2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Palmer, AK vs Sitka, AK

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Highlights
Are people in Sitka older or younger than people in Palmer?
- The Median Age in Sitka is 8.7 years older than in Palmer.

Are housing costs cheaper in Sitka or Palmer?
- Sitka housing costs are 24.8% more expensive than Palmer housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Sitka or Palmer?
- The average commute for residents of Sitka is 19.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Palmer.

Things to do in Palmer?
Living in Palmer, AK is a unique experience. The small town atmosphere and friendly locals make it a great place to call home. The outdoors offer countless activities, from hiking to fishing and hunting, or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Alaskan wilderness. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration, including local trails and nearby parks and recreation areas. Shopping in Palmer is also convenient with an array of stores to choose from. Public transportation makes getting around easy whether you need to get to Anchorage or Wasilla. Overall, Palmer is a wonderful place to live with its small-town charm and proximity to so many outdoor attractions.

Things to do in Sitka?
Living in Sitka, AK is like living in a beautiful postcard. Sitka is tucked away in the mountains of Southeast Alaska and boasts dramatic landscapes of snow-capped peaks, deep blue fjords, lush evergreen forests, and stunning views of the ocean. The city itself offers plenty of activities to enjoy too, including hiking, kayaking, fishing, whale watching and more. The climate is milder than other parts of Alaska with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing during winter months. There is an abundance of wildlife throughout the area as well as a vibrant arts scene that includes museums and galleries featuring local artists and performances from regional musicians. It's easy to see why many find this destination so special!

 Palmer, AKSitka, AKUnited States
 Population  Unlock8,518329,725,481
 Median Income$62,068  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$351,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time30.16  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Palmer    3 Reviews

The first time I saw Palmer was in 1974. It's grown up from the old days of farm country complete with 4-H clubs, fields of crops and livestock. Gone are most of the  More

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Over 19 years ago

The four months of cold and dark. Winter lasts about 8 months, but the real cold, dark lasts about 4 months. It is getting harder and harder to deal with as I get  More

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Over 19 years ago

I have lived in Palmer for 11 years. I love everything about it except about four months of the dark, cold winters. The people are  More

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Reviews for Sitka    3 Reviews

Over 14 years ago

Sitka is a stunning place that, depending on your definition, can be quite sunny. Sitka had 260 days of sun in 2010 and 228 in 2009 if you count any day the sun comes  More

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Over 18 years ago

I've lived in the three largest communities in SE Alaska for over 25 years and Sitka is by far the best. It is known as the emerald of  More

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Sitka has got to be one of the most beautiful places on earth when the skies clear of rain and clouds... If you yearn for a remote island community with plenty of  More

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