Welcome to the frozen state of Alaska. With a population of about 736,081 as of 2020, currently the 48th biggest state (the largest state by area). The state is not a place with many livable spaces and houses ain’t that much. Finding housing for felons in Alaska is damn difficult. Some landlords may not rent to individuals with a criminal record. Compared to other urban states, Alaska has a limited selection of housing options available. Getting felon-friendly apartments in Alaska is a hard one but not impossible. Let’s check the options, means, and resources to do so.
Housing For Felons In Alaska
Life after prison can be tough, and one of the biggest issues faced by former felons is finding suitable housing. This struggle is amplified in Alaska due to various housing restrictions limiting their options. While reintegration into society is already an uphill battle, the lack of stable housing further adds to the difficulties faced by felons seeking a fresh start.
Alaska is a peaceful cold state with low crime. The average cost for apartments is $1300 – $1500/mo for 2 beds.
It’s a perfect place for a hideout and a fresh start. It is also good for those in the WITSEC program (just kidding) or who wanna live out their days in the frozen wilderness in a cabin.
Here are some resources to explore to help you get suitable housing despite your felony record.
Alaska Apartments Online
The first thing to do is check online for landlords and apartments that are willing to rent to felons.
- Surf on Craigslist for apartments in Alaska. Most landlords advertise on Craigslist for single/multiple units of apartments for rent. Not all do background checks too. You can negotiate for pricing and maybe offer to pay upfront before seeing the place.
- Apartments.com is another good site to check for houses. Click on the link provided here to find cheap apartments in Alaska.
There are other sites but these are the major two you easily get friendly apartments in Alaska.
Alaska Housing Authority
The housing authority in Alaska is the same as HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT (HUD). This helps low-income families and can aid felons get cheap housing. Individuals with criminal records are eligible to apply for this program. The authority checks how much you earn yearly to ascertain housing privileges that will be given.
Reentry Programs/Supportive Services
Several reentry programs help prisoners get housing and jobs. It is best to use these programs to make it less stressful to find apartments. These programs help felons get back on their feet and become stable in society. Successful reintegration into society involves more than just finding a place to live. Accessing supportive services can greatly increase your chances of a smooth transition. In Alaska, you’ll find various resources available to felons to help with job training, education, and counseling.
Take advantage of the numerous supportive services available to felons in Alaska. These include job training programs, vocational rehabilitation services, substance abuse counseling, mental health support, and reentry-focused educational opportunities. The resources can help you develop the necessary skills for employment, address any underlying issues, and ultimately improve your chances of securing stable housing.
These programs provide temporary housing options and offer assistance in navigating the housing market, understanding tenant rights, and building the necessary skills for successful independent living.
Government Assistance Programs
The government also offers assistance programs to help former felons secure housing. These programs provide financial aid, employment support, and rental assistance to individuals in need. Exploring these programs and understanding the eligibility criteria can be a valuable resource in finding affordable and stable housing. Remember, finding felon-friendly apartments in Alaska may require extra effort, but it is not impossible. By understanding your rights, seeking support from organizations, and exploring available resources, you can increase your chances of finding suitable housing to embark on a fresh start.
Religious Community In Alaska
Religious organizations are a great resource for ex-felons. They are easy to access and provide accommodations for felons. Examples are the Mountain City Church, Kingdom Life, and Present Hope. Religious communities work with the state government to provide help for former prisoners.
Referrals From Family & Friends
Friends and family can make getting a house easy like Sunday morning. They can refer you to landlords that are willing to rent to felons. They can rent on your behave too (but you risk eviction if discovered except the landlord is willing to let it slide). You can use them as your surety to affirm property owners of good behavior and timely payment.
Alternative Housing Options
When traditional rental options seem out of reach, it’s essential to consider alternative housing options. Transitional housing programs specifically designed for individuals with criminal records can provide temporary accommodations while you work on rebuilding your life. Additionally, rooming houses or shared living situations might offer more flexibility in terms of background checks and rental history requirements. Remember, not all landlords have strict policies against renting to felons, so cast a wide net during your housing search. Look for smaller, independent landlords who may be more willing to consider your unique circumstances.
