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For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. Because of the risk of contamination and sickness, prepare to filter or treat the water if necessary. They are really an issue only from the second week in June to the last week in July. That never happened, but it is an interesting part of U.S. history that isnt always taught in history class. In addition to national parks, there are also many other opportunities for wildlife viewing in Alaska. Because food, other than the local food, needs to travel a great distance to get there, the prices are relatively high. Reasons not to move to Alaska. Rent is only slightly cheaper than in other areas of the country. 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. Get yours today! While SAD is more common in areas with long, dark winters, it can also affect people who live in other parts of the world. Alaska receives no attention from authors and artists. Skagway vs. Sitka - Which Is A Better Travel Destination? This disadvantage is especially noticeable if you happen to have a family emergency going on outside of the state. If you are out hiking, you need to be aware of your surroundings. Some parts of the state see nearly 24 hours of daylight during the season. Alaska is home to the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres. Symptoms of SAD can include feelings of sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. Of the two million tourists to visit the state each year, more than half will arrive by ship. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. Its an adventure that exceeds some folks wildest dreams and drives other people out faster than you can say Ketchikan. In addition to lack of houses to own, many Alaskan communities also face a lack of available rental units. It is thought that the Inuit invented dog sleds to transport supplies and food to their people. 5. Thanks for the replies! Should you move to Sitka, Alaska? 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. The fair is nearly two weeks long and is Alaskas largest annual event. Prices for both of those items are obscene. Another reason why Alaskas seafood is so fantastic is the variety. This has created a diverse and vibrant cultural landscape, with over 20% of the states population being of Native American or Alaska Native descent. Through its established Permanent Fund Dividend Program, Alaska will pay you to move there. The vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. I actually love all of them! If bar hopping is to your liking, you will need to walk around a bit as Anchorage is very spread out. Chill, Diverse People. 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. With Alaskas 6,640 miles of coastline, tsunamis can happen. Homes in Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the country. big sur carmel, monterey itinerary . 2023 Compare Cities Overview: Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK - Best Places Activities that take place outside become a part of who you are. That makes it the third-highest state for average prices in this area. Commercial fishing is another occupation that many households practice in the state. The costs make the town kind of love it or leave it. There are times when the weather and the costs of living here will be challenging. While bear attacks always make the headlines, they are few compared to the number of people who die of exposure in the extreme cold. Additionally, marijuana businesses are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of schools or other areas where children are present. In other words, its the Arctic Circle of flavor. The military base nearby and international immigration has created a cultural melting pot in the area. 10. The strongest earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. 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. The entire state of Alaska has a laid-back feel. But mushing is still an essential part of life for some Alaskans. . On average, Anchorage has over 30 inches of snow, from January to March, with another 30 inches accumulating during November and December combined. Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. They are more plentiful than you may expect. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. (Top 10 Reasons), Do not use scented lotions, soaps, or shampoos, Use a headnet for multi-day backpacking or float trips, Dont wear dark colors, as mosquitoes are attracted to them; wear khaki or neutral shades, Tight woven cotton shirts and pants are better than porous synthetics. As a result, no urban developments have emerged in those areas. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. During the average year, Anchorage sees over 30 inches of snow from January to March. 5 Myths About Retiring in Alaska - Alaska Tour Jobs For those who live outside of this metroplex, the only option tends to be heating oil, which is much more expensive. Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. However, it is important to note that marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and there are some restrictions on its use in Alaska. The overall crime rate in Sitka, Alaska is 8% lower than national average. pros and cons of living in sitka alaska - mamafengshui.com.au Sitka real estate or Sitka rentals. In Alaska, the sense of community is strong. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. Anchorage never had a venue large enough for famous musicians to performuntil recently. In fact, over half of the land in Alaska is protected wilderness, ensuring that these beautiful landscapes will be preserved for generations to come. Thats because even if you decide that living here isnt right for you, a holiday visit still creates the perfect opportunity to relax. Many mountain ranges, Mt Denali (tallest mountain in North America), about 100,000 glaciers, nice summers with lots of daylight. Alaska ranks high as one of the most popular cruising destinations in the world. 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. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. Cordova made our list as one of the best places to live in Alaska for many reasons, and the low crime rates, poverty levels, low unemployment rate, and reasonable housing prices all contributed. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Alaska has the highest cost of living of any state in the United States. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. Great place to raise a family. 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. 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. The climate is severe, and the strain of life can demand a heavy price. Ignore the cold while having a good soak in many of the natural hot springs in Alaska. The median rent for a studio and one-bedroom in Alaska is $17 and $21 cheaper than the national average in 2019. If you want to acquire a boat in Sitka, charter boats are another terrific opportunity to check out . A typical cruise ship produces thousands of gallons of raw sewage, garbage, wastewater, and oily bilge water from their engines. See gorgeous pictures and amazing stories of happy Premier Pups Maltese dogs living in Hobart Bay, Alaska. 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. Alaska is a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs. Because it is a lot colder in Alaska than in other states, your heating costs during the winter are going to be significantly higher. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. No place is perfect not even Alaska. Youll experience a shorter summer, but it wont be a jarring difference. 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. $1,019 7% higher than the US average. There isnt an argument to make for any other location. 8. That is true because of the added transportation costs to move goods that far north. Moving to Sitka, Alaska in 2023 - Dwellics This event caused the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai Park. A buddy of mine brought Sitka gear to Kodiak last fall. (Top 10 Reasons), Why Is Cancn So Expensive? Every day is casual Friday in this state. It provides vital nutrients for the body, and it is delicious! Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. 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. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! Highways are paved in most areas, and the amount of traffic poses no problems for commuters. - The average commute for residents of Anchorage is 8.4 minutes longer than it is for residents of Sitka. Self-employed individuals or freelancers must become a business when living in Alaska. 1. If you shop strategically, especially with your rewards cards, most of the cost difference can be offset with a little creative budgeting. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? Alaska is also a state of mountains. Your email address will not be published. In 1971, temperatures drop to a record -80F at Prospect Creek Camp. People are going to take an individual approach to how they manage their time. 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. Great idea. This can make it difficult to access basic services and amenities, such as medical care and grocery stores. Well Ive got news for you. 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. 7. Millions of marine animals, birds, and fish were killed. Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. Pros: Nice, quiet small town Good controls on development; no big box stores or too many chain stores, etc Beautiful esp. Get out there and meet people and you'll meet some very interesting people. You will need to adjust to doing a lot of shoveling, blowing, and plowing to keep your walkways and driveway clear. Alaska Maltese puppy, we encourage you to browse our selection and reach out to us with any questions you may have. 2023 Compare Cities Job Market: Parkersburg, WV vs Lafayette, IN So, while the darkness in Alaska can be beautiful and magical at times, it can also be a real challenge. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. 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. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. The more rural cities can feel like youre on the surface of the moon. One of the negative effects of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on mental health. Oil spills continue to occur regularly in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred. Sitka, AK - Niche This becomes obvious if you have a family emergency happening outside the state. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. 2023 Compare Cities Cost of Living: Sitka, AK vs Anchorage, AK The cost of housing in particular is high in the state, with the average home price in Alaska being nearly twice the national average. Sitka Housing Options Homes For Sale New Homes As symptoms become more severe, suicide can result. Many tour companies offer wildlife viewing cruises and excursions to see whales, seals, and other marine animals. Living in Alaska pays dividends, literally, 8. That is how Alaska got the name Land of the Midnight Sun.. Cheap Flights from Los Angeles to Alaska from $177 - KAYAK 4BD are closer to $2500. 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. The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. In addition, 71.8% of the homes in Alaska are placed somewhere between $108,722 and $435,285 in value. This check is a way for the state to share the wealth generated by the states oil and mineral resources with its residents. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. Posted by: Category: Uncategorized . Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. Usually, once people settle here, they want to remain. 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. Half of the current population of the state lives in the Anchorage metropolitan area. Cost of Living Find Your Best Place Quiz City Compare Climate Top Lists Rankings Schools Find a Place DataEngine Interactive Map. There are even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. Best Places to Live in Fairbanks, Alaska Fairbanks AK rests close Arctic Circle famed principally for its natural sites such as Chena River State Recreation Area where visitors may take part in different water sports or simply enjoy some peace & tranquility while walking along sandy beaches! 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. 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. 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. Alaska does not have a state income tax or a state sales tax, which can help to offset the high cost of living. A deadline that is more of a suggestion then a finite term. Mountain View in Anchorage is rated one of the most diverse places to live in the United States. 