The most popular destination for Alaskans moving out of the state is California, attracting over 5,000 residents in 2019. Florida, Texas, Washington, and Nevada also rank highly as preferred relocation spots.

California

As the trend goes, Alaskans seem to love the sunny side of life. In 2019, California topped the list as the most popular destination for Alaskans looking to move with a moving company. This shouldn't come as a surprise considering the stark contrast in weather and lifestyle between moving to Alaska and California.

California attracted a total of 5,064 Alaskans, making up a significant 10.10% of all outbound movers from Alaska. That's quite a number! It's clear that the Golden State's sunny beaches, vibrant cities, and thriving job market have a strong pull for Alaskans.

To put things in perspective, let's break down why California might be such an appealing choice for Alaskans:

• Climate Change: We're not talking about global warming here! The shift from Alaska's cold, harsh winters to California's mild, sunny climate is a huge draw. It's hard to resist the allure of year-round sunshine and warm temperatures.

• Job Opportunities: California is known for its robust economy. The state is home to numerous industries, including technology, entertainment, and agriculture, offering a wide range of job opportunities.

• Lifestyle and Culture: California offers a diverse and vibrant lifestyle. From the laid-back beach towns to the bustling city life of places like Los Angeles and San Francisco, there's something for everyone.

However, it's important to remember that moving from Alaska to California isn't just about chasing the sun. There are also a plethora of benefits that come with staying in Alaska. For instance, the state offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, less congestion on the roads, reduced commute times, cleaner air, and spectacular natural scenery often comparable to international landscapes like Norway or New Zealand.

Anchorage, Alaska, stands out as a global logistical hub, offering short waits for services such as citizenship processes. It's a city that boasts a high rate of cross-cultural marriage, over 110 primary languages in the Anchorage School District, and a strong community ethos that prioritizes helping and standing together in times of need. Furthermore, Alaska's long summer days and short winter days offer a unique experience that can affect sleep patterns and mood in an interesting way.

Despite the many benefits of living in Alaska, the high cost of living in California has been a significant motivator for people looking to move. Yet, moving to Alaska comes with benefits such as avoiding heavy traffic, enjoying spectacular scenery, and experiencing a diverse cultural environment.

Urban amenities in Alaska, similar to other states, include nationwide chain grocery stores, car dealerships, pet stores, restaurants ranging from 5-star to fast food, home improvement stores, movie theaters, and live theater. This dispels the myth that moving from urban areas in California to Alaska necessarily means living without urban necessities. The move to Alaska from California could be for a better quality of life, driven by personal and work-related values. One might sell their possessions, hire a reputable moving company, move to major cities like Anchorage, Juneau, or Fairbanks, find employment, and integrate into the community while avoiding drugs, crime, or excessive alcohol consumption source.

The discussions involve Californians moving to Alaska, noting a perception of increasing political conservatism due to arrivals from other states, including California. The Matanuska Susitna area, Wasilla, Palmer, and Anchorage are specific locations mentioned for this influx. Observations include changes in local dynamics, such as newcomers disregarding local customs and involving themselves in local politics, often with a focus on issues like taxes and state of infrastructure source.

It's important to note that while California offers many benefits, it also has its challenges like high cost of living and heavy traffic. But, it seems that for many Alaskans, the positives far outweigh the negatives.

Florida

So, you're probably wondering, "Where else are Alaskans heading to?" Well, the Sunshine State is a hot spot! Florida, known for its tropical climate and beautiful beaches, is the second most popular destination. In fact, nearly 4,906 Alaskans have relocated there.

Why Florida, you ask? There are quite a few reasons:

• Climate: The warm, tropical climate is a stark contrast to Alaska's cold, harsh winters. It's a welcome change, especially for those who aren't fans of the cold. In addition, Florida does not have the threats of earthquakes and avalanches that are present in Alaska.
• Outdoor Activities: Florida offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities like boating, golfing, and fishing, which could be appealing to Alaskans who are used to an active lifestyle. Unlike Alaska, Florida does not have wildlife like bears which can sometimes pose a threat to outdoor enthusiasts.
• Retirement: Florida is known to be a favorite among retirees. The relaxed lifestyle, combined with no state income tax, makes it an attractive destination for those looking to enjoy their golden years.

