Moving from West Virginia to Alaska?

6 Best WV to AK Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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WV to AK Moving Specialists

Moving from state to state isn’t just a relocation; it’s the start of an exciting adventure and a significant life change. While you're leaving behind West Virginia's rugged mountains, charming small towns, and the inviting "Mountain State" spirit, you're stepping into Alaska's breathtaking landscapes, known as "The Last Frontier," renowned for its majestic wildlife and vibrant local cultures. Understanding the vast distance and differences between these states underscores the importance of entrusting your journey to professional movers who are both trustworthy and reliable, ensuring a seamless transition in this pivotal chapter of your life.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Alaska to West Virginia guide.

6 Best West Virginia to Alaska Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
Country Roads Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 714+ data points

Morgantown, WV
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3094022 Verify

About Country Roads Moving LLC

Country Roads Moving is a Morgantown-based moving company that serves the greater North Central West Virginia area. It is licensed, insured,...Read More >>

top morgantown 2024 country roads moving llc image
top ranked movers in morgantown 2023 country roads moving llc image
top ranked movers in morgantown 2022 country roads moving llc image
#2
A
Fabulous

based on 347+ data points

Somerville, NJ
Local and long-distance moving services, Packing and unpacking services, Short-term and long-term storage options See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3679007 Verify

About Abates Moving Services LLC

With Abates Moving Services LLC, you can expect your relocation to be stress-free and quick without feeling hurried at all. This local Morga...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in morgantown 2023 abates moving services llc image
top 3 ranked movers in morgantown 2022 abates moving services llc image
#3
Central Van Lines Logo
Very Good

based on 347+ data points

Poca, WV
Local and long-distance moving services, Residential moving services, Commercial moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/16/2021)

USDOT: 1243887 Verify

About Central Van Lines

Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where they need to be...Read More >>

top 10 charleston 2024 central van lines image
top ranked movers in charleston 2023 central van lines image
top ranked movers in charleston 2022 central van lines image
#4
T
Good

based on 232+ data points

Anchorage, AK
Local Residential Moving, Local Commercial Moving, Out-of-State Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 807379 Verify

About The Moving Man

The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...Read More >>

top 10 anchorage 2024 the moving man image
#5
Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. Logo
Below Average

based on 45+ data points

Fairbanks, AK
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Cross-country moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT: 125137 Verify

About Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc.

Having been in the vehicle transportation business since 1951, Wrightway Auto Carriers, Inc. is a pioneer in the industry in Alaska. With te...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in fairbanks 2021 wrightway auto carriers inc image
#6
Central Van & Storage Logo
Below Average

based on 15+ data points

Huntington, WV
Residential Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services, International Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 1243887 Verify

About Central Van & Storage

Central Van & Storage is a family-owned and operated moving and storage company with authority to operate in every county in West Virgin...Read More >>

Pros and Cons of Moving from West Virginia to Alaska

Moving from one state to another involves weighing the good against the bad. This comparison of West Virginia to Alaska aims to reflect honestly on the disparities and perks of such a relocation. Through an examination of each state's living conditions, we hope to illuminate both the challenges and rewards that await.

CONs
PROs
West Virginia iconWest Virginia
  • Limited job opportunities
  • Lower average income
  • Less diverse landscapes
  • Smaller state parks
Alaska iconAlaska
  • Booming job sectors
  • Higher average income
  • Vast natural beauty
  • Large national parks
Alaska iconAlaska
  • More isolation
  • Higher cost of living
  • Harsher winters
  • Less historical sites
West Virginia iconWest Virginia
  • Close-knit communities
  • Lower cost of living
  • Milder winters
  • Richer history

When considering a move from West Virginia to Alaska, thinking about what you're seeking is key. West Virginia offers a charm through its close-knit communities found in towns like Charleston, where the West Virginia Culture Center Showcases the state's rich history. Contrastingly, Alaska presents a starkly different environment, with its booming job sectors in cities like Anchorage and vast natural landscapes such as Denali National Park. Yet, the higher cost of living and more isolated communities in Alaska might be a downside for some. Keep in mind, Alaska's diverse environments from the fjords of Kenai Fjords National Park to the eateries and art scenes in cities like Fairbanks and Juneau, offer unparalleled experiences for those willing to brave its harsher winters and higher expenses.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from West Virginia to Alaska

When considering a move, understanding the essence of local culture through food is invaluable. This comparison of the local cuisine between West Virginia & Alaska will illuminate the culinary scenes of both areas, allowing you to taste what your life might be like in these diverse locations.

