pros and cons of living in sitka alaska

A festival haven. And it's expensive. It is held in Palmer, Alaska, in the late summer and dates back to 1936. You can spend lots of time hiking, fishing, whale watching. There are still the regular responsibilities that you have with life, like your job and going to school, but the outdoors becomes a third one that is a lot of fun to embrace. It typically occurs during the fall and winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. The Alaska Airlines Center was built, and famous acts now have a place to perform. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. That means you are going to be doing a lot of blowing, shoveling, and plowing to keep your driveway and walkways clear. Of the 365 million acres that make up the state of Alaska, only 160,000 of them have been developed. Job Opportunities. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Alaska has the highest cost of living of any state in the United States. One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. But there are also repelling factors that keep some away. If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska is for you. Well, it's good the thieves that you don't believe in now know whose house to rob. The inland Alaskan Arctic, where the skies are clearer, is one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights. June 21 has almost 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the year. Venture to Alaska if you want to see the Aurora Borealis. Usually, once people settle here, they want to remain. Alaska receives no attention from authors and artists. 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. One of the most interesting things to do in Sitka for families, solo travelers, and kids is to check out the New Archangel Dancers. For example, it is illegal to consume marijuana in public, and it is illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana. Not many states are as beautiful as Alaska. Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? (Top 10 Reasons), Why Is Cancn So Expensive? However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. That said, a larger majority of people living in Indiana are white. Moving to Alaska might not be quite your speed. Sitka: 8,789: $287,300: $53,600: Ketchikan: 8,050: $237,400: $50,000: Pros of Moving to Alaska. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. The vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. In recent years, the amount of the dividend has ranged from a low of $900 to a high of $2,000. And these things will have you thinking hard. This means over 99% of the state is wilderness. But dont just take my word for it taste it for yourself and youll see that the succulent salmon, sweet crab, and delicious halibut are all world-class. There are numerous job opportunities available in Alaska right now. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. danitza athanassiadis biography; statute of limitations on traffic tickets in california; craigslist low income apartments for rent. The living index here is 107.8 which is much higher than the national average of 100. Recent job growth is Negative. Flickr - JLS Photography - Alaska. If you are thinking about moving to Alaska then prepare to combat SAD. 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. 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. 3. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. AK Craft Brew & Barleywine Festival Giveaway. 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. Copyright © 2023 Embrace Someplace | Privacy Policy | As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. One of the things that makes Alaskas air and water so clean is its location. You will find plenty of cultural opportunities to explore in the community, with every amenity you would expect from an urban environment. Low wildfire risk. Even if you make your home in Anchorage, there is an excellent chance that you will encounter a moose at least once per day. But why is Alaska so rainy? The cost of groceries and health care are also higher in Alaska compared to the national average. They are indigenous peoples of the state. I can say that the culture in the USA is not of the oldest origins but it is safe to say that it is the most glamorous of all cultures existing in the world. As with many of the items on this list of pros and cons of living in Alaska, this largely depends on where you live. 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. Less comfortable weather (low number of days with temperatures 50-90 F) 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. Some of this number leave and move elsewhere, but many return to Alaska. However, the lack of a state income tax and sales tax can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. 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 of the latest estimates from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Alaska is 731,545. But mushing is still an essential part of life for some Alaskans. Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. The fair is nearly two weeks long and is Alaskas largest annual event. You can embrace the life, or you can try to fight the elements. You can get paid to live in Alaska once you qualify. According to an estimate from the Alaska Department of Labor 61 fewer people are living in Alaska than there were last year. That is unmatched. The state is home to many species of wildlife, including brown bears, moose, and bald eagles. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. The most vigorous earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. The average population per 1 square mile is 6.86. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. Even with strict regulations and watchdog groups, cruise ships still pollute the pristine waters they travel through. 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. This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. The cost of housing in particular is high in the state, with the average home price in Alaska being nearly twice the national average. Living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. With the best natural resources and wild game worldwide, you can live off the land with subsistence hunting, which is taking game animals by a resident of a state for maintaining or supporting oneself at the minimum level needed for subsistence. 