Living in Alaska: A Reality Check on Money, Resources, and Community
The Privilege of Anchorage
I moved to Alaska in 2018, eager to explore the 49th state. After a year of living in Anchorage, I realized that my experience was vastly different from those living in rural Alaska. Anchorage, with its two Targets, two Costcos, and numerous grocery stores, offers a level of convenience and affordability that is hard to find elsewhere in the state.
The Harsh Realities of Rural Alaska
Outside of Anchorage, many Alaskans rely on hunting, fishing, farming, and wild berry picking to supplement their grocery hauls. Small stores, often no larger than a 7-11, provide basic essentials, but at a steep cost. The shipping cost to and within Alaska increases the price of goods, making basics like milk, bread, and formula unaffordable for many rural residents.
Limited Access to Education and Job Opportunities
Rural areas often lack access to education and sustainable middle-to-high paying jobs. While the oil and mining industry offers some opportunities, these jobs are often high-risk, male-dominated, and do not provide sustained income for employees.
The Reality of Living in Remote Areas
I experienced the harsh realities of rural Alaska firsthand when I visited Cordova, a town with a population of over 2,000 residents. The local grocery store was a far cry from the supermarkets I was used to, with bulk pack items from Costco displayed on mismatched shelves. A simple purchase of puffed Cheetos and a Sprite cost an alarming $10.
The Cost of Convenience
The cost of convenience food is particularly striking in rural Alaska. A box of cookies can cost $18, making it a luxury few can afford. I learned that food deserts are a harsh reality in Alaska, where fresh produce is often unavailable or unaffordable.
What I Learned from Rural Alaskans
My experiences taught me several valuable lessons. Firstly, traditional personal finance advice doesn’t apply in rural Alaska, where seasonal work and subsistence living make it difficult to quantify income. Secondly, it’s essential to start with what you have and use resources wisely, as buying new often means paying high shipping costs. Finally, community is crucial in rural Alaska, where people rely on each other for survival.
The Importance of Community
Alaskans are known for their warm hearts and willingness to help others. They will share their food, water, gas, and clothing, and welcome strangers into their homes. As an Alaskan, I’ve learned to repay kindness by being there for others, creating a sense of community that is essential to survival in this harsh but beautiful state.
Leave a Reply