Living & Working in Sitka
Sitka is home to 9,061 people whose colorful past is a blend of Native Tlingit culture and Russian history. Sitka’s incredible scenery is framed by glacial carved mountains and island-studded waters facing the Pacific Ocean.
The city is situated on the west side of Baranof Island and the south half of Chichagof Island in the Alexander Archipelago of the Pacific Ocean. There are 22 buildings and sites in Sitka that appear in the National Register of Historic Places. Sitka has an oceanic climate with moderate, but generally cool, temperatures and abundant precipitation. Sitka’s primary economic engine is fishing, but local employers include South East Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC), and the Sitka School District.
Sitka is only accessible by boat or plane as it is on a pair of islands in the Pacific Ocean. State run passenger ferries and barges bring visitor, residents and goods to the community. There are only 14 miles of road from one end of the island to another. Most everything is within walking distance from the downtown area, which is where the majority of employers are situated. Public transportation is also available. The area supports world-class hunting, fishing, and camping, hiking, skiing, and all types of water sports.