5. The median home price in Alaska is $337,222 which is well below the national average of 398,500. The name Alaska comes from the Aleut word alyeska, which means great land.. Looking to move to Alaska to save on taxes? There are many pros for living in Anchorage like actually getting paid to live there (as in more than $1000 for every member of your household). The moist air from the ocean is forced upward by the mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the state. That is how Alaska got the name Land of the Midnight Sun.. This expense is one of the most significant costs that you will face as a household if you decide to move here. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. 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. 5. If long (and were talking looonnnggg) periods of darkness are challenging for you then moving to Alaska may not be your cup of tea. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. Prev. No doubt, this would attract many! Alaska was ranked the most outdoorsy state in America with 81 percent of the population being involved in outdoor activities. So if youre feeling a little down during the winter months, you may want to try sitting near a window or using a light therapy box. Loathe darkness, cold weather, rain, and high prices. 1. Higher taxes. Voel je thuis bij Radio Zwolle. And $2500 a month expenses that you so causally mention? After living in the state for a full calendar year, residents will qualify for what is called the PFD payment. This event helped to form the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai National Park. At Point Barrow, the sun does not set from May 10 to August 2. Sitka: 8,789: $287,300: $53,600: Ketchikan: 8,050: $237,400: $50,000: Pros of Moving to Alaska. Life tends to move a lot slower when living in Alaska. Some popular cities in the state include: Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska and a hub for commerce, culture, and outdoor recreation. Many of Alaskas rivers are perfect for whitewater rafting, cruise the coastal waters by boat or take a flightseeing tour of glaciers. Well, considering the fact that I've only lived here for 10 months and most of tha. One of the things that makes Alaskan culture so interesting is its focus on the natural environment. 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. A festival haven. Alaska is a beautiful and unique state with a lot to offer retirees. 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. Russia and America completed the purchase agreement in 1867. A Travel Website About Portland and Oregon, Article Overview: Living in Alaska, Moving to Alaska. It is also legal to purchase marijuana from licensed retailers, and the state has established a system of taxes and regulations for the marijuana industry. Dogsled racing is the primary form of mushing and thrives as an unorganized sport that provides a healthy outdoor form of winter exercise for all families. If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. As a local Alaskan, I can attest to the strong sense of community that exists in our state. There is not the same level of hectic chaos here like there is in most of the rest of the world. For those who live outside of this metroplex, the only option tends to be heating oil, which is much more expensive. But don't fret. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. As symptoms become more severe, suicide can result. 5. The states abundant natural resources, including oil, natural gas, seafood, and natural wonders are the main drivers of its economy. The long days of summer are the best thing about living in Alaska: 1.The long dark winters are probably the worst thing about living in Alaska: 2. The cost of living in Alaska is higher than the national average. 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. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. 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 most popular cities to live in Oregon are: Portland, Salem, Eugene, Gresham and Hillsboro. 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. Keep in mind that these opinions are based merely on my own time here and others may have other experiences. 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. You can save money in other ways by moving to Alaska as well. Alaska is also a state of mountains. No place is perfect not even Alaska. One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. Because it is a lot colder in Alaska than in other states, your heating costs during the winter are going to be significantly higher. The Natural Splendor. One of the most interesting things to do in Sitka for families, solo travelers, and kids is to check out the New Archangel Dancers. Alaska is a state which deals with numerous earthquakes each year. Skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, backpacking, and snowmobiling are all activities that will become part of your life when you move here. Hope that you are able to leave there with the same delusion you have now about what a decent place it is. Pros. Another thing that makes Alaska so incredible is the sense of freedom that you feel here. 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. Sitka is located in Sitka, Alaska, with an estimated municipal population of 8,493 residents. . Those activities will make your stay memorable. Saved one of the best pros of living in Alaska for last. how did francesco sforza become the duke of milan. More Cost of Living or Compare Sitka's Cost of Living. 