pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska

What many people do not realize is that Japan actually occupied two Alaskan islands during World War II for 15 months. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. If long (and were talking looonnnggg) periods of darkness are challenging for you then moving to Alaska may not be your cup of tea. The trails in the city are closed frequently because of bear activity. 2. 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. Symptoms of SAD can include feelings of sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. It is the perfect place to learn snow sports. This has created a diverse and vibrant cultural landscape, with over 20% of the states population being of Native American or Alaska Native descent. Living in Sitka Alaska Everyday life in Sitka, Alaska. Because it is a lot colder in Alaska than in other states, your heating costs during the winter are going to be significantly higher. Median home value. 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. 4. Another reason why Alaskas air and water are so clean is the states commitment to protecting the environment. During the average year, Anchorage sees over 30 inches of snow from January to March. 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. Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). Dont forget to budget your heating costs during the winter months. The moist air from the ocean is forced upward by the mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the state. People are going to take an individual approach to how they manage their time. 20 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Alaska (Local's Guide) 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. 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. 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 even plenty of small business loan programs that are available to entrepreneurs that can ease the burden of start-up costs too. Looking to move to Alaska to save on taxes? There are many off-the-beaten-path natural hot springs and some easily accessible that residents and visitors can enjoy even in the winter. In Alaska, you will find an incredible amount of beauty. Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? 09-28-2015, 02:38 PM rntim Location: sitka, Alaska 279 posts, read 362,335 times Reputation: 381 I live in Sitka. Benefits of Retiring In Alaska (Pros & Cons) | Retire Fearless 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. 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. 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. Compare that with a median price of $1,596 in California and $1,150 in Florida. Outside of Anchorage, the next largest city is Juneau, with a total population of 32,000. After living in the state for a full calendar year, residents will qualify for what is called the PFD payment. The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. Despite the regulations, the violation ofwastewater and air quality regulations is usually repeated. This dividend comes from a permanent fund that is fueled by the oil and gas industry industries. There are several positions that help to support the tourism industry in the state as well. Still, i definitely don't want to live somewhere with snobby people. Some refer to mosquitoes as the states official bird, given their ubiquity and ability to survive in harsh environments. 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. The states population is relatively small and sparsely distributed, with much of the population concentrated in the urban centers of Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. Loathe darkness, cold weather, rain, and high prices. Salmon fixed any way is a staple; also, reindeer dogs, halibut, crab, sourdough bread, and oysters are among the favorites. McKinley, which is the tallest mountain in North America at 20,320 feet. 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. pros and cons of living in sitka alaska - glutapak-r.com But there are also repelling factors that keep some away. In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. 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. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. 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. But why is Alaska so rainy? Beautiful Maltese Dogs Of Hobart Bay, Alaska - Premier Pups If living in a more remote area of the state and want to see the capital of Alaska, plan to take a boat or plane. 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. The cost of groceries and health care are also higher in Alaska compared to the national average. It provides vital nutrients for the body, and it is delicious! Chill, Diverse People. 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 Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. The land what eventually become the 49th state in 1957. You heard it right, if outdoor recreation is important then living in Alaska just got easier. 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,. Alaskas nearness to the Arctic Circle means that day hours vary in intensity and length. The majority of people in the state are homeowners, however. Residents in Alaska enjoy the ultimate summer. 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. Alaska has some of the best air quality in America, 10. The median values are higher for some bigger cities, such as Juneau and Anchorage, with prices averaging $364,000 and $303,000, respectively. According to statistics from the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, the state is home to over 20 different species of mosquitoes, with the Alaska mosquito being the most prevalent. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Alaska has the highest cost of living of any state in the United States. On average, Anchorage has over 30 inches of snow, from January to March, with another 30 inches accumulating during November and December combined. However, you must be aware of what you are eating, as some might be poisonous. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska By On June 22, 2022 In psle 2021 kiasu parents fresno unified school directory on pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska And the road systems are fine with me, too. Some argue that a sales tax could provide a stable source of revenue for the state and help to fund important government services. Moose, brown and black bears, caribou (aka reindeer) elk, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles, etc, etc. Ready to head to Americas Last Frontier? Timber is another important resource in Alaska, with the states forests providing a source of wood for the construction and paper industries. Numerous communities in the northern half of the state experience sub-zero temperatures throughout the year. In Alaska, there are two seasons, road construction and winter. Watching these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Consider yourself as and adventurous sort that can forgo some creature comforts in return for epic natural bounty? In the summer, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. Automatically get personalized recommendations on where to move. Pros and Cons of living in Sitka, Alaska - dwellics.com Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska. 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. Darkness here can be a real challenge. Snow removal is going to become part of your daily life. Meeting start whenever the people involved feel like making them happen. It does have the fifth lowest sales tax in the country, and the state ranks first in overall tax burden for companies. You are going to be exposed to the Great Outdoors all of the time. Soon after the ships hull was ruptured, Prince William Sound was filled with oil. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average daily sunlight in Fairbanks, Alaska during the winter months is just 3.5 hours. If youre thinking of moving to Alaska, its important to be prepared for rain lots of it. You will not find this type of behavior among the residents of Alaska. Required fields are marked *. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and strict environmental regulations, Alaska is a true haven for clean air and water. This can help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of 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. Its no secret that Alaska has some of the most ferocious mosquitoes in the world, with a species called the Alaska mosquito that is known for its aggressive biting habits. When you live in the state, then you are 15 minutes from being out in the wild, no matter where your home happens to be. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. 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. Commercial fishing is another occupation that many households practice in the state. Even with strict regulations and watchdog groups, cruise ships still pollute the pristine waters they travel through. However, it is important to note that marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and there are some restrictions on its use in Alaska. Thanks in advance! 6. Alaska Will Pay You to Move There B- Sitka Schools HS graduation rate is equal to Alaska. Blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, salmonberries can be found on Alaskas hiking trails. 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. You can save money in other ways by moving to Alaska as well. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska - newhomesinbarrie.ca 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. Your email address will not be published. We almost all use Helly Hansen Impertec. Even the southern areas of the state see higher levels of snowfall than most other locations in the United States. 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. Moving to Alaska might not be quite your speed. There are about 5,000 earthquakes that happen every year in the state of Alaska. It is important to note that costs are higher in Alaska because of transportation and its isolation. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. It is essential to remember that costs are higher in Alaska. Another reason why Alaskas seafood is so fantastic is the variety. 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. Saved one of the best pros of living in Alaska for last. Most people find that the rewards far outweigh whatever sacrifices they may need to make. Sitka Pros And Cons Of Living In Sitka, Alaska, Moving to Sitka, USA 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. Not many states are as beautiful as Alaska. They are talking snobby by Alaska standards, which would probably translate to an average person anywhere else. In other words, its the Arctic Circle of flavor. Besides its ideal temperatures of 60 to 80 degrees, the state also offers very long, sunshine-filled days. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. ZIPS IN SITKA, ALASKA 99835 The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. 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. 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. The pros: pretty low crime rate (although it's growing more and more every year . Those are the only career opportunities that are available. As of April 2019, the amount of money spent on food for one person annually in Anchorage is $450. Property taxes are generally low, and the sales tax is non-existent. Get out there and meet people and you'll meet some very interesting people. While this can vary in size from year to year, it ranges from $800 to $1,100. - Anchorage housing costs are 18.0% less expensive than Sitka housing costs. With a strong feeling of purpose in our nation and a sense of contentment, Alaska residents are generally at peace and very happy with the place they call home. Have you ever heard about the rumor that the government will pay you to live in Alaska? Some parts of the state see nearly 24 hours of daylight during the season. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. In general, the weather in Alaska is cold and snowy in the winter, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. If hunting and fishing are among your favorite pastimes, Alaska is for you. People who live in Alaska are called Alaskans. This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. Ignore the cold while having a good soak in many of the natural hot springs in Alaska. This disadvantage is especially noticeable if you happen to have a family emergency going on outside of the state. Alaska has the best summers in the world. You may receive another 30 inches during the months of November and December combined. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska 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. Springwater, without a doubt, is considered the best water to drink. The Alaska Airlines Center was built, and famous acts now have a place to perform. Sufferers from SAD experience malaise, anxiety, and deep depression. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. The expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. 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. However, this is not the case. 5. Posted by: Category: Uncategorized . This is due in part to the states remote location, which makes it difficult to access certain goods and services. However, the median salary can vary depending on factors such as the specific job, level of experience, and location within the state. Many families and young professionals live in Sitka. 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. The Alaskan highways overall road quality and their feeder routes are good, except for some summer road construction. Well Ive got news for you. 18 Living in Alaska Pros and Cons - Vittana.org Terrific information. 17 out of the 20 highest peaks in the United States are found here. Best Places to Live in Fairbanks, Alaska As of the latest estimates from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Alaska is 731,545. If you decide to make your home around Anchorage when you move to Alaska, then the weather will feel somewhat temperate. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. Youll experience a shorter summer, but it wont be a jarring difference. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning contrast to the dark skies. You can whale watch in Juneau, watch or participate in dog sledding with huskies, explore ice caves, view the beauty of the Northern Lights. This makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. When you consider that they receive a yearly sum from the Permanent Fund, living in Alaska is a great way to save money. In addition, 71.8% of the homes in Alaska are placed somewhere between $108,722 and $435,285 in value. Electricity and gas bills are 33% above the national average in Alaska. Then the next largest community is Wasilla, with just 10,000 residents. The constant buzzing and biting can be annoying, and in some cases, mosquitoes can even transmit diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria. Mountain View in Anchorage is rated one of the most diverse places to live in the United States. The frost-free growing season in Alaska lasts for about 100 days. The median home price in Alaska is $337,222 which is well below the national average of 398,500. Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 1,700 species of plants and animals. Some folks I know use it toward a vacation every year. From small town fairs to large cultural events, there are always opportunities to come together and celebrate the things that make Alaska special. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. Pros of Moving to Alaska 1. Sitka real estate or Sitka rentals. Additionally, the absence of a state income tax can make it more difficult for the state to respond to economic downturns or other financial challenges. McKinley. The cost of living in Alaska is higher than the national average. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. But mushing is still an essential part of life for some Alaskans. Population 8,518 View Nearby Homes Alaska Real Estate Median Home Value $367,800 National $244,900 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. The biggest problem, however, is accessibility. 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. Thanks for the replies! 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. A cost of living index above 100 means Sitka, Alaska is more expensive. Sitka Housing Options Homes For Sale New Homes 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. when it's sunny Cons: EXPENSIVE Seems quite snobby Limited trail system and getting above treeline is a haul Rain, rain, lots and lots of rain And all the other stuff that goes with being off the road system in AK, good and bad. In recent years, the amount of the dividend has ranged from a low of $900 to a high of $2,000. When you move to Alaska, you will discover that there are military, transportation, healthcare, and construction jobs readily available. You have to love it and love the lifestyle to justify staying long term. The Natural Splendor If nature is important to you then consider it a top pro of moving to Alaska. In fact, according to the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Alaska has the most state park land per resident of any state in the country, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Anchorage never had a venue large enough for famous musicians to performuntil recently. It ranks fifth for the lowest sales tax in the country but first in overall tax burden for companies. 10. In addition to the high cost and limited availability of fresh produce, the growing season in Alaska is relatively short due to the states harsh climate. Skagway is heavily focused on history, with plaques, tours, and museums (several of which are free) all around the town. One of the things that makes Alaskas air and water so clean is its location. Reasons not to move to Alaska. Living in Alaska I Pros & Cons - YouTube 7. Moving to Sitka, Alaska : alaska - reddit.com Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. Homes in Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the country. Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. Is Sitka, Alaska a good place to live? Visitors and residents can view them between September and late April. Each year, residents living in Alaska full-time receive royalties from the funds earnings. Additionally, marijuana businesses are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of schools or other areas where children are present. In fact, Alaska has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country. When Alaska was first established as a state in 1959, its economy was primarily based on fishing, mining, and other extractive industries. 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.. 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. 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. Local taxes tend to be lower than they are in the continental 48 states as well. Because there are fewer consumers in the state, businesses may have to charge higher prices in order to cover their costs and remain profitable. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of a large town or the seclusion of a remote area of the state, there are plenty of options throughout Alaska. These events are associated with the Aleutian Trench, a subduction zone, where the Pacific plate is pushed under the American continents crust. As with many of the items on this list of pros and cons of living in Alaska, this largely depends on where you live. Alaska will never rank high from a culinary perspective, but there are a few quality meals to be found. Roads and transportation systems have become very reliable; however, in Alaska it hasnt always been and still isnt as easy as in other places. Should you move to Sitka, Alaska? Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). These activities are taken to the next level when you move to this state. This is higher than the national median salary, which was $45,790 during the same time period. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. 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. Pros and Cons of Charter Fishing - Action Alaska Sportfishing If you are a married couple with four children, then you received a $6,600 PFT payment. That is true because of the added transportation costs to move goods that far north. The wildlife is as incredible as they say, 4. 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. 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. Keep in mind that these opinions are based merely on my own time here and others may have other experiences. But what made it more notable was the pristine setting where it took place. That means you are going to be doing a lot of blowing, shoveling, and plowing to keep your driveway and walkways clear. 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. There are times when the weather and the costs of living here will be challenging. Compare Now. Cost of Living in Sitka, Alaska. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. 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! Except for areas where there is a concentration of wood-burning for home heating, the air quality is the freshest in the world. Many families can still save money because of how taxes are structured here. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. Skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, backpacking, and snowmobiling are all activities that will become part of your life when you move here. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. Despite their small size, mosquitoes can be a big problem in Alaska, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and those who live in rural areas. There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. The lack of available housing in Alaska, particularly in rural areas, can make it difficult for residents to find a place to live. One common misconception about SAD is that it only affects people who live in cold climates. There is a reason almost every car in Alaska, old or new, has a dent! 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. Oh, okay. Alaska is a beautiful and unique state with a lot to offer retirees. Rent is only slightly cheaper than in other areas of the country. Alaska does not have a state income tax or a state sales tax, which can help to offset the high cost of living. Moving to Alaska can be a bit SAD (were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder), 5. Situated in the far north, Alaska is surrounded by cold, clean ocean waters that are teeming with a wide variety of fish and shellfish. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. Pros And Cons Of Living In Alaska, Moving to Alaska, USA, Cost of