1. You’ll be paid to live here. Through the Permanent Fund Dividend Program (PFD), full-time residents of Alaska receive royalties every year from the Fund’s investment earnings. The size of the royalty varies in amount year to year, it can be anywhere from $800-$1,100. It was originally put in place to conserve a portion of the state’s revenue from mineral resources and to help benefit the future generations of Alaskans and to also attract new residents in as well. You can do with the money as you wish!
2. No State Income Tax. In fact, Alaska has some of the lowest taxes in the country! Residents do not have to pay state income tax and do not have to pay sales tax.
3. Alaska is beautiful. We are totally unbiased but Alaska may be one of America’s most beautiful states. The natural beauty here is like none other. Everything from snow-capped mountains, the ocean, unique wildlife, islands, rivers, lakes, the aurora borealis and more, makes it a jaw-dropping commute to work every day.
4. Far from a boring lifestyle. Alaska is wildly misunderstood by a lot of Americans. While it may be cold (and dark) in the wintertime, the amount of recreational opportunities is endless and the things you will be able to see with your own two eyes is incredible and something that a lot of people would only wish they could see or do. Alaska has it all - from whale watching, hiking (in some of the country’s prettiest National Parks), whitewater rafting, boating, fishing, hunting, flightseeing, skiing, snowboarding, and things that you may not have ever even known about because here in Alaska, life is unique.
5. Witness the Northern Lights. One of the best places to see Aurora Borealis! They are best seen between September and April and for even better and personal viewing, heading up north to Coldfoot in the Yukon Territory or Prudhoe Bay.
6. 24/7 summer sun. While yes, winter is very dark and very cold, Alaskans are awarded by having the most amazing summers. Ideal temperatures let you enjoy outdoor amenities and Alaska’s beauty until the sun goes down - past 10 pm! On June 21, the longest day of the year, Anchorage has nearly 19 hours of daylight!
7. Affordable & Available Real Estate. Since the overall cost of living in Alaska tends to be a little high since it is isolated from the rest of the country, real estate remains pretty affordable. Also not to mention, there is something for everyone here since there is plenty of real estate to go around. If you want to live remotely with few neighbors, there is land for you, if you want to live in a suburban type neighborhood, there is a place for you, or if you want to live in a downtown lifestyle, there is that for you too.
8. Culture. Alaska has its own culture and Alaskans take pride in our history. From summer solstice celebrations to winter season celebrations like Fur Rendezvous, there is always a reason to celebrate life and what it means to live in this beautiful state. Our unique lifestyles and dependence on outdoor activity and appreciation for the wildlife around us, Alaskans live a life, unlike many other Americans.