West VirginiaAlaska

Most iconic local food item

Pepperoni RollSalmon

Most popular meat dish

VenisonKing Crab

Most popular street food item

Hot DogsReindeer Sausage

Most popular vegan food

Morel MushroomsKelp and Seaweed

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Tudor’s Biscuit World
  • Pies & Pints
  • Black Sheep Burrito & Brews
  • The Moose’s Tooth
  • Tracy's King Crab Shack
  • Glacier Brewhouse

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

68

Abundance of Food Trucks

46

Foodie Scene

67

Vegan Friendly

57

While West Virginia charms with its comfort foods like pepperoni rolls from Tudor’s Biscuit World, Alaska offers a fresh taste of the wild with its salmon and king crab dishes. For those exploring the streets for a quick bite, West Virginia's hot dogs are a go-to, whereas in Alaska, you might find yourself savoring the unique flavors of reindeer sausage. Alaska's focus on fresh, local seafood and wild plants, notably from places like The Moose’s Tooth and Tracy's King Crab Shack, hints at its higher health consciousness and adventurous foodie scene. Both states offer unique culinary delights that reflect their local traditions and natural resources, making them fascinating places for food enthusiasts to explore.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from West Virginia to Alaska

Real estate is a pivotal aspect when considering a move. Understanding how West Virginia's and Alaska's housing markets compare can significantly influence your decision. This guide compares cost, architecture, and lifestyle aspects of housing in both states, helping you navigate this crucial step in your relocation process.

Moving from West Virginia to Alaska introduces you to a significant shift in housing characteristics. The median home price in Alaska is notably higher, reflecting its unique location and the cost associated with living in a more remote and rugged environment. Alaska's architecture prominently features log cabins and modern designs, which cater to the state's challenging climate while embracing its natural beauty. Despite both states having lower walkability scores, Alaska offers slightly better bikeability and a somewhat more pronounced urban lifestyle, particularly in cities like Anchorage compared to West Virginia's rural charm. Emphasizing the connection to nature, real estate listings in Alaska frequently highlight wildlife sightings and proximity to natural landscapes, illustrating a lifestyle deeply intertwined with the outdoors.

Weather Considerations for Moving from West Virginia to Alaska

If you're moving from one location to another, it is crucial to understand how the weather will compare in West Virginia and Alaska. This comparison will help you anticipate changes and prepare accordingly.

Summer icon
85°F / 62°F

West Virginia

61°F / 51°F

Alaska

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
41°F / 21°F

West Virginia

28°F / 12°F

Alaska

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
45

West Virginia

22 (Varies widely by region)

Alaska

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
33

West Virginia

75 (Varies widely by region)

Alaska

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from West Virginia to Alaska, you will experience significant changes, especially in regards to temperature and daylight. Alaska's summer temperatures are milder, and winters are colder compared to West Virginia. The drastic reduction in the number of days of sunshine in Alaska, coupled with its higher humidity and lower UV index, suggests a darker and wetter climate. The nature of natural disasters shifts as well, with Alaska prone to earthquakes and avalanches, unlike West Virginia's floods and storms. Adapting to these environments involves not just wardrobe changes but also preparing for varied natural events and understanding the local nuances of weather patterns.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from West Virginia to Alaska

When considering a move from West Virginia to Alaska, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and other financial aspects compare. This comparison will help ensure you're prepared for the financial changes that come with relocating.

