A sophisticated metropolis in the midst of a rugged wilderness, Anchorage is considered a phenomenon. If you are considering relocating to Anchorage, here is some information to consider.

Citizens of Anchorage enjoy a high per capita income, low taxes and low crime rates. Encompassing 1,955 square miles, 260,283 residents inhabit the city according the U.S. census in 2000. In 2005, it was estimated the population rose 5.7 percent, adding nearly 15,000 people. But when compared with the 1980 census, the area has grown by over 100,000 residents. Median household incomes total $55,546. The average age of residents is 32.4 years. Nearly 70 percent of residents are white non-hispanic, 10.4 percent American Indian and 5.8 percent black.

If you are considering relocating to Anchorage, one of the key things to know is Anchorage residents aren't burdened by taxation. There are no state, local or sales taxes. Only fuel, tobacco, alcohol and fishing licenses are taxed. However, residents experience a significantly higher cost of living. To offset that, the Permanent Fund provides state residents a 25 percent royalty on oil revenue. From 1970-1989, nearly 63 percent of Anchorage's current homes were constructed. The median home value is $160,700. Monthly rent is $699 on average.

Anchorage is heavily relied upon to be the state's commercial center. Oil and gas, military, transportation and tourism drive the economy. Ninety percent of Alaska's consumer goods are delivered though the city's ports. While Juneau is the state capital, Anchorage is the government center. It is estimated 14,300 state and federal government employees work in the city. Ten percent of the population comes from people relocating to Anchorage, specifically military personnel and their families.

If you are considering relocating to Anchorage, the weather will be an issue. Anchorage has distinct seasons similar to that of Denver, Colorado. The climate is mild when compared with the rest of the state. Surrounding mountains reach as high as 10,000 feet. The Alaskan Range blocks out cold air currents, making Anchorage 25 to 30 degrees warmer than the rest of the state. On average, temperatures are 20 in January and 65 in July. Over 70 inches of snow falls annually from mid-October to mid-April. The dark days of winter are confined to December with six hours of daylight. By late June, there are 19 hours of light.

With plenty to see and do in the area, relocating to Anchorage is becoming a popular choice for many people. Anchorage International Airport offers direct connections to major cities and international destinations so you can always jump on a plane to just about any destination.

Lou Ross is with relocatingCompaniesforYou.com - information on relocating to Alaska.