Juneau, the state capital and a popular destination for its historic downtown and nearby outdoor attractions. Get yours today! Alaska does not have a state income tax or a state sales tax, which can help to offset the high cost of living. The decision to not impose a state sales tax in Alaska is rooted in the states history and its reliance on natural resource extraction for revenue. If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. If you are not a household that was living paycheck to paycheck, then this potential disadvantage does not apply to you. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. There are even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. Prince William Sound experienced a 9.2 quake in March of that year. Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. Alaska has the best summers in the world. Your email address will not be published. Because there are fewer consumers in the state, businesses may have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs and remain profitable. For example, if the price of oil drops or there is a decline in the demand for fish, it can have a negative impact on the states economy. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. There is some truth to this idea that is percolating around the Internet. The costs make the town kind of love it or leave it. Prices for both of those items are obscene. 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. As a local in Alaska, I can say with 100% certainty (according to my taste buds) that the fresh seafood here is absolutely top-notch. The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. One of the things that makes Alaskas seafood so amazing is its location. Alaska Maltese puppy, we encourage you to browse our selection and reach out to us with any questions you may have. Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Native American, Russian, and American influences. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. 1. 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. McKinley. That is true because of the added transportation costs to move goods that far north. It is possible to drive from Seattle to Alaska in about 72 hours if you dont make a lot of stops along the 1,000-mile trek. The rest of the state is largely rural and sparsely populated. 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. Residents are not required to pay either income tax or sales tax. The median rent for a studio and one-bedroom in Alaska is $17 and $21 cheaper than the national average in 2019. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. 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 good place to retire for people who love nature, dont live on a fixed income, and are alright with harsh weather. You heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important then living in Alaska just got easier. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. 56% 12% lower than the US average. 3. They are required to pay property taxes, but the fact that they can save on state income tax and sales tax is a considerable saving for the residents. Our cost of living indices are based on a US average of 100. In addition to lack of houses to own, many Alaskan communities also face a lack of available rental units. Situated in the far north, away from the pollution of major cities and industrial areas, Alaska is blessed with some of the cleanest air in the country. In other words, its the Arctic Circle of flavor. There are several positions that help to support the tourism industry in the state as well. Alaska is a beautiful and unique state with a lot to offer retirees. 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. The moist air from the ocean is forced upward by the mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the state. 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. If you are out hiking, you need to be aware of your surroundings. You can embrace the life, or you can try to fight the elements. Sitka Housing Options Homes For Sale New Homes 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. But what made it more notable was the pristine setting where it took place. There are numerous job opportunities available in Alaska right now. 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. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. As symptoms become more severe, suicide can result. Living in Sitka Alaska Everyday life in Sitka, Alaska. Ignore the cold while having a good soak in many of the natural hot springs in Alaska. 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. However, others are concerned that a sales tax could be detrimental to the states economy and place an additional burden on residents and businesses. This can be a difficult adjustment for newcomers living in Alaska. The Alaska Airlines Center was built, and famous acts now have a place to perform. But why is Alaska so rainy? Alaskas economy is largely based on resource extraction, such as fishing, mining, and oil drilling. Living in Alaska Pros and Cons Pros You will experience the great outdoors in Alaska in a way that you never have before. The median values are higher for some bigger cities, such as Juneau and Anchorage, with prices averaging $364,000 and $303,000, respectively. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. This has created a diverse and vibrant cultural landscape, with over 20% of the states population being of Native American or Alaska Native descent. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. Oh, okay. The majority of people in the state are homeowners, however. Alaska puts you face-to-face with wildlife all of the time. As with many of the items on this list of pros and cons of living in Alaska, this largely depends on where you live. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. The result is your tax burden is potentially higher than it would be in some states. 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. They are talking snobby by Alaska standards, which would probably translate to an average person anywhere else. 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. Where most of the highest peaks within the US are found. Moose attacks are a prevalent thing in Alaska. This event caused the Valley of 10,000 Smokes at Katmai Park. The Natural Splendor If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. Cost of Living in Sitka, Alaska. Local taxes tend to be lower than they are in the continental 48 states as well. Alaska ranks second to Wyoming for the highest rate of suicide in the country. 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. Fishing is also an option in the states rivers and streams. The more rural cities can feel like youre on the surface of the moon. Try Premium; Log In Sign Up. 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. An amount below 100 means Sitka is cheaper than the US average. People turnover a lot. The biggest problem, however, is accessibility. 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. The state of Alaska has the lowest taxes in the United States. The states natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and relatively low cost of living make it an appealing destination for retirees. The most notable of them is Mt. While bear attacks always make the headlines, they are few compared to the number of people who die of exposure in the extreme cold. This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. Sitka also has a wider range of water -based activities compared to Skagway. Outdoor activities are literally endless for the adventure-seeking individual. The cost of living in Alaska is higher than the national average. Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. . With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. Besides its ideal temperatures of 60 to 80 degrees, the state also offers very long, sunshine-filled days. it's cool - pros and cons of anchorage - 9/5/2022 it's nice, i liked it when i grew up there. Despite their small size, mosquitoes can be a big problem in Alaska, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and those who live in rural areas. In 1971, temperatures drop to a record -80F at Prospect Creek Camp. The fund was established in 1976 to conserve a portion of the states revenue from mineral resources, to help future generations of Alaskans, and attract new residents to the state. With Alaskas 6,640 miles of coastline, tsunamis can happen. 