Local Information for Alaska

With more or less 100,000 glaciers, Alaska is one of America’s most interesting states. It is also the United States’ largest state in terms of area. Known as Alyeska, which means the great land, Alaska was actually bought from Russia in 1867. It became an organized territory in 1912 and was recognized as the 49^th state in 1959.

Nicknamed The Last Frontier and the Land of the Midnight Sun, Alaska is found in the North American continent’s northwest extremity. It has 17 of the 20 highest peaks in the US. Likewise, it is home to over 70 volcanoes. Katmai National Park’s Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes is one of the most significant places in Alaska as it was formed after the eruption of the Novarupta Volcano in 1912.

Alaska is where you’ll find some of the United States’ most beautiful cities. This includes the unified borough and city of Anchorage, the capital city and borough of Juneau, and the state’s 6^th largest city, Wasilla.

Contrary to what most people think, the majority of those who have visited the state find the weather in Alaska pleasant. It can be an ideal community for your family.

Affordable Housing in Alaska

Finding an affordable home in Alaska is easy, thanks to The Association of Alaska Housing Authorities (AAHA). This Alaska housing authority consists of 14 regional housing authorities, including the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation or AHFC. Its main aim is to provide affordable housing development and funding sources for the residents of the state.

Additionally, the AAHA focuses on legislative advocacy, technical assistance, and training that can lead to a better supply of affordable, decent, safe, and sanitary housing for Alaskan communities. Aside from providing assistance to residents looking to purchase a home affordably, the AAHA also builds and renovates homes, as well as help educate homebuyers and renters.

The Alaska Housing Finance Corporation located in Anchorage provides assistance to individuals and families wishing to build a home in the said city. Meanwhile, if you plan to find a home for your family in Juneau, the Tlingit-Haida Regional Housing Authority (THRHA) is the agency to approach. They provide assistance specifically to non-natives in Southeast Alaska. The Alaska  Corporation for Affordable Housing or ACAH, a subsidiary of the AHFC, also assists in providing affordable housing and services to those in need.

Rental Assistance in Alaska

One of the AHFC’s goals is to offer rental assistance to Alaskans. The agency partners with groups in finding good housing developments. It also provides housing vouchers to those looking for quality affordable rentals. The Housing Choice Voucher Program is intended for Alaskans who want to obtain affordable housing options, but are living on low incomes. It is administered by the AHFC in 12 Alaskan communities, including Anchorage, Juneau, and Wasilla.

Housing vouchers, also known as Section 8 vouchers, are for families with incomes below (or at) the 50% of the median income. Once a rental home is found for them, they are to pay 30% of their income towards the rent, while the remaining amount will be paid for with the voucher. Income limits are set according to size of family, among other factors.

Living in Alaska is easier because of the many affordable home and rental assistance options available. Find help now and get the chance to finally own the home of your dreams in Alaska!