10 Pros and Cons of Living in Alaska

Living in Alaska is a truly unique and amazing experience, unlike anywhere else in the United States. This vast, rugged state offers residents an unparalleled connection to nature, with stunning landscapes that range from towering mountain ranges to pristine coastlines. But living in Alaska isn’t just about admiring its breathtaking beauty; it’s also about embracing its challenges and the lifestyle that comes with it. Whether you’re buying a home in Fairbanks or renting an apartment in Anchorage, read on to learn if Alaska is a good place to live.

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Quick Facts about Alaska

Population
733,391

Median home sale price
$388,900

Average rent in Alaska
$1,399

Largest cities in Alaska
Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau

1. Pro: Outdoor recreation

Alaska’s reputation as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts is legendary, making it a significant pro for those who choose to live here. Whether hiking through the rugged trails of Denali National Park, kayaking among glaciers in Kenai Fjords National Park, or embarking on thrilling fishing expeditions in the abundant waters, Alaska is a paradise for adventurers. 

2. Con: Midnight sun and polar nights

During the summer, the midnight sun blankets certain regions in perpetual daylight, where the sun doesn’t set for extended periods. While this offers ample outdoor activities and exploration time, it can disrupt sleep patterns. Conversely, in the depths of winter, Alaska encounters polar nights, where the sun remains below the horizon for extended periods, plunging the landscape into darkness. This lack of sunlight can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in some individuals, affecting their mood and overall well-being.

3. Pro: Beautiful wildlife

Alaska’s unique wildlife is another compelling reason living in the state is a distinctive and remarkable experience. Residents share their habitat here with various majestic creatures, including grizzly and black bears, moose, bald eagles, and orcas. The annual salmon runs draw grizzlies to the rivers, allowing residents to witness these powerful animals in their natural element. Meanwhile, the state’s coastal regions are a paradise for marine life enthusiasts, as they provide opportunities to spot humpback whales breaching and sea otters floating serenely on their backs.

4. Con: Harsh weather

Alaska’s reputation for harsh weather is well-earned, and it’s a defining aspect of life in the state. Winters in Alaska can be particularly unforgiving, with extremely cold temperatures that can plummet below freezing. Snowfall is abundant in many regions, leading to challenging driving conditions and requiring residents to adapt to winter weather demands. The long, dark winters can also be mentally and emotionally challenging as daylight hours become significantly shorter, particularly in northern areas. Additionally, severe storms, high winds, and freezing rain can disrupt daily life and pose safety risks.

5. Pro: Natural beauty

The Last Frontier has an astonishing diversity of landscapes. Each offers breathtaking sights, from the towering peaks of the Alaska Range to the calving glaciers of Glacier Bay National Park. Residents are privileged to witness the kaleidoscope of colors during the fall foliage, the mesmerizing midnight sun during summer, and the ethereal beauty of the ice-covered landscapes in winter. 

6. Con: Isolated and remote towns

Many small towns in Alaska embrace a sense of isolation and remoteness, which can be both a pro and a con, depending on one’s perspective. While the state’s vast wilderness and untouched landscapes are part of its allure, they also come with the challenge of limited accessibility. Many communities in Alaska are not connected by road, relying on air or water travel for transportation. This remoteness can lead to higher transportation expenses, longer travel times, and difficulty accessing goods and services. 

7. Pro: No state income tax

One of the distinct financial advantages of living in Alaska is the absence of a state income tax. This financial relief can be especially significant for individuals and families, allowing them to allocate their income toward savings, investments, or pursuing personal goals. Without the burden of state income tax, Alaskans can enjoy greater financial flexibility and potentially achieve a higher standard of living while benefiting from the state’s unique advantages, such as natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

8. Con: High cost of living

The high cost of living is a notable downside of residing in Alaska. While the state’s natural beauty and unique experiences are unparalleled, they come with a price tag. The cost of living in Juneau is 28% higher than the national average, along with many other cities like Fairbanks where the cost of living is 24% higher. Groceries, utilities, and transportation costs are also more expensive due to the state’s remote location and the need to import many goods. Additionally, the cost of heating homes during the harsh winters can be substantial. These combined factors can strain household budgets, so exploring affordable places to live in Alaska is a good place to start if you’re moving to the state.

9. Pro: Fresh and local seafood

Living in Alaska provides a culinary delight unmatched in many parts of the world: easy access to fresh and local seafood. Alaska is a seafood lover’s paradise with its extensive coastline and pristine waters. Residents can indulge in some of the newest and most sustainably sourced seafood, whether succulent king crab legs, sweet Alaskan salmon, or delectable halibut. 

10. Con: Swarms of mosquitoes

One of the notable challenges of living in Alaska, particularly during the summer months, is contending with swarms of mosquitoes. These relentless insects thrive in the state’s wetlands and forests, making outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and fishing, a frustrating experience. Alaska’s mosquito season can be intense, with some areas experiencing clouds of these bloodthirsty pests. Residents often rely on insect repellents, protective clothing, and screened-in spaces to avoid mosquito bites.

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