Moving to Alaska for Free: A Guide for the Unemployed and Underprivileged

Considering a move to Alaska without financial resources or job prospects might seem like a daunting task. However, with the right approach and strategy, it's possible to make such a dream a reality.

Exploring Military Service as Your Ticket to Alaska

One of the most effective and less conventional ways to move to Alaska is through service in the military. Joining the military provides not only a source of income but also an opportunity to request an assignment to Anchorage. The Air Force and the Army are both stationed in Alaska, and while luck plays a role, securing a placement can be a rewarding experience for those who are willing to train and dedicate themselves.

Training for a speciality and obtaining a security clearance can take a significant amount of time, often around 18 months. However, this period also means you'll be stationed in Alaska, offering you the chance to settle in and explore the state before receiving a discharge. My personal journey started this way, and I found Alaska to be a welcoming environment that has stayed with me through the years.

Securing a Summer Job in the Fishing Industry

Alternative options include securing a summer job in the fishing industry, particularly in one of the many canneries scattered across the state. These jobs can prove lucrative during the summer months and might even cover your travel and living expenses. Most canneries provide room and board for the season, which can be a significant relief considering the remote locations.

While these positions might seem challenging, with long hours and physically demanding work, they can be valuable stepping stones. One summer, I dined with a couple who were so impressed by the picturesque setting of their fishing town, they considered moving there entirely. However, upon inquiry, the waitress shared a stark reality that often comes with living in such remote areas: "You do what you have to do in order to live here." This candid observation revealed that even professionals with advanced degrees had to work hard to make ends meet.

Diverse Pathways to Living in Alaska

The fishing industry isn't the only avenue available. Seasonal employment, particularly in the spring, can also be a viable option. For instance, my daughter worked in a cannery during a break from college and ended up meeting her husband, who would later become the father of my granddaughters. Moreover, the summer work season brings in a unique economic environment where tight living conditions and limited spending opportunities can create financial stability. Once the season ends, you could save enough to afford a flight to Anchorage and start your new life in the state.

Adjusting to life in Alaska requires a mindset shift towards self-reliance and resilience, but it can be an incredible journey for those ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of living in one of America's most unique and beautiful states.