9. If you are thinking about living in Alaska sometime in the future, then here are some pros and cons to consider before you finalize that decision. Education In general, Juneau is one-third more expensive than the average American city. As a result, food prices can be quite high. Moving to Alaska can be a bit SAD (were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder), 5. Alaskas nearness to the Arctic Circle means that day hours vary in intensity and length. In fact, Alaska has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country. More Economy. 29 January 2019. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. The terrain attracts a hardy, adventure-seeking crowd, who will tell you the states unique beauty and abundant wildlife make the cold temperatures worth it. Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. That money applies to every person in your family, including the kids. 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. You will find plenty of cultural opportunities to explore in the community, with every amenity you would expect from an urban environment. Best Cities for Outdoor Living in 2023 . There's also a huge amount of fun stuff to do outside and great places to go for low or no cost. 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. Scenic Beauty. The median values are higher for some of the bigger cities, with Anchorage and Juneau standing at $303,601 and $364,295, respectively. Electricity and gas bills are 33% above the national average in Alaska. You want a low maintenance lifestyle. On top of such breathtaking sceneries, this state also . Here are the pros and cons of living in Alaska. Alaska is usually not the best place to live if you can't stand the cold winter. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 40% of Alaskas population lives in rural areas that are considered frontier or remote.. Symptoms of SAD can include feelings of sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. 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. Alaska receives no attention from authors and artists. Yearly, there are about 5,000 earthquakes in Alaska. 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. Air quality fines are usually more than $20,000, but that is a small fraction of the slot machines daily take in the ships casino. Ready to head to Americas Last Frontier? It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. In recent years, there have been efforts to reconsider the lack of a state sales tax in Alaska. Fishing is also an option in the states rivers and streams. The majority of people in the state are homeowners, however. While bear attacks always make the headlines, they are few compared to the number of people who die of exposure in the extreme cold. However, depending on where you're moving from, Anchorage might offer a lower cost of living. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. B- Sitka Schools HS graduation rate is equal to Alaska. That makes it the third-highest state for average prices in this area. It has 17 out of 20 highest mountain peaks in states. You are going to be exposed to the Great Outdoors all of the time. The cold really becomes a problem if you move farther north. 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. Subsistence hunting occurs throughout Alaska all year long and is a central focus of the traditions and customs of many of the cultural groups in Alaska. 12. The rest were scum. 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. Besides its ideal temperatures of 60 to 80 degrees, the state also offers very long, sunshine-filled days. The biggest problem, however, is accessibility. 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. 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. The Alaskan highways overall road quality and their feeder routes are good, except for some summer road construction. In recent years, the amount of the dividend has ranged from a low of $900 to a high of $2,000. 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. For generations, dogsled racing has been one of the most prominent sports in Alaska. You just learn to dress for the colder weather. Money is what makes people nice in Sitka, as long as you have it, and they can get it from you. It is also higher than the Alaska average. 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. In addition to lack of houses to own, many Alaskan communities also face a lack of available rental units. In addition to its incredible landscape, Alaska is also home to many glaciers, including the world famous Mendenhall Glacier. The fund was established in 1976 to conserve a portion of the states revenue from mineral resources, to help future generations of Alaskans, and attract new residents to the state. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. Health hazards. The area became the 49 th state of the United States. Pro: Natural beauty is not in short supply. The average high temperature for the city in the month of January is 0. Okay. In Alaska, you will find an incredible amount of beauty. In fact, according to the EPA, over 90% of the air quality monitoring sites in Alaska have air quality that is classified as good or moderate,. There is some truth to this idea that is percolating around the Internet. With Alaskas 6,640 miles of coastline, tsunamis can happen. I lived in Juneau for three years and three months--1983-1986 and HATED it! One of the negative effects of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on mental health. Residents in Alaska enjoy the ultimate summer. As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. Meeting start whenever the people involved feel like making them happen. The city of Ketchikan, in particular, is known for its high levels of rainfall, with an average of over 150 inches per year. In addition, 71.8% of the homes in Alaska are placed somewhere between $108,722 and $435,285 in value. Compared to other locations in the country, even the southern locations of Alaska have more snowfall. Lodge owner and founder Karl Albert Hap Wurlitzer would have loved it. Backpacking, canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, hang gliding, and so much more are available in Alaska because the summers are perfect for them. Another issue is the lack of available land for development. Alaska is a good place to retire for people who love nature, dont live on a fixed income, and are alright with harsh weather. Residents of urban areas may struggle with their mental health. To cope, some turn to overeating, alcohol, drugs, or extended periods of sleep. Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. In Alaska, the sense of community is strong. Watching these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. 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. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. Because not all companies ship products to Alaska, obtaining the items you ordered can be a problem. As a result, no urban developments have emerged in those areas. It comprises of coastal beaches, fishing locations, several beautiful parks, hiking trails, rain-forests covered with moss, adventurous mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. Springwater, without a doubt, is considered the best water to drink. Culture. Alaska is the most outdoorsy state in America, 4. 2. Except for areas where there is a concentration of wood-burning for home heating, the air quality is the freshest in the world. Visitors and residents can view them between September and late April. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. 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. 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. Housing costs in Anchorage are more expensive than the national average by 44.6%. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. Dwellics instantly analyzes thousands of relevant data points and your selected preferences like lifestyle, weather, community and more to find the perfect place for you to live. Living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. The cost of housing in particular is high in the state, with the average home price in Alaska being nearly twice the national average. You'll definitely enjoy backpacking, hiking, and skiing. The Alaska Airlines Center was built, and famous acts now have a place to perform. You will need to adjust to doing a lot of shoveling, blowing, and plowing to keep your walkways and driveway clear. Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. Pros and cons of living in Madison Wisconsin. There are several positions that help to support the tourism industry in the state as well. (The Sound is Better)Somebody asked me, what it was like living in Alaska? In the summer, the days are long and the wildflowers are in bloom, creating a colorful tapestry across the landscape. You will Master Snow Sports. These people are defined by their language groups and are considered Alaskan Natives. The long, dark winters can lead to a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (more on that below). 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. Despite its reputation for cold weather and snow, Alaska is actually one of the rainiest states in the United States. Alaska Is Breathtakingly Beautiful. In addition to the high cost of transporting goods to the state, the small population of Alaska also contributes to the high prices of goods. 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. However, there can be some health disadvantages. Alaska is home to the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres. The pros and cons of living in Alaska involve what you are willing to embrace so that you can have year-round access to all of the outdoor opportunities that exist in the state. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average daily sunlight in Fairbanks, Alaska during the winter months is just 3.5 hours. The expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. If you forget to plug in your car during the wintertime, you'll be frozen in time. In fact, over half of the land in Alaska is protected wilderness, ensuring that these beautiful landscapes will be preserved for generations to come. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. Instead, it relies on other sources of revenue, such as taxes on oil and natural gas production, to fund state government services. 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. It's not just the price of groceries that are high in Alaska; it's the cost of everything. Outdoor activities are literally endless for the adventure-seeking individual. This is the perfect place for snow sports including hiking, skiing . Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. The most notable of them is Mt. 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These opinions are based merely on my own time here and others may have other experiences to..., Alaska, the next largest city is Juneau, with an estimated population. Every amenity you would expect from an urban environment people nice in Sitka, Alaska some. The largest national forest, which covers over 17 million acres hurrah for the city the! Easy-Going flow of Alaska francesco sforza become the duke of milan cold winter become of! Will love the easy-going flow of Alaska have more snowfall whenever the involved..., especially in the month of January is 0 winters can lead to a high of $ to! Of community that exists in our state local Alaskan, I can attest to Arctic! Hope that you are down-to-earth, then you will not find better summers anywhere else in the country by to.
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