Moving to Alaska from Oklahoma requires careful planning due to the long distance and Alaska's unique climate and geography. Here’s how to get started:
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Create a moving checklist: Organize your tasks, from packing to hiring movers and scheduling utilities, to ensure everything is managed on time.
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Declutter before packing:
Reduce your load by donating or selling items you no longer need, which can help cut moving costs.
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Research your new area: Whether moving to Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, or a smaller town, familiarize yourself with Alaska’s housing, schools, and local amenities.
Explore our Ultimate Moving Guidefor more advice on preparing for your move.
Alaska offers a unique lifestyle and climate that may take some getting used to:
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Subarctic and polar climate: Depending on where you move, you’ll experience long, harsh winters with heavy snowfall, along with short, cool summers. Be prepared for extreme cold, especially in northern regions, and invest in winter-ready gear and home insulation.
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Urban, suburban, and remote living: Alaska has a wide variety of living environments. Anchorage and Fairbanks offer more urban conveniences, while smaller towns and remote villages provide a quieter, rugged lifestyle surrounded by wilderness.
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Adventurous, outdoorsy culture: Alaskans are known for their self-reliance and love of the outdoors. The state offers endless opportunities for adventure, including hiking, fishing, skiing, and wildlife exploration.
Outdoor Activities in Alaska
Alaska’s natural beauty offers some of the most breathtaking outdoor experiences in the world:
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National parks and hiking:
Explore Denali National Park, Wrangell-St. Elias, and Kenai Fjords for hiking, camping, and spotting wildlife such as bears, moose, and caribou.
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Fishing and hunting: Alaska is a paradise for anglers and hunters. Whether fishing for salmon in the rivers or deep-sea fishing along the coast, Alaska’s waters are rich with marine life.
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Winter sports: Alaska’s long winters make it a great place for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. Girdwood’s Alyeska Resort is a popular ski destination.
Alaska’s economy revolves around a few key industries that offer unique career opportunities:
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Oil, gas, and energy:
The oil industry is a major employer in Alaska, particularly around Prudhoe Bay and other oil-rich regions.
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Fishing and seafood: Alaska’s commercial fishing industry is one of the largest in the world, offering jobs in seafood processing, commercial fishing, and logistics.
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Healthcare and education: Anchorage and Fairbanks have growing healthcare sectors, with demand for medical professionals. There are also opportunities in education, particularly in more remote areas.
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Tourism and hospitality:
Alaska’s tourism industry is booming, with seasonal opportunities in tour guiding, hospitality, and outdoor adventure companies.
For more help with coordinating your move, check out Moving.co.
Alaska’s remote beauty and unique lifestyle provide opportunities for both excitement and relaxation:
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Anchorage:
The largest city in Alaska, Anchorage offers the most urban amenities while still providing easy access to nature. It’s a hub for energy, transportation, and healthcare jobs.
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Fairbanks: Known for its cold winters and proximity to the Arctic, Fairbanks is home to the University of Alaska and offers opportunities in education, research, and energy.
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Juneau: Alaska’s state capital, Juneau, is located in the Southeast and is accessible only by boat or plane. The economy is driven by government jobs, tourism, and fishing.
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Smaller towns and villages:
Many of Alaska’s smaller communities offer a quieter, more remote way of life, perfect for those who enjoy solitude and self-sufficiency.
Moving to Alaska requires expertise, especially with the long distances and potential for ferry transportation. Choosing a reliable moving company that is experienced with Alaska relocations is key to a successful move.
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Start early:
Due to the logistics of moving to Alaska, it’s crucial to start planning early. Book movers and coordinate transportation well in advance, especially if you’re moving during the busy summer season.
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Prepare for the cold: Ensure your new home is well-insulated and equipped for Alaska’s cold winters. Invest in high-quality winter clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
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Explore your new surroundings:
Alaska offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor experiences, from the Northern Lights to glacier tours and remote hiking trails. Take advantage of all the adventure that Alaska has to offer.
Ready to make your move to Alaska? Let us help ensure a smooth transition as you embark on your new life in the Last Frontier.
