In a tiny Alaskan city called Whittier, a unique living situation exists where 75% of the population resides in a single building. Jamie Loan, 36, and her husband Kyle, 37, made the move to Whittier from Florida seven years ago, purchasing a waterfront flat for just £15,000.
The focal point of the town is a 14-story tower block named Begich Towers Condominium (BTI), accommodating most residents and a small corner shop. Jamie and the rest of the 25% of the population live in the Whittier Manor, located near the water and above the town’s café.
During the harsh Alaskan winters from October to May, Whittier becomes deserted, and residents like Jamie have to brave treacherous conditions to travel to a neighboring town an hour away for essentials like shopping or medical appointments. Temperatures can drop to -20C, and the sun barely rises between November and March.
Jamie, who runs walking and heritage tours in the summer and works as a supply teacher in winter, shared that Whittier offers a unique blend of coastal living and rugged winters, making it an attractive choice for her and Kyle due to affordable housing options.
Despite the misconception that everyone in Whittier lives in the same building, the town’s close-knit community extends beyond the BTI. The tower not only houses a convenience store but also serves as the central postal address for all residents, who do not have individual street addresses. A tunnel connects the tower to the local school, which provides various outdoor activities for its 60 students.
While the town may seem isolated to outsiders, it is connected by a road, unlike many Alaskan communities accessible only by plane. The presence of this road, surrounded by vast mountains and forests, offers residents like Jamie the freedom to explore and enjoy a unique lifestyle, with ample employment opportunities in the thriving summer tourism sector.
Despite facing extreme winter conditions, including heavy snowfall and limited daylight, Jamie appreciates the beauty of Whittier, from ice skating on frozen roads to witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights. The tight-knit community spirit and shared experiences during the long winter months make living in Whittier a special and heartwarming experience.