There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. 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. The state earns its revenues through a tax burden on businesses, as Alaska does not have an income tax. While bear attacks always make the headlines, they are few compared to the number of people who die of exposure in the extreme cold. Activities that take place outside become a part of who you are. That's the big picture view. Oh, okay. The payment in 2017 was $1,100 per person. The cost of living in Juneau is higher than the national average. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. Living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. 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. But why is Alaska so rainy? Consider yourself as and adventurous sort that can forgo some creature comforts in return for epic natural bounty? Dog sleds remained an essential mode of transportation even after the Gold Rush era. Residents of urban areas may struggle with their mental health. Through its established Permanent Fund Dividend Program, Alaska will pay you to move there. The living index here is 107.8 which is much higher than the national average of 100. It gets a little better in February, but youre still only averaging 13. Education. However, depending on where you're moving from, Anchorage might offer a lower cost of living. Most accidental deaths are from residents who die while sleeping due to carbon monoxide poisoning from clogged chimneys or faulty heaters. 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 has 35 species of mosquito, and all but a few will bite humans. 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. While Alaska has many incredible natural wonders, they are not always easy to get to. Education Hello world! It ranks fifth for the lowest sales tax in the country but first in overall tax burden for companies. 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.. Well, considering the fact that I've only lived here for 10 months and most of tha. 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. People in urban environments are more likely to suffer from anxiety and mood disorders than people in other locations. meredith baxter father knows best; johnston high school football roster; eviction friendly apartments huntsville, al; thurgood marshall school of law 509; The result is your tax burden is potentially higher than it would be in some states. Low house ownership rate. The Weather. Living in Alaska pays dividends, literally, 8. If you are thinking about moving to Alaska then prepare to combat SAD. If you are a married couple with four children, then you received a $6,600 PFT payment. 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. Well, it's good the thieves that you don't believe in now know whose house to rob. Because food, other than the local food, needs to travel a great distance to get there, the prices are relatively high. That check can offer a nice boost to any retiree's budget. So, while the darkness in Alaska can be beautiful and magical at times, it can also be a real challenge. Health hazards. Some items rack up a 25 percent tax, a rate that is only topped by Hungary, which has a VAT of 27 percent. There are many features we have already discussed that draw people to this beautiful state. Heh, could be. The bad weather brings bad road conditions, and consequently bad drivers. During the average year, Anchorage sees over 30 inches of snow from January to March. The lack of available housing in Alaska, particularly in rural areas, can make it difficult for residents to find a place to live. Alaska is a state which deals with numerous earthquakes each year. polynesian running backs nfl diy arch trellis for vegetables pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska. Because Alaska does not have an income tax, the state earns its revenues through a tax burden placed on businesses. Homes in Alaska cost a little more than compared to the rest of the country. You enjoy living close to other people and don't mind occasional elevator small talk. Nice that you both are nurses, and people are nice to you, because they need nurses in Sitka. The biggest problem, however, is accessibility. Alaska ranks second to Wyoming for the highest rate of suicide in the country. The states abundant natural resources, including oil, natural gas, seafood, and natural wonders are the main drivers of its economy. You don't have a lot of stuff to store. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. The transportation network in Arkansas is extensive. As a resident of Alaska, you get to experience the renowned Alaska State Fair, which is one of the best in the country. We are passionate about home decor, design, and all things home related. 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. Its an adventure that exceeds some folks wildest dreams and drives other people out faster than you can say Ketchikan. People are going to take an individual approach to how they manage their time. 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. In recent years, there have been efforts to reconsider the lack of a state sales tax in Alaska. Those who move here will either stress out because they feel like no one is being responsible, or they will take a deep breath and embrace the relaxed attitude. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! Just remember, its not all doom and gloom (even though it might feel that way sometimes). You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. There are several positions that help to support the tourism industry in the state as well. Of the two million tourists to visit the state each year, more than half will arrive by ship. A significant portion of the state is covered in snow and ice, creating difficult living conditions. Even the sidewalks can be dangerous after a snowfall. If you decide to move in or around Anchorage, the weather may feel somewhat temperate, but you will experience a shorter summer. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that is related to the changing seasons. Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. Ready to head to Americas Last Frontier? Because not all companies ship products to Alaska, obtaining the items you ordered can be a problem. Numerous communities in the northern half of the state experience sub-zero temperatures throughout the year. The median home price in Alaska is $337,222 which is well below the national average of 398,500. Engaging in cultural values and respecting Alaska Native heritage is fundamental to understanding Alaskas diversity. 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. Low cancer incidence rate. Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. The states natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and relatively low cost of living make it an appealing destination for retirees. Police cars are equipped with massive bumpers to fend off rude and unwelcome moose around highways or public areas. Alaska offers you plenty of small-town charm, even in the big cities. When determining what cities are good for your personality, life situation, and personal preferences, there are many factors to consider including climate, cost of living, community, job opportunities, population makeup, activities, and things to do. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. 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. This can make it difficult to access basic services and amenities, such as medical care and grocery stores. 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. 17 out of the 20 highest peaks in the United States are found here. If you love the chaos and bustling pace of New York, you will go stir crazy in Anchorage or Juneau. 2. When you move further north in the state, thats when the cold really becomes an issue. Benefits of living in Wisconsin. 5. 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. While judging the pros and cons of living in Illinois, you would have learned that the state is highly vulnerable to thunderstorms, lightning, floods, and tornadoes. That is unmatched. Hunting options include grouse, hare, mountain goat or brown bear, hunting in the rainforest region. Public Transport can be Confusing. List of the Pros of Living in Arkansas. 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. 7. Of the 365 million acres that make up the state of Alaska, only 160,000 of them have been developed. They are talking snobby by Alaska standards, which would probably translate to an average person anywhere else. Home ownership. Some of . Meeting start whenever the people involved feel like making them happen. The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour while Alaska's state law sets the minimum wage rate at $10.34 per hour in 2022. Economy largely dependent on resource extraction, Summary of the Pros & Cons of Living in Alaska, Lets Talk: 20 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Florida (+ Forum), 15 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Massachusetts, 15 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Chicago, Illinois. You can fish for trout, salmon, halibut, and crab. 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. And these things will have you thinking hard. The Alaskan highways overall road quality and their feeder routes are good, except for some summer road construction. Alaska is home to the four largest cities in the US by area. 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