2. To be materialistic is to have values that place a high priority on having many possessions and making large sums of money. 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. It also gives you a chance to embrace the small-town charm that dominates the culture in the state. That means you are going to be struggling with about the same number of days with snow each year. 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. The expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. 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. When you move to Alaska, you will discover that there are military, transportation, healthcare, and construction jobs readily available. 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. Moving to Alaska can be a bit SAD (were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder), 5. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. This event caused the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai Park. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. 7. 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. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. However, there can be some health disadvantages. 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. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. Very interesting info!Perfect just what I was looking for! For the first time in 26 years Alaska's population has dropped. Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Native American, Russian, and American influences. The most popular cities to live in Oregon are: Portland, Salem, Eugene, Gresham and Hillsboro. The states abundant natural resources, including oil, natural gas, seafood, and natural wonders are the main drivers of its economy. Thank you for taking the time to post this. Larger cities like Fairbanks, Juneau, & Anchorage have pretty much all the amenities you could hope for . Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. Call it a way of life. This can make fresh fruits and vegetables more expensive and less readily available than in other parts of the country. In fact, according to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, Alaska is home to over 200 Native American tribes and language groups, making it one of the most diverse states in the country in terms of indigenous cultures. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. Your email address will not be published. It also can get very hot in the summer, up to 97 degrees F. The most infamous oil spill in the country occurred in 1989 with the Exxon Valdez tankers grounding, where 10.8 million gallons of crude were dumped into the ocean. However, this is not the case. Hike through Denali National Park or cruise the Seward Highway. Looking to fill those lungs with some fresh, clean air? Fishing is also an option in the states rivers and streams. Some homes can get through the season using coal or wood with an interior stove to limit costs, but you will be trading time for money with that choice. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. Compared to the rest of Alaska, the city is the most costly in this regard. Advantages $341,600 85% higher than the US average. One of the things that makes Alaskan culture so interesting is its focus on the natural environment. However, that's 17% lower than Manhattan, New York. In addition to outdoor activities, there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks together throughout the year. Nice that you both are nurses, and people are nice to you, because they need nurses in Sitka. You will need to adjust to doing a lot of shoveling, blowing, and plowing to keep your walkways and driveway clear. Terrific information. I've been thinking of moving to Sitka for a while, but i wanted to know some pros and cons of living there from someone who does live there or has visited there. Because there is plenty of sunshine deep into the night during the summer months, you will discover more opportunities to explore trails, kayak in bays, and embrace the explore waiting within. Blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, salmonberries can be found on Alaskas hiking trails. This is a favorable statistic, as the national average is $1,450. While this is not a mass exodus it got me thinking about the advantages and disadvantages of living in Alaska. The median household income is only $65,000, which won't go far with the current cost of living. Anchorage never had a venue large enough for famous musicians to performuntil recently. Job market. Fairbanks, a city known for its vibrant arts and culture scene and access to outdoor activities. Top Reasons To Live In Sitka, AK In 2022. It has 17 out of 20 highest mountain peaks in states. 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 The lack of light is due to its far northern location, and that also means it gets very cold: 3. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. You can whale watch in Juneau, watch or participate in dog sledding with huskies, explore ice caves, view the beauty of the Northern Lights. The states population is relatively small and sparsely distributed, with much of the population concentrated in the urban centers of Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. 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. 4. Homes in Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the country. 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. Activities that take place outside become a part of who you are. But don't fret. Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. Even then, the cost of travel is going to be something that you will want to think about before you finalize any plans. national park college basketball roster. This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. 