You can embrace the life, or you can try to fight the elements. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! Cons: 1 - cost of living is high. If you want to acquire a boat in Sitka, charter boats are another terrific opportunity to check out . 3. Just as Anchorage gets lovely sunshine almost all day during the summer months, it is the opposite during the winter when darkness and cold take over. 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. 7. Despite these challenges, there are efforts underway to improve access to fresh produce in Alaska. In fact, you can compare it with any of the most beautiful spots in the world because of its uniqueness and beauty. There are times when the weather and the costs of living here will be challenging. Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska according to Data Do you live in Sitka, Alaska? A cost of living index above 100 means Sitka, Alaska is more expensive. 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. Because there are fewer consumers in the state, businesses may have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs and remain profitable. The second largest industry in Alaska is tourism. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. Mushing is a sport or mode of transportation powered by dogs. Alaska ranks high as one of the most popular cruising destinations in the world. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. It provides vital nutrients for the body, and it is delicious! To be materialistic is to have values that place a high priority on having many possessions and making large sums of money. This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. One of the things that makes Alaskan culture so interesting is its focus on the natural environment. Many mountain ranges, Mt Denali (tallest mountain in North America), about 100,000 glaciers, nice summers with lots of daylight. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. 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. Another reason why Alaskas seafood is so fantastic is the variety. And the road systems are fine with me, too. 10. As a local Alaskan, I can attest to the strong sense of community that exists in our state. The low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. . Our cost of living indices are based on a US average of 100. Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. Thats because even if you decide that living here isnt right for you, a holiday visit still creates the perfect opportunity to relax. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. Because Alaska does not have an income tax, the state earns its revenues through a tax burden placed on businesses. The cons, however, include high gas prices and the cost of living. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. This can be a physically demanding and time-consuming job depending on where you live and how much it snows. That money applies to every person in your family, including the kids. Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. As a resident of Alaska, you get to experience the renowned Alaska State Fair, which is one of the best in the country. That never happened, but it is an interesting part of U.S. history that isnt always taught in history class. The state of Alaska has the lowest taxes in the United States. The states rugged landscape and extreme climate have shaped the way of life of its residents, and this can be seen in many aspects of the culture. There is a reason almost every car in Alaska, old or new, has a dent! 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. 6. Sitka cost of living is 116.6. Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. In recent years, the amount of the dividend has ranged from a low of $900 to a high of $2,000. 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. Pros: Nice, quiet small town Good controls on development; no big box stores or too many chain stores, etc Beautiful esp. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. Commercial fishing is another occupation that many households practice in the state. 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. 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. As of the latest estimates from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Alaska is 731,545. The cost of living in Alaska is really high. This lack of a state sales tax is unusual among U.S. states, as the majority of states impose some form of sales tax on purchases made within the state. From small town fairs to large cultural events, there are always opportunities to come together and celebrate the things that make Alaska special. Hunting options include grouse, hare, mountain goat or brown bear, hunting in the rainforest region. It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. They are talking snobby by Alaska standards, which would probably translate to an average person anywhere else. The Pros & Cons of Living in Ashland vs. Bend, The following errors occurred with your submission. First of all, Alaska is a state of mountains. What are the pros and cons of living in Alaska? With the cost of a gallon of gas in Alaska at $3.36 according to GasBuddy, it is the sixth-highest in the whole country. You will need to adjust to doing a lot of shoveling, blowing, and plowing to keep your walkways and driveway clear. The trails in the city are closed frequently because of bear activity. Reasons not to move to Alaska. 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. I actually love all of them! On the other hand, a resource extraction economy can also be vulnerable to changes in the market or shifts in consumer demand. Airborne pollutants are monitored and regulated, but infractions are common with financial penalties. To cope, some turn to overeating, alcohol, drugs, or extended periods of sleep. So many artists will not come to Alaska to perform. The strongest earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. They can be triggered by landslides, volcanic eruptions, or earthquakes. It ranks fifth for the lowest sales tax in the country but first in overall tax burden for companies. From the natural beauty of the Aleutian Islands, which has dozens of volcanoes, to the snow-covered peaks of the Denali National Park, Alaska is both overwhelming and blissful at the same time. Smaller places with 1 BD are cheaper but if you have a family, 3BD are $1500/mo and up. We have more than 10 years of experience in the civil works industry and we are experts in new house construction, tiles works, earth moving works, architecture works, and compound wall works The suns view so far north is unbelievable. 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. The more rural cities can feel like youre on the surface of the moon. When you live in the state, then you are 15 minutes from being out in the wild, no matter where your home happens to be. Find flights to Alaska from $177. Home ownership. The entire state of Alaska has a laid-back feel. 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. 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. That gives you plenty of time to start exploring the 300 miles of trails that are around this one city. 