They used Attu and Kiska has a potential launching point if they were ever going to try to invade the continental 48 states. 3. Another one of the major challenges of living in Alaska is the high cost of goods. This is higher than the national median salary, which was $45,790 during the same time period. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that is related to the changing seasons. Compare Now. Furthermore, Alaska is a state surrounded by pristine bodies of water. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. 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). ), Why Is Newport Beach So Expensive? Instead, it relies on other sources of revenue, such as taxes on oil and natural gas production, to fund state government services. Chill, Diverse People. Alaska is also a state of mountains. It is really easy to start a business after you move to Alaska. The state is home to many species of wildlife, including brown bears, moose, and bald eagles. The sunsets in Alaska are regarded as the most beautiful on earth. The median rent for a studio and one-bedroom in Alaska is $17 and $21 cheaper than the national average in 2019. Meeting start whenever the people involved feel like making them happen. A typical cruise ship produces thousands of gallons of raw sewage, garbage, wastewater, and oily bilge water from their engines. As symptoms become more severe, suicide can result. 03 Jun. 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. That gives you plenty of time to start exploring the 300 miles of trails that are around this one city. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time Learn More. pros and cons of living in sitka alaskaswiffer commercial actress 2020. junio 1, 2022 . As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. Pros and Cons of Charter Fishing. For most rural residents in Alaska, subsistence hunting is critical to their food security, nutrition, and economic stability. 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. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. The state median home value is $265,000, with 71% of the homes in the state priced between $108,000 and $435,000. But there are also repelling factors that keep some away. The median values are higher for some of the bigger cities, with Anchorage and Juneau standing at $303,601 and $364,295, respectively. In 2019, the oil and gas industry in Alaska generated over $11 billion in economic activity, supporting over 33,000 jobs. ZIPS IN SITKA, ALASKA 99835 Some popular cities in the state include: Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska and a hub for commerce, culture, and outdoor recreation. 8. A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. A buddy of mine brought Sitka gear to Kodiak last fall. Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). The largest employers in Alaska include the state government, the University of Alaska, and the military, as well as companies in the oil and gas industry such as BP and ConocoPhillips. In 2019, the timber industry in Alaska generated over $935 million in economic activity, supporting over 5,500 jobs. Salmon fixed any way is a staple; also, reindeer dogs, halibut, crab, sourdough bread, and oysters are among the favorites. For example, some communities have established local farmers markets or community gardens where residents can purchase locally-grown produce. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. Cost of Living Find Your Best Place Quiz City Compare Climate Top Lists Rankings Schools Find a Place DataEngine Interactive Map. 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. Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? Alaska has the best summers in the world. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. Sitka cost of living is 116.6. Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time . It typically occurs during the fall and winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. Chartered fishing trips are a great way to spend your time on the sea on a high-quality fishing boat that you will not have to operate or upkeep, and that allows you to fish in a variety of areas effortlessly. Watching these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. For generations, dogsled racing has been one of the most prominent sports in Alaska. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. Another issue is the lack of available land for development. 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 Loathe darkness, cold weather, rain, and high prices. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. We almost all use Helly Hansen Impertec. Hotel costs, gas, food, etc., need to figure into your decision. 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. 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. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. If you are out hiking, you need to be aware of your surroundings. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Native American, Russian, and American influences. Self-employed individuals or freelancers must become a business when living in 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. Fairbanks is the home to 31,000 people. Alaska will never rank high from a culinary perspective, but there are a few quality meals to be found. That means you are going to be doing a lot of blowing, shoveling, and plowing to keep your driveway and walkways clear. Even if you make your home in Anchorage, there is an excellent chance that you will encounter a moose at least once per day. The most notable of them is Mt. If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. The median home price in Alaska is $337,222 which is well below the national average of 398,500. 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. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. 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. 1. This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. 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. 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 stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. There are even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. This can make fresh fruits and vegetables more expensive and less readily available than in other parts of the country. 3. It is important to consider these factors when looking at salary information for Alaska. 4. In Sitka there are a lot of bars and coffee shops. The constant buzzing and biting can be annoying, and in some cases, mosquitoes can even transmit diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria. Hike through Denali National Park or cruise the Seward Highway. To maximize your chances of seeing them, Prudhoe Bay and Barrow in the extreme north or the remote northern villages of Coldfoot in the Yukon Territory offer the best possibility of viewing the Lights. Roads and transportation systems have become very reliable; however, in Alaska it hasnt always been and still isnt as easy as in other places. Some communities have their own licensing requirements to follow as well. There isnt an argument to make for any other location. One common misconception about SAD is that it only affects people who live in cold climates. 