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 lack of available housing in Alaska, particularly in rural areas, can make it difficult for residents to find a place to live. 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. Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. We are passionate about home decor, design, and all things home related. Moose and caribou are abundant throughout Alaska. Daylight is nonexistent in the northernmost regions for months at a time, which creates a physiological shift in disposition and mood. 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. If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. Youll experience a shorter summer, but it wont be a jarring difference. As a result, no urban developments have emerged in those areas. 8. 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. Every day is casual Friday in this state. Well Ive got news for you. In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. 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%. The public schools in Sitka are above average. The top industries in Alaska include oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and government. One of the most effective treatments for SAD is exposure to bright light. They are indigenous peoples of the state. In addition, the states economy is heavily dependent on the oil industry, which can be volatile and contribute to fluctuations in the cost of living. Another thing that contributes to the strong sense of community in Alaska is the fact that many people rely on one another for support in daily life. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cost of living in Alaska is 29.5% higher than the national average. This park is famous for its brown bears, which can often be seen fishing for salmon in the parks rivers. Maltese Dog Pictures . To make things worse, Alaskan private company employees spend more than $99 over the national average for healthcare costs for one person. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. 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. Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). The high cost of living in Alaska can be a challenge for many people, particularly for those on fixed incomes or low salaries. It is not unusual to encounter wildlife every day when you are living in Alaska. Because not all companies ship products to Alaska, obtaining the items you ordered can be a problem. 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. 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. For generations, dogsled racing has been one of the most prominent sports in Alaska. This can make fresh fruits and vegetables more expensive and less readily available than in other parts of the country. There are many features we have already discussed that draw people to this beautiful state. 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. There isnt an argument to make for any other location. This means that our seafood is not only fresh, but it also has a unique flavor that cant be found anywhere else in the world. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. It is important to note that costs are higher in Alaska because of transportation and its isolation. In fact, according to the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, over half of the households in rural Alaska are considered overcrowded.. Alaska Will Pay You to Move There Dog sleds remained an essential mode of transportation even after the Gold Rush era. Looking to move to Alaska to save on taxes? Despite its reputation for cold weather and snow, Alaska is actually one of the rainiest states in the United States. Its an adventure that exceeds some folks wildest dreams and drives other people out faster than you can say Ketchikan. Because Alaska does not have an income tax, the state earns its revenues through a tax burden placed on businesses. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. The state median home value is $265,000, with 71% of the homes in the state priced between $108,000 and $435,000. Instead, it relies on other sources of revenue, such as taxes on oil and natural gas production, to fund state government services. Oil spills continue to occur regularly in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred. Dog sleds have been a means of transportation for centuries, especially in the Arctic and sub-Arctic areas. The vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. 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. This makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. When you start thinking about the jobs that are open in Alaska, two industries come to mind immediately: the oil industry, and the natural gas industry. A deadline that is more of a suggestion then a finite term. Your email address will not be published. Compare Sitka, Alaska Cost of Living vs Anchorage, Alaska Cost of Living: Taxes, Childcare, Groceries, Health. In recent years, there have been efforts to reconsider the lack of a state sales tax in Alaska. To be materialistic is to have values that place a high priority on having many possessions and making large sums of money. That is how Alaska got the name Land of the Midnight Sun.. Anchorage never had a venue large enough for famous musicians to performuntil recently. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. Residents in Alaska enjoy the ultimate summer. 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. 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. You have to love it and love the lifestyle to justify staying long term. It is important to consider these factors when looking at salary information for Alaska. 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. But there are also repelling factors that keep some away. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. Terrific information. 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. 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. If you want to work as a freelancer or be self-employed, then you must become a business when you live in the state. Not many states are as beautiful as Alaska. A Travel Website About Portland and Oregon, Article Overview: Living in Alaska, Moving to Alaska. 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. This check is a way for the state to share the wealth generated by the states oil and mineral resources with its residents. 03 Jun. Iditarod mushers will take you on a dog sled ride, share stories about the race, and let you pet and cuddle with the sled dogs. So, while the darkness in Alaska can be beautiful and magical at times, it can also be a real challenge. COST OF LIVING: Sitka: Alaska: USA Overall: 116.6: 116.5: 100 Grocery: 146.4: 141.7 . Pros; it is on an island. Anchorage gets about five hours of sunlight during the winter solstice, with 19 hours of pitch-black sky. Compared to other locations in the country, even the southern locations of Alaska have more snowfall. 8. In Sitka there are a lot of bars and coffee shops. Sitka is on an island and the only access is by plane or boat. 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. McKinley, which is the tallest mountain in North America at 20,320 feet. Most accidental deaths are from residents who die while sleeping due to carbon monoxide poisoning from clogged chimneys or faulty heaters. In fact, according to the EPA, over 90% of the air quality monitoring sites in Alaska have air quality that is classified as good or moderate,. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. The higher median salary in Alaska is likely due in part to the states high cost of living, as well as the presence of higher-paying industries such as oil and gas. Darkness here can be a real challenge. The process is online, allowing you to obtain your identity numbers and file your incorporation papers in less than an hour for most businesses. So Alaskans are less snobby then everyone else..? As tragic as the spills are, the Alaskans love their oil. June 21 has almost 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the year. That means you are going to be doing a lot of blowing, shoveling, and plowing to keep your driveway and walkways clear. These activities are taken to the next level when you move to this state. In 2014, Alaska voters approved Ballot Measure 2, which legalized the possession, use, and sale of marijuana for recreational purposes for adults over the age of 21. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. They are really an issue only from the second week in June to the last week in July.