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 city is the fourth most dangerous place to live in Alaska. That means your tax burden is potentially higher than what it would be in some other states. Education Another issue is the lack of available land for development. Alaska was once thought of as a folly. And, finally, if you decide to make Alaska your permanent home, you'll soon be eligible for the Permanent Fund Dividend payout, which was $1,114 in 2021. The first $150,000 of the assessed value of a home are exempt from property taxes for all residents 65+. For those who live outside of this metroplex, the only option tends to be heating oil, which is much more expensive. Low cancer incidence rate. Some argue that a sales tax could provide a stable source of revenue for the state and help to fund important government services. Instead, it relies on other sources of revenue, such as taxes on oil and natural gas production, to fund state government services. Because of the risk of contamination and sickness, prepare to filter or treat the water if necessary. Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. The best cities in Alaska depend on individual preferences and priorities. The average population per 1 square mile is 6.86. Alaska is a vast and very remote state with many communities being extremely isolated from the rest of the country. Only California and Hawaii residents will pay more for their fueling needs. Benefits of living in Wisconsin. 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 oil and gas industry in Alaska generated over $11 billion in economic activity, supporting over 33,000 jobs. Because Alaska does not have an income tax, the state earns its revenues through a tax burden placed on businesses. You must become a business if you want to be self-employed. You are looking at $400 to $1200 a month for electricity. Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. Cost of Living. I met a couple of decent people in Sitka. The city of Ketchikan, in particular, is known for its high levels of rainfall, with an average of over 150 inches per year. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. This limits the ability of developers to build new housing units and contributes to the overall shortage of affordable options. 7. Despite its reputation for cold weather and snow, Alaska is actually one of the rainiest states in the United States. Every day is casual Friday in this state. 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. Even when the winter months come around, this attitude doesnt change. Also you get a check just for living in Alaska. Because there is plenty of sunshine deep into the night during the summer months, you will discover more opportunities to explore trails, kayak in bays, and embrace the explore waiting within. The Natural Splendor. Usually, once people settle here, they want to remain. Prince William Sound experienced a 9.2 quake in March of that year. In the summer, the days are long and the wildflowers are in bloom, creating a colorful tapestry across the landscape. The state experiences powerful volcanic eruptions time and time again, including the most powerful of the 20thcentury at the Novarupta Volcano. If you decide to make your home around Anchorage when you move to Alaska, then the weather will feel somewhat temperate. 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. They are really an issue only from the second week in June to the last week in July. Additionally, the states harsh weather and isolated location can be difficult for some people to adjust to, particularly those who are used to living in warmer and more urban environments. 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,. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. The industry also contributed over $2.2 billion in state and local tax revenue (talk about a vice grip). 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 low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. 3. The constant buzzing and biting can be annoying, and in some cases, mosquitoes can even transmit diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria. Daylight is nonexistent in the northernmost regions for months at a time, which creates a physiological shift in disposition and mood. In this article Ill cover the pros and cons of living in Alaska based on my own personal experience. View Full Report Card. Well, considering the fact that I've only lived here for 10 months and most of tha. Crime is a big issue in Wasilla, which has a population of 9,675. Moving to an apartment is a great if: You're looking to downsize. This can make it difficult to access basic services and amenities, such as medical care and grocery stores. Alaska does not have a state income tax or a state sales tax, which can help to offset the high cost of living. Visitors can also go birdwatching in the states many wetlands and forests, or take a trip to see the Northern Lights. Sitka is in Sitka Borough. While Alaska has diverse geographical regions with different climates, Alaska is known for its long nights and winters no matter where you go. 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. Bears are everywhere in Alaska, and they are not afraid to attack. Exploring the wild forests, paddling a kayak through the crystal-clear waters, and taking a deep breath of the clean, fresh air, Alaska is a place where you can truly be free. 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. This can make fresh fruits and vegetables more expensive and less readily available than in other parts of the country. Have you ever heard about the rumor that the government will pay you to live in Alaska? Here are some tips to help repel the mosquito. You will also need to consider the cost of the trip before deciding to travel. Some of this number leave and move elsewhere, but many return to Alaska. Overall, the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so its important to be prepared for a range of conditions when visiting the state. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. 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. 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. Artists cannot drive their tour buses to Alaska without going through Canada, and flying can be too expensive. The lack of available housing in Alaska, particularly in rural areas, can make it difficult for residents to find a place to live. Wild horses couldn't drag me back here. Sitka jobs have decreased by 0.1%. Pro: Natural beauty is not in short supply. The expanse of wilderness and miles of coastline provide the ideal means for fabulous meat and fish meals. Ignore the cold while having a good soak in many of the natural hot springs in Alaska. That is how Alaska got the name Land of the Midnight Sun.. Fishing is also an option in the states rivers and streams. Commercial fishing is another occupation that many households practice in the state. A high school education is a basic prerequisite for most . As a resident of Alaska, you get to experience the renowned Alaska State Fair, which is one of the best in the country. 12. 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. When you move further north in the state, thats when the cold really becomes an issue. 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. 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. They are more plentiful than you may expect. The vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. It is important to note that costs are higher in Alaska because of transportation and its isolation. The state earns its revenues through a tax burden on businesses, as Alaska does not have an income tax. Every year, residents of Alaska receive a dividend check from the Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC). There are numerous job opportunities available in Alaska right now. The larger cities tend to lean more liberal and the rural areas are conservative. Top Reasons To Live In Sitka, AK In 2022. Venture to Alaska if you want to see the Aurora Borealis. Copyright © 2023 Embrace Someplace | Privacy Policy | As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Looking to move to Alaska to save on taxes? Alaska is one of only a handful of states that does not have a state income tax. Moving to Alaska can be a bit SAD (were talking Seasonal Affective Disorder), 5. The outdoors is a huge part of Alaskan life: 2. Cost of Living in Alaska. Residents are not required to pay either income tax or sales tax. Find flights to Kaua'i from $360. One of the most interesting things to do in Sitka for families, solo travelers, and kids is to check out the New Archangel Dancers. Required fields are marked *. 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. You can embrace the life, or you can try to fight the elements. There are clearly many advantages of living in the city. Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, was almost 300,000 people calling at their home. Not many states are as beautiful as Alaska. Alaska has 35 species of mosquito, and all but a few will bite humans. 8. Alaska ranks high as one of the most popular cruising destinations in the world. Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016, Colorado Vs. California (Whats The Difference? Outdoor activities are literally endless for the adventure-seeking individual. While Alaska has many incredible natural wonders, they are not always easy to get to. As a result, food prices can be quite high. 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. is 6.0%). About the moving to Alaska pros and cons. Maybe living in Alaska is your pace. They love the friendly people, wide-open spaces, mountains, sky, and sea, which they find captivating. Keep in mind that these opinions are based merely on my own time here and others may have other experiences. 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