Best Places to Live in Alaska
Are you thinking about moving to Alaska? Don’t know where to move? Well, the decision may indeed be difficult since Alaska is one of the largest states in terms of territory that spans over 633,300 square miles, so the choice is wide. What’s more, different areas in Alaska offer completely different living experiences and opportunities. And, if you cannot decide what place in Alaska to choose, don’t worry. We are here to help. Let us take you on a tour of Alaska’s five major regions and its most popular cities. Whichever are you choose, you won’t regret it, and Best Cross Country Movers are here to make your choice easier. So, let’s see which are the best places to live in Alaska and why. Explore this beautiful, picturesque country of extremes nicknamed “The Last Frontier.” Alaska offers something for everyone, so we are sure you’ll find your dream place here.
Get to know Alaska
Alaska is a state located in the Western United States and on the northwest of North America. It borders Canada, more precisely its province of British Columbia and Yukon, but also has a maritime border with Russia. Also, Alaska is the largest state in terms of territory, several times bigger than Texas, California, and Montana. What makes Alaska unique is its magnificent nature, a mixture of mountains and woods, which makes it quite a wilderness, but very appealing. However, Alaska has a lot more to offer than just beautiful scenery. While it offers incredible natural surroundings, you can also find many more attractions. When it comes to population, Alaska is the third least populous state. Most of its land is owned federally, including national parks and wildlife refuges. However, Alaska offers much for newcomers.
And, if Alaska is appealing enough for you to move there, hire best cross country movers in Alaska to take care of your relocation while you’re enjoying the magnificent scenery.
Five major regions in Alaska
There are five main regions in Alaska:
- Southcentral region of Alaska: here you’ll find the largest city of Alaska – Anchorage. Besides Anchorage, there are other popular towns, such as Girdwood, Homer, Kenai, Valdez, etc.
- Southeast Alaska: this part of Alaska is covered with islands and mountains. The area is mainly coastline, so the climate is milder than in the rest of Alaska. Popular towns here are Gustavus, Haines, Petersburg, etc.
- Southwest Alaska: the area is known for its incredible nature and wildlife. Here you can find rare animal species. Popular towns are Bethel, Kodiak Island, Dillingham, etc.
- Interior Alaska: this area is the most populous one. The most popular place in Interior Alaska is Fairbanks.
- Far North Alaska: it is considered to be an extreme end of the state for many reasons, the main reasons being the climate, darkness, and isolation. There are 66 days full of darkness in Utquiagvik. Popular towns are Fort Yukon, Nome, Kotzebue, etc.
Reasons to move to Alaska
Although Alaska is more appealing for tourists, it’s usually overlooked in terms of living. That is mainly due to the cold weather, snowy mountains, large forests, and impassable terrain. However, Alaska has a lot more to offer than just seeking adventure. Here are some of the reasons why Alaska is worth moving despite the cold climate:
- Beautiful scenery: the natural beauty of Alaska is breathtaking. From the snow-covered mountains to the volcanoes, Alaska offers splendid natural landscapes.
- Adventure: Although cold, Alaska offers many recreational opportunities such as hiking, rafting, exploring the caves, and other endless possibilities.
- Hunting and fishing: Alaska is famous for the best hunting and fishing opportunities in the world.
- Sunny summers: Alaska’s summers are mostly sunny with ideal temperatures. You can enjoy the longest day of nearly 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, Alaska, on June 21.
- Affordable housing: wherever you choose to live in Alaska, you’ll find affordable real estate prices.
- Alaska will pay you to relocate there: full-time residents receive a sum of money each year from Permanent Fund Dividend Program
- No income and sales tax: Alaska does not require its residents to pay income and sales taxes, only property ones.
If these reasons are enough for you to move to Alaska, you can do it with the help of the best cross country movers in Hawaii or any other U.S. country.
What are the best places to live in Alaska?
Now, after finding out more about Alaska and reasons to move there, you may wonder where to move? Here are the top five best places to live in Alaska:
- Anchorage
- Fairbanks
- Juneau
- Sitka
- Wasilla
Anchorage: a mixture of wild beauty and urban feel
The largest and most known city Anchorage is located outside the Chugach Mountains and surrounded by Kenai Fjords National Park. With a population of 300 000 people, Anchorage represents 40 percent of the state’s population. Although it’s one of the most populous cities in Alaska, Anchorage has a strong community vibe. When it comes to living conditions in Anchorage, the median listing price is $299. 000, and the average rental price is $1. 200. Also, Anchorage is one of the most tax-friendly cities in Alaska. If you are searching for a job, the most prosperous economic sectors are military, air cargo shipping, and tourism. So, if all these reasons make you feel like moving here, contact best cross country movers in Anchorage and move without any stress. And, if you need more reasons to move here, don’t worry. Anchorage has a lot more to offer.
Things to do in Anchorage
Besides excellent living conditions, there are many other reasons to love Anchorage. It has to offer plenty of outdoor activities, so let us show you some of the places that you can enjoy:
- Chugach State Park: perfect for hiking, camping, backpacking, biking, kayaking, or paragliding. Here you can see rare wildlife.