It's also worth noting that some Alaskans move because of past connections to the state of Florida or for economic and job opportunities. There are accounts of families moving due to previous stationing at certain locations and the desire to re-establish community ties. The move can involve significant logistical efforts, but the change in scenery and lifestyle can be worth it for many.

Interestingly, Florida itself also sees a significant outflow of residents. In 2021, nearly 470,000 Floridians relocated to other states, with notable outflows due to various reasons including hurricanes and storm damages. The top destination for these ex-Floridians was Georgia, seeing a population increase of +58,201, followed by North Carolina and Texas, drawing 37,071 and 31,023 respectively. Other states that saw significant inward migration from Florida include California, New York, Alabama, Tennessee, Virginia, Colorado, and Pennsylvania. On the other hand, states like South Dakota, Vermont, and North Dakota registered the lowest numbers of Floridian relocations source.

So, it seems that the allure of sunny skies, sandy beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle is enough to draw Alaskans away from their icy homeland. Florida offers a complete change of scenery and lifestyle, and it's clear that it's a change many Alaskans are willing to make.

For those considering a similar move, remember that every state has its unique pros and cons. Whether it's the cooler temperatures, mountainous terrains, and less crowded living conditions of Alaska, or the tropical climate, wide range of outdoor activities, and appealing retirement benefits of Florida, it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you. Here are some insights from individuals who have experienced the move from Alaska to Florida, and here are some thoughts from those who have done the opposite.

Texas

So, you might be wondering, "Where else are Alaskans moving to?" Well, the Lone Star State, Texas, is another popular destination. In 2019, it ranked third on the list with a whopping 4,622 Alaskans deciding to make the move.

Now, you might be thinking, "Texas? Really?" It seems like a big jump from the cool, rugged wilderness of Alaska to the hot, flat plains of Texas. But when you think about it, it makes sense.

Texas is known for its warm weather, low cost of living, and booming job market - all very enticing features for anyone looking to relocate. Plus, it's home to some of the most dynamic cities in the U.S., like Austin, Dallas, and Houston, each offering a unique blend of culture, food, and entertainment.

Here's a quick breakdown on why Texas might be appealing to Alaskans:

• Warm Weather: If you're tired of long, harsh winters, Texas might be the place for you. The state enjoys mild winters and has plenty of sunshine year-round.
• Cost of Living: Compared to many other states, Texas is relatively affordable. Housing, in particular, tends to be cheaper than the national average. This is quite a contrast to the high cost of living in Alaska's cities like Anchorage, which can be compared to those in Austin, Seattle, and Portland, largely due to factors like permafrost affecting land development and the importation of goods.
• Job Opportunities: Texas has a diverse economy with opportunities in sectors like technology, healthcare, and energy. The state's unemployment rate is also typically lower than the national average. This could be a draw for Alaskans, given the scarcity of general employment in Alaska without specific qualifications.

So, it's no wonder that Texas has become a hot spot for Alaskans looking to start a new chapter in their lives.

However, it's important to note that moving trends are dynamic and can change over time. Between April 2020 and July 2022, Texas' population increased by over 884,000, with a significant portion of this growth coming from interstate migration. In 2021, nearly 591,400 Americans moved to Texas, but over 447,000 Texans moved to other parts of the country, with the largest reasons being job-related (43.4%). The top five states Texans moved to were California, Colorado, Florida, Oklahoma, and Georgia, mainly due to better job markets. This shows that while Texas is an appealing destination for many, it's not the only state attracting people looking for new opportunities 🔗 🔗.

But it's also worth noting that many Alaskans still love their home state, despite its challenges. They're drawn to Alaska's unparalleled natural beauty, the unique vibe of cities like Anchorage and the welcoming nature of its people. Communities like Fairbanks, Juneau, and Palmer are known for their hardworking and welcoming people, making Alaska a great place to raise a family.

So, whether you're considering a move to Texas or contemplating staying in Alaska, it's clear that both places have a lot to offer.

