. Required fields are marked *. And the road systems are fine with me, too. It rains a lot! On average, Anchorage has over 30 inches of snow, from January to March, with another 30 inches accumulating during November and December combined. You are looking at $400 to $1200 a month for electricity. While this can vary in size from year to year, it ranges from $800 to $1,100. Fishing is also an option in the states rivers and streams. Education First things first. 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. Alaska ranks high as one of the most popular cruising destinations in the world. Every winter, thousands of Alaskans suffer from SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder. Hope that you are able to leave there with the same delusion you have now about what a decent place it is. 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. 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. Although there are plenty of flights that you can take from Alaska to the continental 48 states, the distance that you face becomes surprisingly large after you make the move. After all, as they say, laughter is the best medicine, and theres no shortage of dark humor to be found in the Land of the Midnight Sun. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. The median household income is only $65,000, which won't go far with the current cost of living. 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. Adventurous Outdoor. Moose attacks are a prevalent thing in Alaska. meredith baxter father knows best; johnston high school football roster; eviction friendly apartments huntsville, al; thurgood marshall school of law 509; By and large, Oregon is considered a liberal state and hasn't leaned red in a presidential election since 1988. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. So Alaskans are less snobby then everyone else..? So, let's get moving The Great Outdoors. 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. The state also experiences powerful volcanic eruptions from time to time, including the most powerful of the 20th century at Novarupta Volcano. It is held in Palmer, Alaska, in the late summer and dates back to 1936. Contrary to what many people believe, living in Alaska is actually quite expensive with the cost of living nearly 30% higher than the national average. 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. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. It does have the fifth lowest sales tax in the country, and the state ranks first in overall tax burden for companies. Ignore the cold while having a good soak in many of the natural hot springs in Alaska. In Sitka there are a lot of bars and coffee shops. June 21 has almost 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the year. You can spend lots of time hiking, fishing, whale watching. There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. Copyright © 2023 Embrace Someplace | Privacy Policy | As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 7. 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. Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? Visitors and residents can view them between September and late April. Additionally, the absence of a state income tax can make it more difficult for the state to respond to economic downturns or other financial challenges. Low wildfire risk. However, if this is your thing, snow sports will totally be an added bonus. $341,600 85% higher than the US average. It's time to dig into the 10 pros and cons of living in Alaska. One common misconception about SAD is that it only affects people who live in cold climates. The pros of retiring in Alaska are the stunning landscapes, friendly residents, slow-paced and diverse lifestyles that you'll encounter here, and no income tax. how to get to quezon avenue mrt station Uncovering hot babes since 1919. The median values are higher for some bigger cities, such as Juneau and Anchorage, with prices averaging $364,000 and $303,000, respectively. The moist air from the ocean is forced upward by the mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the state. Many tour companies offer wildlife viewing cruises and excursions to see whales, seals, and other marine animals. One of the negative effects of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on mental health. The fees for a business licenses are non-refundable, so if you make an error on your application, then you must pay for a second fee. But don't fret. The top industries in Alaska include oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and government. You just learn to dress for the colder weather. Snow removal is going to become part of your daily life. The state median home value is $265,000, with 71% of the homes in the state priced between $108,000 and $435,000. 17 out of the 20 highest peaks in the United States are found here. 1. People of all kinds and professions from students, nomads, musicians, actors, and businessmen to entrepreneurs, America has it all.. Imagine weeks on end of weather between -15 and -60 below zero. The second largest industry in Alaska is tourism. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). If bar hopping is to your liking, you will need to walk around a bit as Anchorage is very spread out. There was just a new hike to the electric bill. As of the latest estimates from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Alaska is 731,545. Russia and America completed the purchase agreement in 1867. They are more plentiful than you may expect. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. This lack of availability means that many individuals and families are forced to compete for a limited number of rental units, which can drive up prices. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. 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. Culture. Recent job growth is Negative. 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. This is due in part to the states remote location, which makes it difficult to access certain goods and services. So many artists will not come to Alaska to perform. Roads and transportation systems have become very reliable; however, in Alaska it hasnt always been and still isnt as easy as in other places. The Alaskan highways overall road quality and their feeder routes are good, except for some summer road construction. 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. In addition, 71.8% of the homes in Alaska are placed somewhere between $108,722 and $435,285 in value. 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. It can get slightly warmer in February, but it will still average around 13. Hunting options include grouse, hare, mountain goat or brown bear, hunting in the rainforest region. This check is a way for the state to share the wealth generated by the states oil and mineral resources with its residents. That makes it a paradise for those who love to go hunting and fishing. When you consider that they receive a yearly sum from the Permanent Fund, living in Alaska is a great way to save money. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that is related to the changing seasons. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. Pros. A high school education is a basic prerequisite for most . 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). This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Backpacking, canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, hang gliding, and so much more are available in Alaska because the summers are perfect for them. The cons, however, include high gas prices and the cost of living. I actually love all of them! But there are also repelling factors that keep some away. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. 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. The payment in 2017 was $1,100 per person. When Alaska was first established as a state in 1959, its economy was primarily based on fishing, mining, and other extractive industries. And with those points taken care of. It has 17 out of 20 highest mountain peaks in states. The states leaders at the time believed that a state sales tax would be burdensome for businesses and residents, and opted not to impose one. This can be a physically demanding and time-consuming job depending on where you live and how much it snows. 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