Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska & 10 Stunning Places

Living in Alaska has its pros and cons. The North Pole has become the synonym for Santa Claus, and one can easily imagine a place covered with snow and reindeer. But every coin has two sides, correct?

Alaska’s nickname is ‘the Last Frontier’ as it is far from the other states.

Alaska was once a Russian territory that became a part of the United States on October 18, 1867. Alaska was an abandoned land by the United States until the gold mines were discovered in 1896.

Alaska’s strategic importance came to light in World War II. Finally, it became the 49th state of the United States on January 3, 1959, and the largest State in America.

1. Pros of Living in Alaska

1.1. Nature’s Most Beautiful Craft

Alaska is beautiful from every angle; the snowcapped mountains, lakes, and rivers make it mesmerizing.

Alaska is picture-perfect with northern lights, wildlife, and nature’s beautiful craft. Moving to Alaska means living in the lap of nature.

1.2. Northern Lights

Watching Aurora Borealis almost every night is a blessing; these polar lights are awestruck and inspiring.

 1.3. Permanent Fund Dividend

Isn’t it marvelous if our state gives us its share as a stipend? Since 1980 Alaska has been started paying money out to its people. Investment earnings from Alaskan mineral royalties are paid out to Alaskans.

Alaska’s residents are eligible for the fund. One has to live in Alaska for at least one year to be eligible for the dividend.

1.4. Wildlife

Alaska is a habitat of fish and wildlife. Moose, polar bears, sheep, mountain goats, and many animals can be spotted here.

Alaska is one of the rarest places where one can go fishing and hunting the entire year for a living. One can do fishing and hunting despite any previous experience.

1.5. Favoring Business Concerns

Alaska’s online licensing procedures for startups are easy.

Plenty of small business loans are available for those who do business as a way of living; Alaska is the perfect place.

1.6. Job Opportunities

Many job opportunities are available now as the oil industry, and Natural Gas industries make job hunting easy here. Other job opportunities are commercial fishing, construction jobs, and healthcare.

1.7. Summer Beauty

Alaska’s summer is the state’s top highlight as numerous unbounded outdoor hobbies await in the summer.

1.8. Winter Months and Snowsports

Since Alaska is situated at the north pole, it is a chilly state.

Alaska is the perfect place for the kind of person who wants to enjoy winter’s real life. In winter, it offers tremendous snow sports. Skating, skiing, snow-skating, sledding, curling, broomball, and other ice sports are incredible.

1.9. Tax-Friendly

Alaska has no income or state sales taxes, and even the local taxes are meager. So, spending and investing are fair.

1.10. Community Mindset

Alaskans have a real sense of responsibility for their friends and neighbors, as the people here develop a strong bond among themselves.

Living in Alaska pros and cons – You may get a friend forever here, so choose the people you associate with cleverly.

2. Cons of Living in Alaska

2.1. High Cost of Living

Alaska is one of the highest-priced states in the US, and the high cost of living makes life difficult here.

It is mainly because of Alaska’s transportation difficulties; even fuel costs are higher here. So, before moving here, evaluate your budget first.

2.2. Unlighted Winters

The Winter climate is harsh, and unfortunately, in winter, one can rarely watch the Sun and daylight, and the snow removal is not pleasant.

2.3. Bear Attacks

America’s 95% bear population is in Alaska, and bear attacks and accidents due to moose are common.

2.4. Shipment Difficulty

It isn’t easy to move to Alaska. As you know by now, the nickname of Alaska is the Last Frontier because it takes days or even weeks to reach destinations.

2.5. Crime Rates

Alaska is also marked as one of the most dangerous cities in America. Comes as a shock.

Most crimes are due to excessive drug and alcohol consumption, so remember to stay safe.

2.6. Natural Disasters

Natural calamities often happen in Alaska; to bluntly put it, there is no way around it; it is just a con you will have to live with.

2.7. Unemployment Rate

The unemployment rate in Alaska is higher; this is because of Alaska’s seasonal jobs. Lots of jobs in Alaska happen only in summer, so look for permanent employment prior.

3. 10 Stunning Cities in Alaska

3.1. The Largest City – Anchorage

Anchorage is marked as one of the best cities in the United States to live in during the winter. Fishing and easy access to beer are some pros of going to Anchorage.

However, Anchorage is Alaska’s rude city also because of the people’s offensive behavior.

3.2. Juneau

The state capital is Juneau. It is the second-largest city in America, which is blessed with wildlife.

It is also the safest city in Alaska, where beaches are the other attraction.

3.3. Fairbanks

If you are into Aurora, Fairbanks is the place to be. Everything is here: sunset, sunrise, northern lights, and midnight sun. Hunting opportunities are also available.

3.4. Skagway – A Small-Town

The city of Skagway was once a small, unnoticed place. But the Gold Rush in 1896 changed the history of this city upside down.

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park can tell many more stories to its visitors.

3.5. Knik Fairview

Adventure sports are awaited here for adventurous lovers in this modern city.

3.6. Ketchikan

The three foremost attractions in Ketchikan are plucky salmons, jaw-dropping scenery, and rich culture. A must explore for sure!

3.7. Homer

Homer is nicknamed as ”end of the road.’‘ Seafood restaurants and beaches are the attractions to explore here.

3.8. Palmer

Palmer is Alaska’s vegetable city; this stunning valley fascinates visitors with its enchanting beauty.

3.9. Wasilla

Wasilla is the right place for pet lovers to explore.

3.10. Sitka

Sitka was Alaska’s first capital city. So put fishing, hiking, and its varied culture its visitors forwards.

Bottom Line: Living in Alaska

Alaska’s unpolluted air makes the energy level optimistic.

And as it goes, where there are assets, there are liabilities too. Keeping everything in mind, Alaska is a fantastic place to be. Have fun exploring!

Suggested Reads

4 Stunning Alaska Ice Caves : A Detailed Guide

19 Incredible Things To Do in Homer Alaska

Originally posted 2021-02-12 10:20:42.