Upon examining the financial aspects between West Virginia and Alaska, a few key points stand out. The average household income in Alaska is significantly higher, which correlates with its higher cost of living index. However, this increased income does not translate to higher state income or sales taxes, as Alaska has neither, compared to West Virginia's range of 3% to 6.5% for income and a 6.5% sales tax rate. The main industries also differ greatly, with Alaska's economy reliant on oil, tourism, and fishing, compared to West Virginia's focus on healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. Despite the higher cost of living in Alaska, the absence of state income and sales tax may balance financial planning for you. It's important to consider these financial implications in addition to the increased opportunities and unique lifestyle Alaska offers.

Political & Religious Comparison between West Virginia and Alaska

Relocating from West Virginia to Alaska presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in diverse cultural settings. This quick comparison highlights the politics between West Virginia & Alaska , alongside religious landscapes, offering a glimpse into what shapes the communities in both states.

West VirginiaAlaska

Political Make-up

Lean conservativeMixed, with both conservative and liberal areas

Local Politics

Strong emphasis on coal and energy policiesFocus on oil, natural resources, and environmental regulations

Religion

Primarily Christian, with a significant Protestant populationDiverse, including Christian, Native spiritual practices, and other religions

While West Virginia's politics traditionally tilt towards conservativism, particularly with a focus on coal and energy, Alaska presents a more complex political landscape that mirrors its geographical and cultural diversity. The state's political leanings can vary significantly by region, shaped largely by local interests such as oil and environmental preservation. In terms of religion, West Virginia has a substantial Christian population, predominantly Protestant. Alaska, on the other hand, showcases a rich tapestry of religious beliefs, including a blend of Christian denominations, native spiritual practices, and other faiths, reflecting its multicultural inhabitants. Embracing these differences will be key to your seamless transition.

Education Guide When Moving from West Virginia to Alaska

Moving from one state to another presents a unique opportunity to explore educational environments that differ in many aspects. This guide aims to compare the differences between school options when considering moving from West Virginia to Alaska, giving you a better understanding of educational opportunities in both states.

West VirginiaAlaska

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

West Virginia University
Marshall University
West Virginia State University
University of Alaska Anchorage
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Alaska Pacific University

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Weimer Elementary School - Morgantown
Suncrest Primary School - Morgantown
North Elementary School - Morgantown
Bayshore Elementary - Anchorage
Trailside Elementary - Anchorage
Northern Lights ABC School - Anchorage

Top 3 Middle Schools

Winfield Middle School - Winfield
Bridgeport Middle School - Bridgeport
Suncrest Middle School - Morgantown
Mears Middle School - Anchorage
Gruening Middle School - Eagle River
Romig Middle School - Anchorage

Top 3 High Schools

George Washington High School - Charleston
Morgantown High School - Morgantown
Wheeling Park High School - Wheeling
South Anchorage High School - Anchorage
West High School - Anchorage
Dimond High School - Anchorage

Top 3 private high schools

Parkersburg Catholic High School - Parkersburg
Charleston Catholic High School - Charleston
Wheeling Central Catholic High School - Wheeling
Grace Christian School - Anchorage
Holy Rosary Academy - Anchorage
Anchorage Christian Schools - Anchorage

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Not availablePacific Northern Academy - Anchorage
Lumen Christi High School - Anchorage
Birchwood Christian School - Chugiak

Top 3 School Districts

Monongalia County Schools
Kanawha County Schools
Harrison County Schools
Anchorage School District
Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District
Kenai Peninsula Borough School District

Exploring the educational opportunities in West Virginia and Alaska reveals significant differences, particularly in school rankings and destinations for college-bound seniors. West Virginia universities, such as West Virginia University and Marshall University, are popular among the state's graduates, while Alaska offers unique opportunities through the University of Alaska Anchorage and the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The top elementary, middle, and high schools in both states, located in their respective major cities, offer varying levels of academic and extracurricular activities, indicative of the diverse educational landscapes. Particularly in Alaska, the options for private K-12 education, including schools such as Pacific Northern Academy, suggest a robust selection of private schooling unavailable in West Virginia. Finally, understanding the top school districts, like Anchorage School District in Alaska compared to Monongalia County Schools in West Virginia, can guide you in deciding the optimal location for your family's educational needs.

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