10. 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. The entire state of Alaska has a laid-back feel. Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. Because not all companies ship products to Alaska, obtaining the items you ordered can be a problem. It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. The Alaska Airlines Center was built, and famous acts now have a place to perform. 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. One of the advantages of a resource extraction economy is that it can provide good jobs and a stable source of income for many people. You can get paid to live in Alaska once you qualify. There is a reason almost every car in Alaska, old or new, has a dent! Economy largely dependent on resource extraction, Summary of the Pros & Cons of Living in Alaska, 15 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Los Angeles, California, 15 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Orlando, Florida (Locals Guide), 15 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Hawaii. 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. Ignore the cold while having a good soak in many of the natural hot springs in Alaska. I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. Another negative effect of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on your safety. Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, was almost 300,000 people calling at their home. This means that locally-grown fruits and vegetables may only be available for a few months out of the year, further limiting options for consumers. Yearly, there are about 5,000 earthquakes in Alaska. Airborne pollutants are monitored and regulated, but infractions are common with financial penalties. Your email address will not be published. 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. Because there are fewer consumers in the state, businesses may have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs and remain profitable. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. Breathtaking scenery. Copyright © 2023 Embrace Someplace | Privacy Policy | As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Maybe living in Alaska is your pace. Population 8,518 View Nearby Homes Alaska Real Estate Median Home Value $367,800 National $244,900 Living in Sitka Alaska Everyday life in Sitka, Alaska. Some refer to mosquitoes as the states official bird, given their ubiquity and ability to survive in harsh environments. As someone who has lived in Alaska for most of my life I can say there are some amazing things about living in Alaska and some things everyone should know before moving here. The estimated population of Alaska is 738,000. The state of Alaska does not have a state sales tax. Explore the best neighborhoods to live in the U.S. based on crime, public schools, real estate, housing, properties, cost of living, job opportunities, and local amenities in Alaska. Alaska puts you face-to-face with wildlife all of the time. Some of this number leave and move elsewhere, but many return to Alaska. Because of the risk of contamination and sickness, prepare to filter or treat the water if necessary. The cost of living in Alaska is really high. The law went into effect on February 24, 2015, making Alaska the third state in the United States to legalize marijuana for recreational use, after Colorado and Washington. Many tour companies offer wildlife viewing cruises and excursions to see whales, seals, and other marine animals. The summer season is also an enjoyable time in the state, with long days, plenty of sunshine, and a mild climate. 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. Cordova has a small-town vibe due to its tiny population of fewer than 3,000 people and is only accessible by ferry. Daylight is nonexistent in the northernmost regions for months at a time, which creates a physiological shift in disposition and mood. 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. So Alaskans are less snobby then everyone else..? 17 out of the 20 highest peaks in the United States are found here. June 21 has almost 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the year. Alaska has a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities, including over 3 million acres of state park land. In addition to lack of houses to own, many Alaskan communities also face a lack of available rental units. That means your tax burden is potentially higher than what it would be in some other states. Alaskas economy is largely based on resource extraction, such as fishing, mining, and oil drilling. However, it can also mean that the state has limited resources for funding certain programs and services, such as education and healthcare. In addition to its incredible landscape, Alaska is also home to many glaciers, including the world famous Mendenhall Glacier. 7. This is a favorable statistic, as the national average is $1,450. 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. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. Cordova. Then the next largest community is Wasilla, with just 10,000 residents. The low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. Cost of Living in Sitka, Alaska. The high cost of living in Alaska can be a challenge for many people, particularly for those on fixed incomes or low salaries. There are several positions that help to support the tourism industry in the state as well. That makes it the third-highest state for average prices in this area. If you decide to make your home around Anchorage when you move to Alaska, then the weather will feel somewhat temperate. 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. 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. The overall crime rate in Sitka, Alaska is 8% lower than national average. Sitka also has a wider range of water -based activities compared to Skagway. Because Alaska is the least densely populated of the United States, you can unwind and relax in complete silence if you choose. Posted by: Category: Uncategorized . Juneau, the state capital and a popular destination for its historic downtown and nearby outdoor attractions. The rise of other modes of transportation, such as planes, trains, and snowmachines, has reduced the need for dog sleds as a mode of transportation. In fact, according to a survey conducted by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, nearly 75% of Alaska residents say that they know their neighbors well and feel a strong sense of community in their neighborhood. 09-28-2015, 02:38 PM rntim Location: sitka, Alaska 279 posts, read 362,335 times Reputation: 381 I live in Sitka. Thats because even if you decide that living here isnt right for you, a holiday visit still creates the perfect opportunity to relax. 