A lot of people don't even make that much. In addition, 71.8% of the homes in Alaska are placed somewhere between $108,722 and $435,285 in value. The strongest earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. Alaska is a vast and very remote state with many communities being extremely isolated from the rest of the country. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. 4. 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. 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 nothing that you can do to change this perspective. This park is famous for its brown bears, which can often be seen fishing for salmon in the parks rivers. 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. . One thing Alaskans are very proud of is our clean air and water quality, I can confidently say that the air and water here are absolutely pristine. Ready to head to Americas Last Frontier? safety, community, infrastructure, education, and a list of pros and cons based on data from more than four dozen trusted sources. Venture to Alaska if you want to see the Aurora Borealis. 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. 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. You're looking to save money on a monthly basis. When you move to Alaska, you will discover that there are military, transportation, healthcare, and construction jobs readily available. Another thing that makes Alaska so incredible is the sense of freedom that you feel here. For someone who receives one of these dividend checks, its always a welcome boost to the old income. It is important to note that costs are higher in Alaska because of transportation and its isolation. The sunsets in Alaska are regarded as the most beautiful on earth. Should you move to Sitka, Alaska? Imagine weeks on end of weather between -15 and -60 below zero. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. General healthcare prices within the Anchorage metro area are an astonishing 82% above the national average, based on the Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016. These events are associated with the Aleutian Trench, a subduction zone, where the Pacific plate is pushed under the American continents crust. 7. Despite low-interest rates, there are still barriers to homeownership in Alaska including down payments and mortgage insurance. As with many of the items on this list of pros and cons of living in Alaska, this largely depends on where you live. Wild horses couldn't drag me back here. In addition to lack of houses to own, many Alaskan communities also face a lack of available rental units. 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. In the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. Bears are everywhere in Alaska, and they are not afraid to attack. 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. If you want to work as a freelancer or be self-employed, then you must become a business when you live in the state. Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. Sufferers from SAD experience malaise, anxiety, and deep depression. 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. They are indigenous peoples of the state. And, of course, there is the beauty of Alaska, which offers the . Commercial fishing is another occupation that many households practice in the state. And it's expensive. The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. If you are a married couple with four children, then you received a $6,600 PFT payment. 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. So Alaskans are less snobby then everyone else..? Flickr - JLS Photography - Alaska. Severe climate. 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). It is held in Palmer, Alaska, in the late summer and dates back to 1936. 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 average house price is $303,000, and a gallon of gas will set you back about $2.80 to start with. Anchorage gets about five hours of sunlight during the winter solstice, with 19 hours of pitch-black sky. Many families can still save money because of how taxes are structured here. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. Fairbanks has an average temperature in the city during January of 0. It's time to dig into the 10 pros and cons of living in Alaska. Russia and America completed the purchase agreement in 1867. 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. 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. This event helped to form the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai National Park. In the summer, the days are long and the wildflowers are in bloom, creating a colorful tapestry across the landscape. Watching these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. 56% 12% lower than the US average. Visitors and residents can view them between September and late April. 2. That said, a larger majority of people living in Indiana are white. In fact, Alaska has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country. 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. 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. You have to be careful, though, since it is wilderness, and while they have a good Search and Rescue, sometimes they never find people who get lost, besides danger of slides, injuries. Drawbacks of Living in Massachusetts. These people are defined by their language groups and are considered Alaskan Natives. From the moment you set foot in this wild, beautiful land, you can feel the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. However, that's 17% lower than Manhattan, New York. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. Consider yourself as and adventurous sort that can forgo some creature comforts in return for epic natural bounty? You are looking at $400 to $1200 a month for electricity. Despite higher-than-average wages, low poverty level, and a sparse population, violent crimes are surprisingly frequent. The cost of living in Alaska is really high. 7. It is one of the few places in the world where someone with virtually no experience can still catch enough fish or hunt as a way to feed their family for an entire year. The cons, however, include high gas prices and the cost of living. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. For example, it is illegal to consume marijuana in public, and it is illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana. In addition to those incentives, residents of Anchorage also enjoy having zero dollars in state income tax deducted from their checks. Outdoor activities are literally endless for the adventure-seeking individual. Have you ever heard about the rumor that the government will pay you to live in Alaska? If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. 1. Saved one of the best pros of living in Alaska for last. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. They can be triggered by landslides, volcanic eruptions, or earthquakes. So, let's get moving The Great Outdoors. Nice that you both are nurses, and people are nice to you, because they need nurses in Sitka. The climate is severe, and the strain of life can demand a heavy price. 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 moist air from the ocean is forced upward by the mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the state. Sitka is a city in Alaska state in USA with a population of 8569 residents..The poverty rate of Sitka is 6.6%, which is 53% lower than national average. COST OF LIVING Compared to the rest of the country, Sitka's cost of living is 16.6% higher than the U.S. average. 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. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. 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. 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. A festival haven. For those who live outside of this metroplex, the only option tends to be heating oil, which is much more expensive. Your email address will not be published. And, finally, if you decide to make Alaska your permanent home, you'll soon be eligible for the Permanent Fund Dividend payout, which was $1,114 in 2021. 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. This could be due to factors like a faster pace of life . Moving to an apartment is a great if: You're looking to downsize. The cost of living in Juneau is higher than the national average. Crime is a big issue in Wasilla, which has a population of 9,675. They are talking snobby by Alaska standards, which would probably translate to an average person anywhere else. Some folks I know use it toward a vacation every year. Those activities will make your stay memorable. 1. It typically occurs during the fall and winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. 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. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. Larger cities like Fairbanks, Juneau, & Anchorage have pretty much all the amenities you could hope for as well as entertainment. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. The median home price in Alaska is $337,222 which is well below the national average of 398,500. It is really easy to start a business after you move to Alaska. Have you ever heard of the concept called Island Time? When you move to Alaska, you will get to experience this slowing of life across the entire state. Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. Property taxes are generally low, and the sales tax is non-existent. The cold really becomes a problem if you move farther north. 3. Thats because even if you decide that living here isnt right for you, a holiday visit still creates the perfect opportunity to relax. To cope, some turn to overeating, alcohol, drugs, or extended periods of sleep. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. The good news is that there are more pros than cons to living in Anchorage, Alaska. In 2019, the timber industry in Alaska generated over $935 million in economic activity, supporting over 5,500 jobs. Hope that you are able to leave there with the same delusion you have now about what a decent place it is. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that the vacancy rate for rental units in Alaska is just 4.6%, which is well below the national average of 6.9%. It is important to consider these factors when looking at salary information for Alaska. Fairbanks, a city known for its vibrant arts and culture scene and access to outdoor activities. The majority of people in the state are homeowners, however. It can get extremely cold in Alaska, even during the summer months. With Alaskas 6,640 miles of coastline, tsunamis can happen. In addition to its incredible landscape, Alaska is also home to many glaciers, including the world famous Mendenhall Glacier. Additionally, marijuana businesses are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of schools or other areas where children are present. 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. Homeownership in Alaska stood at 63.7% as of 2018. The Alaska Airlines Center was built, and famous acts now have a place to perform. 3. 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 outdoors is a huge part of Alaskan life: 2. Symptoms of SAD can include feelings of sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. If you are not a household that was living paycheck to paycheck, then this potential disadvantage does not apply to you. Thanks for the replies! Springwater, without a doubt, is considered the best water to drink. This disadvantage is especially noticeable if you happen to have a family emergency going on outside of the state. You heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important then living in Alaska just got easier. 1. List of the Pros of Living in Arkansas. Alaska is the most outdoorsy state in America, 4. The first $150,000 of the assessed value of a home are exempt from property taxes for all residents 65+. This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. It does have the fifth lowest sales tax in the country, and the state ranks first in overall tax burden for companies. 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. You'll definitely enjoy backpacking, hiking, and skiing. Alaska is home to the four largest cities in the US by area. Even if you make your home in Anchorage, there is an excellent chance that you will encounter a moose at least once per day. Culture. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. danitza athanassiadis biography; statute of limitations on traffic tickets in california; craigslist low income apartments for rent. Some items rack up a 25 percent tax, a rate that is only topped by Hungary, which has a VAT of 27 percent. Less comfortable weather (low number of days with temperatures 50-90 F) While this is not a mass exodus it got me thinking about the advantages and disadvantages of living in Alaska. So many artists will not come to Alaska to perform. What makes them seem like that? If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska is for you. However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. 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. In fact, you can compare it with any of the most beautiful spots in the world because of its uniqueness and beauty. You just learn to dress for the colder weather. However, others are concerned that a sales tax could be detrimental to the states economy and place an additional burden on residents and businesses. For those who already live in Alaska, it is not surprising that their state was ranked #1 as the happiest place to live in America by a well-being study conducted by Gallup-Healthways in 2015. Even with strict regulations and watchdog groups, cruise ships still pollute the pristine waters they travel through. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. Home. The top industries in Alaska include oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and government. Clothes as many signature brands origin in there. Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska. Pros of Living in Washington State. By and large, Oregon is considered a liberal state and hasn't leaned red in a presidential election since 1988. The worst thing for most people is the dreadful cold. Not many states are as beautiful as Alaska. As with many of the items on this list of pros and cons of living in Alaska, this largely depends on where you live. 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. Timber is another important resource in Alaska, with the states forests providing a source of wood for the construction and paper industries. You can spend lots of time hiking, fishing, whale watching. Despite their small size, mosquitoes can be a big problem in Alaska, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and those who live in rural areas. 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. The state of Alaska has the lowest taxes in the United States. The most notable of them is Mt. It also gives you a chance to embrace the small-town charm that dominates the culture in the state. Cons: it can get very cold for a very long time. The long, dark winters can lead to a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (more on that below). This means over 99% of the state is wilderness. Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016, Colorado Vs. California (Whats The Difference? Alaska was once thought of as a folly. Alaska has some of the best air quality in America, 10. The state median home value is $265,000, with 71% of the homes in the state priced between $108,000 and $435,000. However, this is not the case. The median rent for a studio and one-bedroom in Alaska is $17 and $21 cheaper than the national average in 2019. 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. Then there are the Northern Lights that you can see frequently dance across the sky all winter long. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 40% of Alaskas population lives in rural areas that are considered frontier or remote.. 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. Loathe darkness, cold weather, rain, and high prices. Adventurous Outdoor. In March of that year, Prince William Sound experienced a magnitude 9.2 earthquake. 2. In Alaska, you will find an incredible amount of beauty. Besides its ideal temperatures of 60 to 80 degrees, the state also offers very long, sunshine-filled days. This means that the states economy is heavily dependent on its natural resources, which can be a good thing but also has its challenges (outside of the obvious ones like massive negative contributions to climate change). 1. The states remote location and difficult climate make it more expensive to transport goods and services to and from the state, which drives up the cost of living. The cost of living in Alaska can also be attractive. In 1971, temperatures drop to a record -80F at Prospect Creek Camp. In general, Juneau is one-third more expensive than the average American city. 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. May 29, 2022 . The area became the 49 th state of the United States. In Alaska, there are two seasons, road construction and winter. 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The inland Alaskan Arctic, where the skies are clearer, is one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights. Clean air and water bad road conditions, and government US average after you move to Alaska if you down-to-earth... Make that much next time I comment ll definitely enjoy backpacking, hiking, and famous now! Miles of coastline, tsunamis can happen January of 0 this metroplex, the days long... 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