A new direction (Anchorage, Ketchikan, Kenai: for rent, closing, place to live)

[LittleJazzyP]

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[Frostnip]

I like the vibe in both Seward and Homer. Of course, I'm only familiar with them as a visitor, not as a resident. I think I'd get tired of tourists, though.

I think if I was going to move away from where I live now, my first choice would be Valdez, even with the weather.

[SityData]

I've lived & worked all over this entire state in many different places; but of all the places we have lived and resided in... My sons all say... Valdez was their favorite place by far.

[blackzzz01]

Originally Posted by LittleJazzyP

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I'll try it again Jazzy

[LittleJazzyP]

Nope. Problem could be on my end, though.

[AADAD]

As a fellow Miata owner like that makes sense I understand.

I would spend a week in Girdwood. It is in my viewpoint magical, close enough to Anchorage in case you miss it and a very special small and friendly place. Talkeetna would be my 2nd choice. Work in either area would be according to your skills and how resourceful you are. Every time and I mean every time I go either place I like them more. You won't need public transit except your two feet. Rents will be higher in Girdwood but it's the kinda place you can walk into the bookstore find a posting or ask anyone and find a deal.

zoom zoom

[Mollym313]

Originally Posted by NomadicBear

Move to Homer, then start a blog about all of your experiences, with thousands of pictures of the entire area, buildings included, so I can really get a feel for it.

Oh I like that...LOL I am eyeballing Kenai Peninsula for smaller towns, little less expensive living and that smaller community feel. If Homer doesn't work out...start a blog in the peninsula with details on jobs, housing etc. LOL

Geez that would make my quest easier. If you could arrange my move, that would be great too!

[Mollym313]

Originally Posted by SityData

I've lived & worked all over this entire state in many different places; but of all the places we have lived and resided in... My sons all say... Valdez was their favorite place by far.

What makes Valdez so special? It looks beautiful.

[wildchild_to]

I would think what line of work would you like to get into?
Looking for a little smaller city than anchorage with less people & crime?

[tigre79]

What do you do for a living, Jazzy? And are there specific things you're wanting to do more of that you're not able to in Anchorage, or is it more a feeling that you're missing out on some of the more interesting aspects of Alaska by living in the city?

I've been to Homer and Talkeetna for a couple days each, so I don't know much about them, but they both seem like they have a decent local art scene, good restaurants, breweries, bars, etc. On those counts they both win over Valdez. This is a grittier, blue-collar sort of town. It's pretty far out here, the weather is often challenging (yes the snow is awesome and hilarious, but it can also be quite destructive, time-consuming, and tiring to deal with), and there are a quite a lot of people who are only here for a paycheck. The rental market isn't great by any means, either. Those are the downsides. The upsides? It's an absolutely amazing place. You can go from a fjord on Prince William Sound to the alpine tundra of Thompson Pass in half an hour. There's a ridiculous diversity of outdoor opportunities, scenery, and wildlife here. And there aren't a whole lot of people to share it with. And maybe best of all, there are some really good jobs that will allow you to actually enjoy living here. There are some really great people here, too. If you're inclined to get involved in local groups and events, you'll find it to be a very welcoming place.

I think if I were you I'd also consider Seward. It has kind of similar geography, without being as far from everywhere else, a cute downtown area, and probably somewhat less crazy weather. Since you're already up here, you definitely need to at least take a weekend trip to the towns you're thinking about. Then start looking for jobs and see if that pushes you in one direction or another.