Living in Anchorage, Alaska – Weighing the Pros and Cons of the City of Lights and Flowers
Discover the Pros and Cons of Living in Anchorage – Is the City of Lights and Flowers Right for You?
As per Royal Alaska Movers, we love Anchorage! Our love for the City of Lights and Flowers led us to make a list of 10 reasons why you might love it too. But we know that moving to Anchorage—or Alaska—might not be for everyone. To help you decide, we made a list of the pros and cons of living here. From the money you can save with low taxes to the high cost of living, tough weather, and crime, our guide shows what life is like in Anchorage so you can see if it’s the right place for you.
READ ALSO: 53.5 Murders Per 100,000: The Shocking Reality Of Petersburg’s Violent Crime Epidemic
(PHOTO: World Atlas)
Pro – Low Taxes
One great thing about living in Anchorage is the low taxes. Here, you don’t pay state income tax, and there’s no local sales tax. This means you get to keep more of your money compared to many other places in the U.S. Alaska has the lowest overall tax burden in the country, making it a good place for saving money. But, you might need those savings because of other high living costs.
Con – High Cost of Living
Living in Anchorage can be expensive. Alaska is the sixth most expensive state in the U.S. Most items, like food and fuel, are pricier because they have to be shipped in from far away. Electricity costs more too. Even though you save on taxes, you might spend more on everyday things, which can add up quickly.
Pro – The Permanent Fund Dividend
Alaska gives residents a yearly bonus called the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). After living in Alaska for a full year, you get a payout from the state’s oil money. The amount changes each year but provides a nice extra bit of cash. Many people use this bonus to visit family or cover other expenses.
Con – Expensive Travel Costs
Traveling from Anchorage to the lower 48 states can be costly. Plane tickets, rental cars, and hotels are all expensive, making trips to see friends and family a major budget item. This makes staying connected with loved ones outside Alaska harder and more expensive.
Pro – Diverse Shopping Options
Anchorage offers the best shopping in Alaska, with many well-known stores and unique local shops. You can find big names like Walmart and Home Depot and enjoy local markets like the Anchorage Market. However, if you’re used to the variety in larger cities, you might find the shopping options here more limited.
Con – Shipping Limitations
Ordering online can be tricky in Anchorage. Many stores don’t ship to Alaska, or they charge extra fees. You might find that shipping costs more than the items you’re buying, or that deliveries take a long time. Finding stores that ship to Alaska without high costs can be challenging.
Pro – Rich Cultural Diversity
Anchorage is culturally diverse, especially with a large Alaska Native population. Many people from different backgrounds live here, and over 100 languages are spoken in local schools. This diversity makes Anchorage a rich and interesting place to live, with many cultural experiences to explore.
Con – Extreme Weather Conditions
The weather in Anchorage can be tough. Winters are long, dark, and very cold, while summers have almost 24 hours of daylight. The extreme cold in winter and endless sunlight in summer can be hard to get used to, making it difficult for some people to adjust to life here.
Pro – Personal Freedom
Alaska is known for valuing personal freedom, especially around gun rights. In Anchorage, you can own and carry guns without many restrictions. Many people enjoy living with fewer government rules and having the freedom to live independently.
Con – High Crime Rate
Anchorage has a high crime rate compared to other places in the U.S. Residents have a higher chance of being affected by crime. It’s important to stay aware and take precautions to stay safe in the city.
Pro – Access to Natural Beauty
Anchorage is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You’re close to five national parks and lots of outdoor activities. If you love nature, Anchorage offers easy access to hiking, fishing, and exploring the wilderness, making it a perfect place for outdoor adventures.
READ ALSO: Washington D.C. Sees Two-Month Decline In Crime Rates, Residents Remain Cautious – Homicides Down By 31%, Violent Crimes Decrease By 10% Yearly
