Alaska was probably the last state that offered free land for homesteading. I know many people up here who homesteaded their land which was given to them by the state. Although free land is no longer offered, there are still quite a few parcels up here that are in nice areas with road access offered at reasonable prices. (i.e. 10 acres for $8,000).

I know most of you think we are crazy to live here, but you only have to experience the lifestyle here for a short while before you really get hooked on it. There is unlimited open lands for recreation, hunting, fishing, searching for minerals (not just gold). Many folks up here live a subsistance lifestyle and do it well. The state allows residents to harvest moose, caribou, bear and fish (including 4 species of wild salmon). In short, it is still very possible for someone to come to Alaska and live their subsistance dream.

As for me though, I work full time as a state inspector. My wife works full time also and we are saving and planning so that in 4.5 years we can retire from the working world with a decent pension and good health insurance for the rest of our lives. I love my job. It allows me to travel to most of the remote parts of Alaska and experience the beauty and splendor of the 49th state. And it pays well enough that I can occasionally take a good vacation and see my friends in Maryland, Arizona, California and (this year) England. I think I'll keep my subsistance activities confined to dragging an occasional salmon or halibut out of the water and buying my Cheerios down at the grocery store.

Mike