June 11, 2002
Tuesday - 12:20 am

Click on the graphic to download June 2002 Alaska Trends.... ---

Cost of living information is the most requested economic data distributed by the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Alaska's cost-of-living data tell us, for example, that: the average consumer spends the largest share of his or her dollar on housing, in the past decade medical care costs in Anchorage have grown by 63.1%, and that it takes 1.4 wage earners to buy an average house here. This month's Alaska Economic Trends looks at Alaska's economy through five or more different projectors.

The Anchorage Consumer Price Index (CPI) is the most important cost-of-living indicator. Anchorage is one of 87 urban communities in the United States, and the only one in Alaska, where the Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks consumer prices. The CPI plays an important role in contracts, such as long-term rentals and child support payments. The Permanent Fund Corporation uses it to "inflation proof" the fund.

A variety of measures is available to compare costs of living in different communities in Alaska and elsewhere. Consumers can refer to the Runzheimer International index, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's cost-of-food at home for a week index, the American Chamber of Commerce Researchers Association index, information from Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, and web based indexes.

To find answers users have a wealth of information from which to draw, and much of it is available online.

• The Alaska Department of Labor's relocation website offers cost-of-living information, general information about Alaska, information on employment opportunities and about traveling to Alaska.
• The U.S. Department of Labor Consumer Price Index site provides CPI data for Anchorage and all areas.
• Homefair City Reports offers side-by-side comparisons of two cities' cost of living, climate, demographics, and other vital information.
• Maze Recruiters and Associates provides a cost-of-living index that incorporates the impact of taxes.
• Other web sites worth a look are CityRating.com and Homeadvisor.

This month's issue of Alaska Economic Trends also looks at Training Programs and the 2002 Employment Scene. Click on the graphic to download June 2002 Alaska Economic Trends.

Source of news release:

Alaska Department of Labor
Web Site

Post a Comment -------View Comments

Submit an Opinion - Letter

Sitnews
Stories In The News