Panning on moving to Alaska? Well, grab your parka and your sense of adventure because we’re about to dive into a comprehensive guide for moving to the pristine, awe-inspiring landscapes of Alaska.
You’ll find that this colossal American state not only takes the cake when it comes to unrivaled natural grandeur but also provides an array of experiences that you can’t find anywhere else.
Imagine trading in your car for a dog sled ride or sharing your backyard with some of the most impressive wildlife species on the planet. But, as you know, every paradise comes with its own challenges.
Moving to Alaska could indeed present a drastic lifestyle change, and it’s perfectly normal if you’re having second thoughts about whether this great Alaskan move is a match made in heaven for you.
Well, fret not! We’ve prepared a comprehensive list of 13 things to consider. It’s full of insider tips and expert advice, designed to help you make an informed decision about this potentially life-altering move.
This guide is designed to serve as your trusty companion, helping you navigate through the critical stages of your move, from pre-move preparations to the exciting post-move exploration.
Packing up your life and heading North to Alaska is no ordinary move. The first step? Enlist the help of a reliable moving company.
Think of them as your trusty sherpa guiding you up the mountain of this big move. Be it a truck rental or moving container, you want a service that will treat your belongings like precious cargo.
Remember, you’re entrusting them with that signed photo of Nicholas Cage. That deserves respect. When on your quest for the perfect moving company, don’t forget to snoop around their Google reviews.
Experience, high-quality customer service and a dash of professionalism is the recipe for moving success. After all, it’s a long way to Alaska, and you want your favorite armchair arriving in one piece!
Moving to Alaska doesn’t mean you’re entering the witness protection program; you’re still going to need your mail!
USPS’s mail forwarding service can help keep your letters flowing in the right direction. For a small fee, your mail can follow you like a faithful husky, right to your new Alaskan doorstep.
Setting up this service is as easy as chilling out and signing up online or at your local post office. It’s one less thing to worry about when you’re battling the elements in your new, cooler climate.
Moving to Alaska doesn’t just mean changing your address; it means swapping out your wardrobe too. Unless you fancy becoming an icicle, we recommend investing in some toasty winter clothes.
If you have summer clothes taking up precious luggage space, why not sell or donate them? Put them up on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, or donate them to a charitable organization. Trust us, your Hawaiian shirts will thank you for not subjecting them to Alaskan winters.
Congratulations, you’ve made it to Alaska! Your first step? Changing your address. It sounds simple, but it’s like trying to wrangle a wild Alaskan bear.
You’ll need to inform everyone from your bank, to your doctor, to your favorite magazine subscription service about your exciting new move. Don’t forget the Department of Public Safety; they’ll need your new address too. If you’re a registered voter, don’t forget to update your voter registration.
You wouldn’t want to miss your chance to vote for the next governor of Alaska! After all, who knows, maybe you’ll be voting for a new law to make dog sledding the official transport of Alaska!
So, you’re moving to Alaska, eh? First off, you need a place to hang your parka. There are plenty of online resources that’ll help you find the perfect apartment or house in the ‘Land of the Midnight Sun’.
Websites like Apartments.com, and Zillow are your best buddies in this endeavor. They’re like real estate Goldilocks, helping you find a home that’s just right! Just make sure you pick a place that’s bear-proof and comes with a great view of the Northern Lights.
Setting up utilities in Alaska is a walk in the icy park. Yes, the cost might be a bit higher than the national average, but hey, it’s a small price to pay for the breathtaking beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, right? For all your electricity, water, and gas needs, simply contact your local utility department.
They’ll guide you through the process like a trusty sled dog leading the way through the snow. For internet and cell phone services, you might need to resort to satellite internet, which ironically makes it a bit like living on the moon!
Bundling your internet with your cell phone provider can save you a few bucks to spend on more exciting things like an extra layer of thermal underwear or that fancy new snow blower.
Life in Alaska has its price, and we’re not talking about giving up your favorite beach sandals. Anchorage, for instance, costs an average of $2,030 per month for a couple to live comfortably. But don’t let that scare you off!
Remember, this price includes everything from housing and utilities to groceries, entertainment, and insurance. Besides, who needs a beach when you have the majestic, snow-covered mountains to look at, right?
Income and Expense Comparison for Canada and Alaska:
| Canada (CAD) | Alaska (USD) | |
|---|---|---|
| Average Income (monthly) | 3,900 | 4,290 |
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment, city center) | 1,200 | 1,150 |
| Utilities (monthly) | 150 | 200 |
| Groceries (monthly) | 350 | 400 |
| Transportation (monthly pass) | 100 | 60 |
| Entertainment (monthly) | 200 | 220 |
| Total Expenses | 2,000 | 2,030 |
When it comes to weather, Alaska likes to keep things interesting. It’s not all igloos and husky sleds, you know. Sure, it can get pretty chilly in winter, but it’s not always Santa’s backyard.