Legal Rights For Former Felons In Alaska
Fair Housing Laws In Alaska
Just like other states, Alaska has implemented fair housing laws to safeguard individuals from discrimination based on their criminal record. These laws ensure that former felons have an equal opportunity to apply for housing and be considered based on their qualifications as tenants rather than their past mistakes.
Know Your Rights As A Former Felon Tenant
As a former felon seeking housing in Alaska, it’s important to be aware of your rights. Landlords cannot automatically deny housing solely based on a criminal record but must consider other factors such as the nature of the offense, the time that has passed since the conviction, and evidence of rehabilitation. Familiarize yourself with these rights to navigate the housing market more confidently.
Cool Places To Live In Alaska
There are factors to consider when renting or that make a town friendly in Alaska.
Close-knit Community And Neighborly Atmosphere
A key factor contributing to a friendly town in Alaska is its close-knit community and neighborly atmosphere. In these towns, you’ll find people who genuinely care about their neighbors, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a friendly smile. It’s like having an extended family where everyone looks out for one another.
Low Crime Rates And Safety Measures
Safety is another important aspect of a friendly town. In Alaska’s friendliest towns, you’ll find low crime rates and a strong emphasis on safety measures. Whether you’re strolling down the streets or enjoying outdoor activities, you can feel at ease knowing that these towns prioritize the well-being of their residents.
Access To Essential Services And Amenities
Friendly towns in Alaska understand the importance of having access to essential services and amenities. From healthcare facilities and schools to grocery stores and recreational areas, these towns strive to provide their residents with everything they need to enjoy a comfortable and convenient lifestyle. After all, it’s much easier to be friendly when you have everything you need close by.
Note: you don’t wanna live in an isolated place and harsh environmental conditions in Alaska. Most towns in Alaska don’t have steady wifi services, nearby schools, and mail services cause of their icy nature and distance from urban areas.
Top Felon-Friendly Towns in Alaska
Anchorage: Alaska’s Cultural and Economic Hub
The largest city in Alaska may surprise you with its friendly atmosphere despite its urban setting. Known for its diverse population, Anchorage offers a vibrant cultural scene, bustling markets, and numerous community events that foster a sense of belonging among its residents.
Juneau: The Capital City with a Small-Town Feel
The capital city of Alaska may be small in size, but it’s big on friendliness. Nestled amidst stunning mountain scenery, Juneau offers a small-town feel where people greet each other with warmth and kindness. The tight-knit community atmosphere makes it easy to make new friends and feel like you’re part of something special.
Sitka: Rich History and Vibrant Arts Scene
Sitka, a picturesque town with a rich history, is a haven for those seeking a friendly and artsy community. The town’s vibrant arts scene, featuring local theaters, galleries, and festivals, brings residents together to celebrate creativity and forge lasting friendships. With its stunning coastal setting and welcoming locals, Sitka is a true gem of Alaska.
Fairbanks: An Outdoor Paradise with Northern Charm
Fairbanks, nestled in the heart of the Last Frontier, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and friendly community spirit. With an abundance of outdoor activities year-round, including hiking, skiing, and dog sledding, Fairbanks attracts adventure enthusiasts who also value a tight-knit community. The northern charm of Fairbanks will make you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
Conclusion
While the search for felon-friendly apartments in Alaska may come with its fair share of obstacles, it is crucial to remember that hope exists and positive outcomes are possible. By understanding their legal rights, exploring available resources and support networks, and leveraging effective strategies for finding suitable housing, former felons can increase their chances of securing a stable home. We hope that this has provided valuable insights, tips, and inspiration for individuals in Alaska facing these challenges. With determination, perseverance, and access to the right information, former felons can successfully navigate the process and find a place to call home.
I’m Cli, also known as Castro. An author of felhus.com
I’ve got great passion for felons and wanna see them live absolutely normal again.