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. These activities are taken to the next level when you move to this state. In recent years, there have been efforts to reconsider the lack of a state sales tax in Alaska. Yes, Alaska is generally considered to be a very tax-friendly state for residents. The fair is nearly two weeks long and is Alaskas largest annual event. It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. COST OF LIVING: Sitka: Alaska: USA Overall: 116.6: 116.5: 100 Grocery: 146.4: 141.7 . The lack of a state income tax can be a financial benefit for residents, as it can help to offset the high cost of living in the state. 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. 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. Pros and Cons of Charter Fishing. In fact, there are so many different types of seafood to choose from in Alaska that you could eat a different type of fish or shellfish every day for a year and still have some leftovers. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. Because not all companies ship products to Alaska, obtaining the items you ordered can be a problem. Some folks I know use it toward a vacation every year. However, others are concerned that a sales tax could be detrimental to the states economy and place an additional burden on residents and businesses. The public schools in Sitka are above average. 1. This event caused the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai Park. Thanks in advance! The rest of the state is largely rural and sparsely populated. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cost of living in Alaska is 29.5% higher than the national average. 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. The cold really becomes a problem if you move farther north. 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. 03 Jun. Self-employed individuals or freelancers must become a business when living in Alaska. In 2019, the timber industry in Alaska generated over $935 million in economic activity, supporting over 5,500 jobs. The daily commute in Alaskan cities is one of breathtaking views of lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and gleaming glaciers, which would make driving to work a pleasure for most residents. When you move further north in the state, thats when the cold really becomes an issue. 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. It typically occurs during the fall and winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. A typical cruise ship produces thousands of gallons of raw sewage, garbage, wastewater, and oily bilge water from their engines. So, while the darkness in Alaska can be beautiful and magical at times, it can also be a real challenge. Here are some tips to help repel the mosquito. Moving to Alaska, United States. Automatically get personalized recommendations on where to move. The biggest problem, however, is accessibility. The pros: pretty low crime rate (although it's growing more and more every year . 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. For some families, that is enough incentive to make the move immediately. 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. 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. As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. This can make fresh fruits and vegetables more expensive and less readily available than in other parts of the country. However, you must be aware of what you are eating, as some might be poisonous. While bear attacks always make the headlines, they are few compared to the number of people who die of exposure in the extreme cold. 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. 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. Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. Additionally, Alaskas coastal location means that it is often hit by storms, which can bring even more precipitation. 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. Homes in Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the country. 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 state of Alaska does not have a state sales tax. 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. In the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. For example, many Alaskans work in the fishing or oil industries, and these jobs can be well-paying and provide benefits like health insurance and retirement savings. 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. People who live in Alaska are called Alaskans. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 40% of Alaskas population lives in rural areas that are considered frontier or remote.. But why is Alaska so rainy? There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. 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. 1. Living in Alaska Pros and Cons Pros You will experience the great outdoors in Alaska in a way that you never have before. 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. Since so many of you are interested in what it's like to live in Alaska, here I break down the pros & cons after having lived here for over a year straight.C. We are passionate about home decor, design, and all things home related. Timber is another important resource in Alaska, with the states forests providing a source of wood for the construction and paper industries. Compare Now. The violent crime rate of Sitka is 52% lower than national average. Compared to other locations in the country, even the southern locations of Alaska have more snowfall. Alaska has the longest coastline of any state in the United States, at over 6,600 miles long. This becomes obvious if you have a family emergency happening outside the state. The state also experiences powerful volcanic eruptions from time to time, including the most powerful of the 20th century at Novarupta Volcano. Well Ive got news for you. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. In fact, according to the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, over half of the households in rural Alaska are considered overcrowded.. As a result, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reports that over 90% of the states surface waters are classified as clean or moderately clean, with only a small number of areas classified as polluted.. The sunsets in Alaska are regarded as the most beautiful on earth. However, it is important to note that marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and there are some restrictions on its use in Alaska. They used Attu and Kiska has a potential launching point if they were ever going to try to invade the continental 48 states. 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. In addition to national parks, there are also many other opportunities for wildlife viewing in Alaska. Situated in the far north, away from the pollution of major cities and industrial areas, Alaska is blessed with some of the cleanest air in the country. The decision to not impose a state sales tax in Alaska is rooted in the states history and its reliance on natural resource extraction for revenue.