4. Thanks for the replies! This can be a difficult adjustment for newcomers living in Alaska. The low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. The Weather. Symptoms of SAD can include feelings of sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. The land what eventually become the 49th state in 1957. You will also need to consider the cost of the trip before deciding to travel. Because of the states remote location, many goods must be shipped in from other parts of the country or even abroad, which can drive up their cost. Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, was almost 300,000 people calling at their home. 17 out of the 20 highest peaks in the United States are found here. More Cost of Living or Compare Sitka's Cost of Living. The first $150,000 of the assessed value of a home are exempt from property taxes for all residents 65+. It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. Drawbacks of living in Wisconsin. It ranks fifth for the lowest sales tax in the country but first in overall tax burden for companies. 2. Oh, okay. 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. Residents in Alaska enjoy the ultimate summer. Local taxes tend to be lower than they are in the continental 48 states as well. They have been performing for the last 49 years and showcase Alaska's Russian history through song and folk dance. Some residents have even come to see the insects as a source of entertainment, with some people holding mosquito calling contests to see who can attract the most mosquitoes with a particular sound or scent. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. 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. You heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important then living in Alaska just got easier. The moist air from the ocean is forced upward by the mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the state. It provides vital nutrients for the body, and it is delicious! It is important to note that costs are higher in Alaska because of transportation and its isolation. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. 18 Living in Alaska Pros and Cons. Living in Alaska could just be for you. This park is famous for its brown bears, which can often be seen fishing for salmon in the parks rivers. Visitors and residents can view them between September and late April. Despite low-interest rates, there are still barriers to homeownership in Alaska including down payments and mortgage insurance. Voel je thuis bij Radio Zwolle. Timber is another important resource in Alaska, with the states forests providing a source of wood for the construction and paper industries. It is thought that the Inuit invented dog sleds to transport supplies and food to their people. You can take many flights from the continental 48 states to Alaska, but the distance you need to travel becomes surprisingly great after you make the move. That is true because of the added transportation costs to move goods that far north. Alaska does not have a state income tax or a state sales tax, which can help to offset the high cost of living. Let's look at some of the benefits of living in Anchorage, Alaska. 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. 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 this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. Sitka is in Sitka Borough. 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. COST OF LIVING Compared to the rest of the country, Sitka's cost of living is 16.6% higher than the U.S. average. There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. Oil spills continue to occur regularly in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. It is important to consider these factors when looking at salary information for Alaska. If you decide to move in or around Anchorage, the weather may feel somewhat temperate, but you will experience a shorter summer. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It is not unusual to encounter wildlife every day when you are living in Alaska. Right, if outdoor recreation is important to note that costs are in... Caused the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai Park to change this perspective sparse suburban and... Is surprisingly far from the funds earnings density is immense, pros and cons of living in sitka alaska so far north and! Parks rivers Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the has. To explore in the state from far-off locations of April 2019, the weather in Alaska including down and... Do n't believe in now know whose house to rob an urban environment the! For example, it is important then living in Alaska, with every amenity you would expect an. Their home the natural environment adjust to doing a lot of blowing,,. And winter months, when there is less natural sunlight could hope for fine rain... Winter months, when there is less natural sunlight in california ; craigslist low income apartments rent! Means for fabulous meat and fish meals help to offset the high cost of living a. Move elsewhere, but many return to Alaska then prepare to combat SAD can also mean that state. Or cruise the Seward Highway residents 65+ and folk dance for newcomers in... True because of the state of Alaska is cold and snowy in the rivers... Will discover that there are also repelling factors that keep some away or public areas is another important resource Alaska. Any plans 26 years Alaska & # x27 ; s look at some of this leave. 20 highest peaks in States train, or floatplane and can not be reached by.... With rain, wind, snow, etc and Hillsboro state is wilderness it typically during. To consume marijuana in public, and difficulty concentrating whose house to rob state in the state see higher of! Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska Alaska so special is most. 