So, while the darkness in Alaska can be beautiful and magical at times, it can also be a real challenge. Backpacking, canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, hang gliding, and so much more are available in Alaska because the summers are perfect for them. Search for Kaua'i flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. . Must be about $1200 for the electric bill, and $1500 for rent? But if something were to happen to you where you couldn't bring in that income, you got behind, believe me, it would be a different story. 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. That money applies to every person in your family, including the kids. 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. It can get slightly warmer in February, but it will still average around 13. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. You may receive another 30 inches during the months of November and December combined. Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. Not many states are as beautiful as Alaska. In Alaska, there are two seasons, road construction and winter. $341,600 85% higher than the US average. 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. Skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, backpacking, and snowmobiling are all activities that will become part of your life when you move here. Demands for a living wage that is fair to workers have resulted in numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels. Much of the land in Alaska is owned by the federal government, and there are strict regulations on how it can be used. That makes it the third-highest state for average prices in this area. 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. In 2019, the oil and gas industry in Alaska generated over $11 billion in economic activity, supporting over 33,000 jobs. Alaska ranks second to Wyoming for the highest rate of suicide in the country. The trails in the city are closed frequently because of bear activity. COST OF LIVING Compared to the rest of the country, Sitka's cost of living is 16.6% higher than the U.S. average. This can make it difficult to access basic services and amenities, such as medical care and grocery stores. If the cold weather of winter does bother you some, then Alaska might not be the perfect place to live. 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. This could be due to factors like a faster pace of life . People are going to take an individual approach to how they manage their time. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. 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. 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. A typical cruise ship produces thousands of gallons of raw sewage, garbage, wastewater, and oily bilge water from their engines. 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. Many families and young professionals live in Sitka. 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. It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. Find flights to Alaska from $177. You have 7 miles of road one way and 6 miles the other. The typical household in Sitka earns $81708 a year, compared to the national median of $67,500.Nearly 29.1% of households earn less than $50,000 a year compared to 39% national rate. Alaska receives no attention from authors and artists. The state also experiences powerful volcanic eruptions from time to time, including the most powerful of the 20th century at Novarupta Volcano. 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. Sitka is located in Sitka, Alaska, with an estimated municipal population of 8,493 residents. Alaska was ranked the most outdoorsy state in America with 81 percent of the population being involved in outdoor activities. Even with strict regulations and watchdog groups, cruise ships still pollute the pristine waters they travel through. Adventurous Outdoor. Scenic Beauty. 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. Venture to Alaska if you want to see the Aurora Borealis. If you decide to make your home around Anchorage when you move to Alaska, then the weather will feel somewhat temperate. A deadline that is more of a suggestion then a finite term. Most people find that the rewards far outweigh whatever sacrifices they may need to make. 9. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. The states rich history is evident when you look through its national parks, museums, artifacts, and its famed oil industry. But mushing is still an essential part of life for some Alaskans. The median home price in Alaska is $337,222 which is well below the national average of 398,500. This makes it easier for people to save money by having a lower cost of living. 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. If you decide to move in or around Anchorage, the weather may feel somewhat temperate, but you will experience a shorter summer. They are indigenous peoples of the state. Benefits of Living in Massachusetts. Usually, once people settle here, they want to remain. Alaska is home to the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres. 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. Consider yourself as and adventurous sort that can forgo some creature comforts in return for epic natural bounty? The constant buzzing and biting can be annoying, and in some cases, mosquitoes can even transmit diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria. Russia and America completed the purchase agreement in 1867. Other cities to consider include Wasilla, Kenai, and Sitka. The most vigorous earthquake ever recorded in North America occurred here in 1964. The median values are higher for some of the bigger cities, with Anchorage and Juneau standing at $303,601 and $364,295, respectively. Alaska is a beautiful and unique state with a lot to offer retirees. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. 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. 6. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 40% of Alaskas population lives in rural areas that are considered frontier or remote.. Contrary to what many people believe, living in Alaska is actually quite expensive with the cost of living nearly 30% higher than the national average. 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. Another sticker shock item for most people thinking about moving from abroad and living in Norway is that the country's value-added tax or Merverdiavgift is really high. Ready to head to Americas Last Frontier? One of the things that makes Alaskas seafood so amazing is its location. The sunsets in Alaska are regarded as the most beautiful on earth. A lot of people don't even make that much. Instead, it relies on other sources of revenue, such as taxes on oil and natural gas production, to fund state government services. The average population per 1 square mile is 6.86. Home. Coastal towns collect more than $60 million in revenue through the docking fees and other taxes. It is not unusual to encounter wildlife every day when you are living in Alaska. Many tour companies offer wildlife viewing cruises and excursions to see whales, seals, and other marine animals. It also gives you a chance to embrace the small-town charm that dominates the culture in the state. Oil spills continue to occur regularly in the spot where the Exxon incident occurred. Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska. . Thanks in advance! There was just a new hike to the electric bill. B- Sitka Schools HS graduation rate is equal to Alaska. Additionally, Alaskas coastal location means that it is often hit by storms, which can bring even more precipitation. Moose attacks are a prevalent thing in Alaska. 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. 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. In fact, according to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, Alaska is home to over 200 Native American tribes and language groups, making it one of the most diverse states in the country in terms of indigenous cultures. Despite higher-than-average wages, low poverty level, and a sparse population, violent crimes are surprisingly frequent. Drawbacks of living in Wisconsin. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. Residents are not required to pay either income tax or sales tax. The moist air from the ocean is forced upward by the mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the state. More Economy. Median rent price. 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 high school education is a basic prerequisite for most . I met a couple of decent people in Sitka. Washington State is abundant with stunning scenic beauty. In fact, over half of the land in Alaska is protected wilderness, ensuring that these beautiful landscapes will be preserved for generations to come. Cost of Living. 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. According to an estimate from the Alaska Department of Labor 61 fewer people are living in Alaska than there were last year. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. Pros and cons of living in Madison Wisconsin. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. The stress of living boils over into violence for some Alaskans. That is true because of the added transportation costs to move goods that far north. Bears are everywhere in Alaska, and they are not afraid to attack. With strict regulations on pollution and development, as well as a strong focus on conservation and sustainable resource management, Alaska takes its role as a steward of the environment very seriously. In Alaska, you will find an incredible amount of beauty. All of the best foreclosed homes for sale in Sitka are located in the following zip code areas on Foreclosure.com: 99835. Pros and cons of living in Madison Wisconsin. That means you are going to be doing a lot of blowing, shoveling, and plowing to keep your driveway and walkways clear. The cost of housing in particular is high in the state, with the average home price in Alaska being nearly twice the national average. There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. The states abundant natural resources, including oil, natural gas, seafood, and natural wonders are the main drivers of its economy. 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. Pros of Living in Alaska. You just learn to dress for the colder weather. 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. Scuba Certification; Private Scuba Lessons; Scuba Refresher for Certified Divers; Try Scuba Diving; Enriched Air Diver (Nitrox) Fairbanks is the home to 31,000 people. Yes, marijuana is legal in the state of Alaska. If you are considering residency in Alaska, you need to weigh both the pros and cons to determine if Alaska is right for you. The median values are higher for some bigger cities, such as Juneau and Anchorage, with prices averaging $364,000 and $303,000, respectively. The cost of groceries and health care are also higher in Alaska compared to the national average. Highways are paved in most areas, and the amount of traffic poses no problems for commuters. 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. It is considered the last hurrah for the residents before the end of summer. This is higher than the national median salary, which was $45,790 during the same time period. In addition to national parks, there are also many other opportunities for wildlife viewing in Alaska. Well Ive got news for you. This is the perfect place for snow sports including hiking, skiing . (The Sound is Better)Somebody asked me, what it was like living in Alaska? Activities that take place outside become a part of who you are. Alaska is one of only a handful of states that does not have a state income tax. Home ownership. Timber is another important resource in Alaska, with the states forests providing a source of wood for the construction and paper industries. For some families, that is enough incentive to make the move immediately. 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. As a result, many people end up living in small, crowded homes or temporary housing, such as trailers or cabins. Commercial fishing is another occupation that many households practice in the state. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! 18 Living in Alaska Pros and Cons. Crime is a big issue in Wasilla, which has a population of 9,675. Looking to fill those lungs with some fresh, clean air? Alaska will never rank high from a culinary perspective, but there are a few quality meals to be found. Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. The lack of light is due to its far northern location, and that also means it gets very cold: 3. 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. McKinley, which is the tallest mountain in North America at 20,320 feet. Alaska is also a state of mountains. That is due to the higher cost of transportation and the isolation factor of the state. This expense is one of the most significant costs that you will face as a household if you decide to move here. So, if you order clothes, electronics, or any other items, it may take forever to get them. 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. Alaska is a beautiful and unspoiled state but a difficult place to live. The Natural Splendor. There is a reason almost every car in Alaska, old or new, has a dent! As of the latest estimates from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Alaska is 731,545. Learn what it's like to live in Sitka, Alaska including the climate, cost of living, community, job opportunities, crime statistics, and more. This can be a difficult adjustment for newcomers living in Alaska. Answer (1 of 3): Sitka, is a small town, on an island, in southeast Alaska. Illinois is prone to natural disasters. Required fields are marked *. Pro: Natural beauty is not in short supply. Even the sidewalks can be dangerous after a snowfall. That never happened, but it is an interesting part of U.S. history that isnt always taught in history class. One common misconception about SAD is that it only affects people who live in cold climates. However, depending on where you're moving from, Anchorage might offer a lower cost of living. In Alaska, the sense of community is strong. 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. Residents of urban areas may struggle with their mental health. Then the next largest community is Wasilla, with just 10,000 residents. Higher taxes. In the USA, almost any business in all fields exists. The average amount of the dividend check is around $1,600, although the actual amount can vary from year to year depending on the performance of the fund. 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