- The Coastal Trail: if you are into biking, you’ll enjoy 133 miles of bike paths, thus exploring the city.
- Fur Rondy Festival: a 12-day winter festival that leaves everyone speechless. Here, you can enjoy many activities, such as snow sculpturing, gaming, food, and many more. So, if you need to fulfill your time in winter, Fur Rondy would be an excellent solution.
- Enjoy food and beverage: Anchorage is the best place to try seafood and excellent coffee.
- Enjoy movie nights: To make winter nights shorter, go to Bear Tooth Theatrepub. Besides movies, you can also enjoy musical nights.
Confirmed that Anchorage is the best place to live in Alaska? Wait no more. Whichever country you are moving from, choose the best cross country movers in Washington or any other movers from our moving companies database.
Juneau: State’s Capital
Being the state’s capital Juneau is one of the best places to live in Alaska. Since the government sector is located here, you can easily find a job in the fields of tourism and fishing. Located in the panhandle of Alaska, Juneau has milder winters (by Alaskan standards), and the average temperature is about 22 degrees Celsius. Juneau has a population of 32 000, and the unemployment rate is very low. It’s about 4.6 percent, which makes it perfect for setting down. The median home income is about $88. 000 while the median home value is near $350. 000. High income is not the only thing why people move to Juneau. Actually, great school and healthcare systems are what make families choose Juneau for a home. So, if Alaska’s capital is your final choice, contact your best cross country movers in Juneau and arrange your relocation anytime.
Fairbanks: The Golden Heart City
The second-largest city in Alaska with a population of 33. 000, Fairbanks is located 300 miles inland from the coast and represents the heart of the state. That’s why it’s called The Golden Heart City. If you are a winter lover, then Fairbanks is the perfect match. It’s considered to be the coldest city in Alaska, much colder than previously mentioned Anchorage. So, if you move here, you’ll enjoy plenty of winter sports. Fairbanks is the number one place to live in Alaska. The median home value is about $199. 800, while the median household living is $55. 409. Also, Fairbanks is perfect for families with children since it’s the home to the best schools with a top-notch educational system. Besides, it’s home to the oldest university in Alaska, the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
Aurora borealis in Fairbanks
If you want to experience aurora borealis (polar lights), then Fairbanks is the place. Aurora borealis lasts from August and April. Also, Fairbanks has 24 hours of sunlight each day from mid-May through late June. So, if Fairbanks is your choice, then don’t wait any longer. Hire your best cross country movers in Fairbanks and move to this beautiful winter city in no time.
Best Places to live in Alaska: Sitka
Located on the west side of Baranof Island and surrounded by a series of islands, Sitka is only accessible by boat or plane, like many other places in Alaska. Like the capital Juneau, Sitka has a maritime climate and milder winters. Here, you can enjoy beautiful natural surroundings, and The Sitka National Park is a must place to visit. Besides the mild climate and beautiful scenery, Sitka is beautiful in terms of history. What makes Sitka so appealing to move to is the excellent school system and friendly community. When it comes to Sitka’s general life traits, here are some of the most important:
- Population: about 9. 000
- Median home value: $359. 000
- Unemployment rate: about 5%
- Crime rate: below the national average
Sitka is your choice? Move to this beautiful place with the best cross country movers in Sitka.
Best places to live in Alaska: Wasilla
Have a job in Anchorage but want to get away from its crowd? Then move to Wasilla since it’s easily commutable from Anchorage. However, unlike Anchorage, Wasilla is a lot warmer due to its mild climate and its inland position. When it comes to the average household income in Wasilla, it’s about $62. 000 if two family members have a job. Then, the average home price is about $300. 000. Also, in Wasilla, there are plenty of outdoor activities you can enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and camping. And, if you consider moving here, hire the best cross country movers in Wasilla to help you with the relocation.
Other best places to live in Alaska
Besides Anchorage, Fairbanks, Sitka, Wasilla, and the capital Juneau, there are many more beautiful places to live in Alaska. Here are some of them:
- Cordova: has the lowest poverty rate of about 2% which makes it a perfect place to find a job.
- Unalaska: the heart of the economy, with an employment rate of 1.9%. It is known for its strong fishing industry.
- North Pole: if you want to live near Fairbanks, then the city of North Pole is a good match. The unemployment rate is 6%, and almost all residents have health insurance.
- College: as its name suggests, College is home to The University of Alaska Fairbanks, so it’s perfect for students to move here.
- Kodiak: If you are into commercial fishing, then Kodiak should be your choice.
- Soldotna: if you want to find a job in Alaska, then Soldotna is a perfect fit. Almost everyone is employed here.
Move to Alaska with Best Cross Country Movers
Now that you know what are the best places to live in Alaska, there’s no reason not to move to this beautiful country. So, if you haven’t yet decided who to hire for your relocation, check the best cross country movers database and find a moving company that meets your requirements. There are plenty of companies to choose from, and whichever you choose, you won’t regret your decision. And, if you need help or some additional information when it comes to moving to Alaska we’ll answer all of your questions. Have a safe relocation and enjoy living in Alaska.