Summers can be pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging 40°. In autumn, you’ll need your jackets as temperatures fall between 18° and 40°.
Winters, of course, bring out the full-on snow globes with temperatures dropping between 0° and -40°. Spring, like a bear emerging from hibernation, brings a slow but sure return to warmer weather. So, you can pack that swimsuit after all – just remember to bring your snow boots too!
All right, you’re moving to Alaska, the land of mystery, cold weather, and, yes, shopping! Need a place to get your groceries? Well, Fred Meyer, and Red Apple Markets are eagerly waiting to fill your pantry. The shelves are packed with all the goodies you need to whip up a salmon feast worthy of an Alaskan potlatch.
Now, in case your online shopping carts haven’t already caught up, don’t worry, Alaska has the retail giants like Walmart and Target too. With these guys around, the polar vortex has nothing on you and your retail therapy sessions.
Craving a break from cooking? Alaska has your back! With a wide array of restaurants you’re sure to find something to tickle your taste buds. And yes, there’s a good chance you’ll find Moose on the menu!
So, you’re moving to Alaska and wondering what you can do for fun? How about standing in awe of the majestic grizzly bears, walking on ice glaciers, or being mesmerized by the dance of the Northern Lights?
Ever dreamed of being a musher in the Iditarod dog sled race? Well, here’s your chance! But don’t worry, you don’t have to be a tourist to enjoy these fantastic activities. Alaskan locals love them too!
Beyond the unique outdoor adventures, enjoy local craft beers and the culinary delights of Alaskan cuisine. Pop into the Alaska Museum of the North or take a hike on some of the most scenic trails in the world. Trust us, life in Alaska is never dull!
Before we wrap this up, let’s throw in some fun facts. After all, you’re moving to Alaska, and you’ve got to have some conversation starters ready, right?
So, did you know that the Northern Lights can be seen in most places in Alaska? That’s right, your personal light show, courtesy of Mother Nature. Oh, and Alaskan locals are no strangers to using dogs and sleds for transportation.
I mean, why drive when you can mush, right? And, if you love animals, you’re in for a treat. Remember, though, selfies with bears are not recommended!
One can’t talk about moving to Alaska without considering the job market, right? If you’re contemplating this move, you might be curious about the career opportunities that await.
Alaska is known for its thriving fishing, oil, and tourism industries, so if you fancy catching king crabs, working on an oil rig, or guiding tourists through a glacier, you’re in luck!
However, Alaska isn’t just about those rugged, outdoorsy jobs. There’s also a demand for professionals in healthcare, education, and technology. With its remote location, Alaska has a high need for telecommunication and remote service providers.
So if you’re a tech whizz or a healthcare professional, you might find yourself in high demand in the Last Frontier. After all, even in the wilds of Alaska, people need their Wi-Fi and medical checkups!
Whether you’re moving with a family or planning to start one in Alaska, it’s essential to consider the education system. Alaska offers unique opportunities for learning, both within the classroom and in its vast natural landscapes.
With several quality public and private schools, as well as the renowned University of Alaska system, educational opportunities are abundant.
But what makes education in Alaska stand out is the integration of the state’s rich cultural heritage and environment into the curriculum.
From learning about indigenous cultures to understanding the local ecosystems, students are offered an enriched learning experience that goes beyond textbooks.
Well, there you have it, folks! A complete rundown of the essential things to consider when you’re contemplating a move to Alaska.
This state offers an enticing blend of stunning landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and unique cultural experiences that are second to none. Still, it’s essential to make an informed decision about whether this type of lifestyle will suit you.
This guide has offered a comprehensive exploration into what life in Alaska could be like, from the mundane aspects of housing and utilities, the exhilarating thrill of dog mushing, to the awe-inspiring sight of the Northern Lights.
While Alaska may not be for everyone, those who choose to make the move often find themselves enriched by the unparalleled experiences and captivating sights this state offers.
So, whether you’re a single adventurer seeking new trails, a couple craving an Alaskan escapade, or a family wanting a safer place to grow, this northern wonderland could just be the next chapter in your life story.
As the Alaskans say, “North to the Future!” So, get ready to embrace the chill and welcome a future filled with stunning landscapes, thrilling experiences, and of course, a ton of fun facts about your new home!
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