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. The state of Alaska does not have a state sales tax. Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. Alaska offers you plenty of small-town charm, even in the big cities. Because Alaska does not have an income tax, the state earns its revenues through a tax burden placed on businesses. Only a certain type of human decides to live in an isolated community on an Alaskan island, and none of them are boring. The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. The land what eventually become the 49th state in 1957. The Alaskan highways overall road quality and their feeder routes are good, except for some summer road construction. The name Alaska comes from the Aleut word alyeska, which means great land.. Sitka also has a wider range of water -based activities compared to Skagway. There are numerous job opportunities available in Alaska right now. The industry also contributed over $2.2 billion in state and local tax revenue (talk about a vice grip). Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. Anchorage gets about five hours of sunlight during the winter solstice, with 19 hours of pitch-black sky. Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. 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.. 4. As with many of the items on this list of pros and cons of living in Alaska, this largely depends on where you live. Prince William Sound experienced a 9.2 quake in March of that year. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? Electricity and gas bills are 33% above the national average in Alaska. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Alaskas economy is largely based on resource extraction, such as fishing, mining, and oil drilling. The cost of groceries and health care are also higher in Alaska compared to the national average. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. Including the: Pacific Ocean Gulf of Alaska Bering Sea Chukchi Sea Beaufort Sea Most people find that the rewards far outweigh whatever sacrifices they may need to make. The Pros & Cons of Living in Ashland vs. Bend, The following errors occurred with your submission. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. You have to love it and love the lifestyle to justify staying long term. While there are things to do, city life is slow compared to larger cities in the country. One of the most popular places for wildlife viewing in Alaska is Denali National Park. The most notable of them is Mt. 09-28-2015, 02:38 PM rntim Location: sitka, Alaska 279 posts, read 362,335 times Reputation: 381 I live in Sitka. Moving to Alaska, United States. This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. There are about 5,000 earthquakes that happen every year in the state of Alaska. If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. - Anchorage housing costs are 18.0% less expensive than Sitka housing costs. Moving to Alaska might not be quite your speed. Another negative effect of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on your safety. As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. Sitka Pros And Cons Of Living In Sitka, Alaska, Moving to Sitka, USA 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. You can limit this disadvantage by finding a home in or near Anchorage because there is a natural gas infrastructure that gives you access to this affordable fuel. If youre thinking of moving to Alaska, its important to be prepared for rain lots of it. Median rent price. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. 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. Pros than cons to living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their.. Magic of the 20 highest mountain peaks in States hiking, and economic The estimated population of Alaska is 738,000. Dont forget to budget your heating costs during the winter months. Even with strict regulations and watchdog groups, cruise ships still pollute the pristine waters they travel through. PRO: Lots of wild animals. 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. This expense is one of the most significant costs that you will face as a household if you decide to move here. In rural areas, for example, people often rely on their neighbors for help with things like shoveling snow or carpooling. These blood-sucking insects are most active during the warmer months of the year, typically from May to September. To make things worse, Alaskan private company employees spend more than $99 over the national average for healthcare costs for one person. In 2019, the oil and gas industry in Alaska generated over $11 billion in economic activity, supporting over 33,000 jobs. A cost of living index above 100 means Sitka, Alaska is more expensive. 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. But why is Alaska so rainy? Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. Alaska has a very diverse climate, with temperatures and weather patterns varying widely depending on where you are in the state. Local taxes tend to be lower than they are in the continental 48 states as well. Moose and caribou are abundant throughout Alaska. The 9 Best Places to Live in Alaska - The Zumper Blog 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. 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. Despite its reputation for cold weather and snow, Alaska is actually one of the rainiest states in the United States. Pros And Cons Of Living In Sitka, Alaska, Moving to Sitka, USA, Cost of Moving to Sitka, Alaska : alaska - reddit.com Pros; it is on an island. 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. Milestones such as the Klondike Gold Rush, the Good Friday Earthquake, and the passing of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act reserved millions of acres for preservation throughout the state. It does have the fifth lowest sales tax in the country, and the state ranks first in overall tax burden for companies. B- Sitka Schools HS graduation rate is equal to Alaska. 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. Alaska is a vast and very remote state with many communities being extremely isolated from the rest of the country. Automatically get personalized recommendations on where to move. 4. 9. Driving from Alaska to Seattle in 72 hours is possible if you dont make too many stops along the 1,000-mile trip.