Aging demographic of SE Alaska (Ketchikan, Gateway: real estate, 2014, houses)

[Arktikos]

A recent editorial from Ketchikan. So, what's up-are we becoming a retirement community?

"The region is large, while its communities are small and dispersed. Despite the potential difficulty in compiling data, Rain Coast Data recently issued its "Southeast Alaska by the Numbers 2017" for Southeast Conference.

The report's detailed overview is informative reading for anyone interested in trying to understand the health and general direction of Southeast Alaska's economy during the 2014-16 timeframe.

We're not economists or social scientists, so we'll leave attempts at full interpretation to those who are more qualified. Still, the report is gracioulsy geared to the layperson, and some of its elements stand out as particularly noteworthy.

One aspect of interest is a marked change in demographics.

While Southeast Alaska's population declined by just 1 percent to about 73,800, the number of individuals aged 65 and older grew by 10 percent — about 900 people — to approximately 10,140. The "20-something" and under age 5 categories declined by 6 percent and 5 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, the number of people in their 40s has declined by 16 percent (1,700 people) since 2010, according to the report.

Clearly, Southeast Alaska's overall population is aging. As the report notes, "27 percent of all adults in the region are over the age of 60, a percentage that is growing."

The report doesn't go into deep demographic detail for individual communities, but does give overall population figures.

The Ketchikan Gateway Borough lost 1 percent of its population during the 2014-16 timeframe, ending at 13,758 people, according to the report. Craig dropped 9 percent to 1,102, yet substantial increases were seen in Prince of Wales Island communities such as Kasaan (19 percent), Coffman Cove (16 percent) and Hollis (20 percent).

Read more here: Alaska Editorials | McClatchy Washington Bureau

[stiffnecked]

I know a number of retirees from the lower 48 that have moved to Hollis, Coffman Cove and the Thorne Bay area. These are folks that are buying their own lots and building their own houses/cabins/fishing shacks. I've been considering a place over in the Hollis area as well.

One couple I know well are just having a blast building what they want without worrying about snooty neighbors or building codes. Even the weather hasn't dampened their spirit.

[Metlakatla]

Why not? They're usually better citizens than the locals. I hope they're taking precautions against the stealing, though.

[CaliRestoration]

Is anyone surprised?

That area is like the number port for most cruise ships, and who do you think is on those cruise ships? Some families, some world travelers, but from my experience, like 70% senior citizens who fall in love with the area and decide to move roots there.

I consider Alaskan cruises more like advertising or real estate pitch trips for old people.

I also happen to agree seniors make awesome neighbors in general. You take a hit on the average speed on surface streets, but overall I think it's net positive.

[Arktikos]

Originally Posted by CaliRestoration

Is anyone surprised?

That area is like the number port for most cruise ships, and who do you think is on those cruise ships? Some families, some world travelers, but from my experience, like 70% senior citizens who fall in love with the area and decide to move roots there.

I consider Alaskan cruises more like advertising or real estate pitch trips for old people.

I also happen to agree seniors make awesome neighbors in general. You take a hit on the average speed on surface streets, but overall I think it's net positive.

Interesting. I'd never expect this, but you may be right. I figured it was mostly older people just sticking around while more younger people move away for employment opportunities.

Average speed on Egan drive highway in Juneau doesn't reflect your concern. It's noticably higher now than 5-10 years ago.

Elsewhere in SE there's no where to drive fast, which is a good thing IMO. But then, I'm pretty close to being an old codger myself.

[Metlakatla]

Can't say I've ever met anyone who's moved to SE because of a cruise. The cruise industry itself has no incentive to peddle the idea of moving to Alaska to their customers -- that would just lose them repeat business. The average cruise ship customer likes amenities and isn't going to impulsively move to a place like Hollis.

The population is aging everywhere, and people are living longer and choosing to age in place. Another factor that affects the percentages is that SE is difficult for young families to afford, and opportunities for them are limited. Those with even a shred of ambition who haven't found a way to get ahead are moving on.

[pittsflyer]

People in their 20 30 40 need good jobs (steady stable good paying non crappy) that don’t exist in south east in any abundance.