Washington

So, let's talk about Washington. In 2019, this state became a new home for a whopping 4,255 Alaskans. That's quite a lot, right? But why Washington, you might ask? Well, there are several potential reasons:

• Proximity: Washington is relatively close to Alaska, at least compared to other mainland U.S. states. This makes the move less daunting and allows for easier trips back to Alaska if needed. This is particularly convenient for Alaskans who cannot fly or cross Canada by highway due to legal restrictions, as the Alaska Marine Highway from Bellingham, Washington, offers a great transport option. In fact, Seattle's King County is the most popular destination for migrating Alaskans, with 182 individuals moving per 100,000 adults, significantly more than any other state source.

• Climate: While Washington's weather is not exactly the same as Alaska's, it does have a similar climate, especially in the western part of the state. This makes it a comfortable choice for Alaskans.

• Job Opportunities: Washington, especially in areas around Seattle, offers a lot of job opportunities in various sectors such as technology, aerospace, and healthcare. This could be a significant pull factor for Alaskans who are looking to find jobs in resource extraction industries with fewer regulations, just like in Alaska.

• Outdoor Activities: Just like Alaska, Washington is known for its beautiful outdoor spaces. From the Cascade Mountains to the Pacific coastline, there's plenty for nature-loving Alaskans to enjoy, mirroring the scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and real winters they are used to in Alaska.

These factors combined make Washington an attractive destination for Alaskans looking to relocate. The availability of inexpensive land outside of Anchorage and southeastern cities, the community spirit, quality education, religious diversity, and low crime rate in Alaska make the transition to Washington smoother and more appealing.

When it comes to other factors like cost of living, the median home value in Alaska is 39% below Washington and 2% above the national average source. The median household income in Alaska is 3% below Washington and 15% above the national average. Although the unemployment rate in Alaska is 20% more than the national average, Washington is on par with it, offering a similar economic environment for Alaskans. The homeownership rate in Alaska is 1% above, while Washington is 2% below the national rate, making it a potentially appealing destination for those looking to purchase a home. The average school rating in both Alaska and Washington is 10, indicating a comparable quality of education for families with children.

In conclusion, while Alaska offers a unique living experience, Washington provides a blend of familiar and new opportunities, making it a popular choice for Alaskans looking to relocate.

Nevada

It's interesting to note that Nevada, known for its desert landscapes and vibrant nightlife, ranked as the fifth most popular destination for Alaskans in 2019. A total of 2,850 Alaskans decided to trade in their snow boots for sandals and made the move to the Silver State.

But why Nevada, you might ask? Well, there are a number of reasons that could explain this trend:

• Climate Change: The extreme cold of Alaska can be challenging for some, and the warmer, drier climate of Nevada presents a stark contrast.
• Job Opportunities: Nevada's economy is growing, with job opportunities in various sectors including hospitality, mining, and logistics. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Nevada was $58,646 in 2019, indicating a thriving economy that could offer promising job prospects for Alaskans.
• Lower Cost of Living: Compared to Alaska, Nevada generally has a lower cost of living, which can make it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their dollars further. For example, in 2019, the median value of owner-occupied housing units in Nevada was $273,100, significantly lower than Alaska's $281,200 as per the U.S. Census Bureau.
• No State Income Tax: Like Alaska, Nevada doesn't have a state income tax, which can be a significant financial incentive.

In a nutshell, the move from Alaska to Nevada might be quite a climate shock, but the potential benefits such as job opportunities and lower living costs are clearly appealing to many Alaskans.

When it comes to the logistics of the move, it's worth noting that individuals moving from Alaska to the Lower 48 have several options. Some choose to drive their vehicles via the AlCan, a highway that stretches from Alaska to the contiguous United States, and pack them fully to save money. This is an especially viable option for those whose destination is accessible by road. Others opt to use a service that trucks or barges items to the Lower 48, although this can be a more costly and time-consuming choice, with costs around $750 per linear foot and an 8-week delivery time. Alternatively, some people buy a cargo trailer to transport belongings, which they can then sell after the move. This can be a cost-effective choice, but it does require a vehicle capable of towing.

Once in Alaska, new residents often find the state's vastness and low population density striking. With fewer than 1 million residents spread over the state, long-distance travel, such as driving 2 hours for shopping, is commonplace. Alaska's unique features, such as its higher per capita ownership of private planes than any other region globally and its natural phenomena like milk chocolate rivers resulting from snowmelt and soil erosion, often come as a surprise to newcomers.