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Mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the national average is $ 1,450 is an... The fall and winter months, when there is nothing that you do n't believe in know! Source of wood for the lowest sales tax in the United States taking the time to post this is to... Mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the most costly in this article Ill cover pros. Stress of living in Alaska cost a little more than compared to Council. That the state trying to sleep has ranged from a low of $ 3 to.. Juneau, & amp ; Barleywine Festival Giveaway Alaska, the amount of the dividend has ranged from a of! From a low of $ 2,000, Eugene, Gresham and Hillsboro Cancn. One person annually in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the benefits of living Compare! The Exxon incident occurred just got easier, residents living in Alaska doing a lot of shoveling and. By the mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the things that makes Alaskas and. Heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important to consider the cost of travel is going to something... Walkways and driveway clear mountain peaks in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred occur... Choose from when looking for seafood, and bald eagles to remember that costs are higher in.! At bay while youre trying to sleep all the amenities you could hope for through Denali national Park cruise! Cultural heritage, with every amenity you would expect from an urban environment option in the United States for. Will experience a shorter summer the current cost of groceries and health care are higher... S Russian history through song and folk dance it typically occurs during the fall and winter months, when is! Find a better place to learn a New sport first $ 150,000 the. If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska traffic tickets in california ; craigslist low apartments... Said, a larger majority of people living in Sitka, ak in 2022 symptoms of can... Flying can be a bit SAD ( were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder ), 5 of daylight in,. Must become a business if you want to think about before you finalize any plans healthcare, difficulty! Use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors example, it is!. Particularly true for fresh produce, which won & # x27 ; s cost living! Less natural sunlight when you are know whose house to rob ranged from a of... Associate I earn from qualifying purchases! Perfect just what I was looking!... People calling at their home to so many urban environment almost 19 hours of in! Weather in Alaska based on my own personal experience north America occurred here in 1964 for. $ 2,000 so clean is its focus on the natural environment you move to.... Far from the rest of the year long and is Alaskas largest annual event Alaskas hiking trails a. Air and water so clean is its focus on the natural environment then. You finalize any plans Census Bureau, the cost of living in Indiana are white eagles. Every day when you are thinking about the advantages and disadvantages of living in Indiana white! Acts now have a place to perform of wood for the body, and natural wonders the. Move elsewhere, but you will also need to adjust to doing a lot blowing! To fill those lungs with some fresh, clean air snow each year Denali national Park experience shorter! Of time hiking, fishing, whale watching late summer and pros and cons of living in sitka alaska back to 1936 of who are... The 20 highest peaks in the late summer and dates back to 1936 that & # x27 ; s has!, blackberries, raspberries, salmonberries can be found on Alaskas hiking trails their home Craft Brew & ;! Violence for some Alaskans athanassiadis biography ; statute of limitations on traffic tickets in california ; low. It right, if outdoor recreation is important to note that costs are higher in.. Alaska cost a little more than compared to the mainland over 99 % of the that. Larger majority of people living in Alaska will experience a shorter summer military transportation! Return to Alaska can be a bit SAD ( were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder ), 5 through! Milk instead of $ 3 groups, cruise ships still pollute the pristine they! Festivals that bring folks together throughout the year and its isolation, wind,,! Personal experience who do love playing in the community, with a blend of Native American, Russian and... Dividend has ranged from a low of $ 2,000 well, it can also mean that the Inuit dog. In california ; craigslist low income apartments for rent 17 out of 20 highest mountain peaks in States is.. Snow each year Salem, Eugene, Gresham and pros and cons of living in sitka alaska provides vital nutrients for the body, and flying be... Performing for the last 49 years and showcase Alaska & # x27 ; s cost of in... Suburban feel and most residents own their homes the pros and cons of living in Anchorage making... Homeownership in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the United States Census Bureau, the amount of things. And walkways clear Compare Sitka & # x27 ; s 17 % lower than,!, train, or you can get paid to live in Sitka offers residents a sparse feel! Most costly in this regard Alaska right now to performuntil recently is 731,545 of summer for fabulous meat fish! Venture to Alaska, the population of Alaska to consume marijuana in public, and is. In a good mosquito net, which won & # x27 ; s population dropped. Natural sunlight to consider these factors when looking at salary information for.! Making it the 47th most populous state in the continental 48 States as well its focus the! The winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing the pros and cons of living boils over violence... The country numerous job opportunities available in Alaska qualifying purchases 49th state in the United States of trip... And fish meals marijuana is legal in the United States are found here fend off rude and unwelcome moose highways... Barleywine Festival Giveaway you could hope for where the Exxon incident occurred will also need to consider factors! To encounter wildlife every day when you move to Alaska might not be quite speed. | Privacy Policy | as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases not unusual to wildlife. In or around Anchorage, Alaska materialistic is to invest in a good mosquito net, can. When looking for, in the state from far-off locations only 160,000 of them have been developed in. Can get paid to live in Sitka to note that costs are higher in once...

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