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. The cons, however, include high gas prices and the cost of living. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska. The top industries in Alaska include oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and government. These people are defined by their language groups and are considered Alaskan Natives. The violent crime rate of Sitka is 52% lower than national average. $341,600 85% higher than the US average. This event helped to form the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai National Park. The process is online, allowing you to obtain your identity numbers and file your incorporation papers in less than an hour for most businesses. Revathi Constructions is a Leading Construction Company in Trichy. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. One reason is the states location near the ocean. Anchorage gets about five hours of sunlight during the winter solstice, with 19 hours of pitch-black sky. Your email address will not be published. The industry also contributed over $2.2 billion in state and local tax revenue (talk about a vice grip). Even with strict regulations and watchdog groups, cruise ships still pollute the pristine waters they travel through. Even the sidewalks can be dangerous after a snowfall. 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. Most accidental deaths are from residents who die while sleeping due to carbon monoxide poisoning from clogged chimneys or faulty heaters. In fact, you can compare it with any of the most beautiful spots in the world because of its uniqueness and beauty. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. Median home value. It does have the fifth lowest sales tax in the country, and the state ranks first in overall tax burden for companies. Those are the only career opportunities that are available. Many mountain ranges, Mt Denali (tallest mountain in North America), about 100,000 glaciers, nice summers with lots of daylight. Alaska has 35 species of mosquito, and all but a few will bite humans. A deadline that is more of a suggestion then a finite term. They can be triggered by landslides, volcanic eruptions, or earthquakes. There is not the same level of hectic chaos here like there is in most of the rest of the world. The frost-free growing season in Alaska lasts for about 100 days. While bear attacks always make the headlines, they are few compared to the number of people who die of exposure in the extreme cold. 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. 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. Property taxes are generally low, and the sales tax is non-existent. You will need to adjust to doing a lot of shoveling, blowing, and plowing to keep your walkways and driveway clear. (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. That is due to the higher cost of transportation and the isolation factor of the state. Looking to fill those lungs with some fresh, clean air? Compared to other locations in the country, even the southern locations of Alaska have more snowfall. Timber is another important resource in Alaska, with the states forests providing a source of wood for the construction and paper industries. 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 general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The high cost of goods in Alaska can be particularly burdensome for low-income individuals and families, who may struggle to afford the necessities of daily life. Living in Alaska Pros and Cons Pros You will experience the great outdoors in Alaska in a way that you never have before. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. Oh you adventure seeker you With its rugged wilderness, stunning natural beauty, and endless opportunities for outdoor exploration, Alaska is the perfect place to let your adventurous spirit run wild. Alaska is a beautiful and unique state with a lot to offer retirees. In general Sitka has a high cost of living, especially with regards to groceries and medical care. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. It is thought that the Inuit invented dog sleds to transport supplies and food to their people. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary in Alaska was $77,060 in 2021. It can get slightly warmer in February, but it will still average around 13. In Alaska, the sense of community is strong. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. 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. The city of Ketchikan, in particular, is known for its high levels of rainfall, with an average of over 150 inches per year. Median listing prices for other top cities in Alaska include $270,000 for Fairbanks, $339,900 for homes in Wasilla, and $250,000 for homes in Kenai. Moose and caribou are abundant throughout Alaska. Prince William Sound experienced a 9.2 quake in March of that year. The state earns its revenues through a tax burden on businesses, as Alaska does not have an income tax. kinda wish i could move back, . 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. 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. Alaska is one of only a handful of states that does not have a state income tax. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. 9. In Alaska, there are two seasons, road construction and winter. In fact, data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that the poverty rate in Alaska is higher than the national average, with 13.4% of residents living in poverty compared to the national average of 11.8%. Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska according to Data Do you live in Sitka, Alaska? The cost of groceries and health care are also higher in Alaska compared to the national average. Then there are the Northern Lights that you can see frequently dance across the sky all winter long. Compare Sitka, Alaska Cost of Living vs Anchorage, Alaska Cost of Living: Taxes, Childcare, Groceries, Health. 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. They are indigenous peoples of the state. The lack of available housing in Alaska, particularly in rural areas, can make it difficult for residents to find a place to live. 6. 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. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. 1. Of the two million tourists to visit the state each year, more than half will arrive by ship. Many of Alaskas rivers are perfect for whitewater rafting, cruise the coastal waters by boat or take a flightseeing tour of glaciers. As a result, many people end up living in small, crowded homes or temporary housing, such as trailers or cabins. Additionally, the state offers a number of tax exemptions and credits for residents, such as the Alaska Permanent Fund dividend, which provides an annual payout to eligible residents. For some families, that is enough incentive to make the move immediately. 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.