Chapter 3 “The Yukon’s Best‑Kept Secrets”
Last week was all about the weather, the light, and the work. This week, I want to talk about something completely different — the financial perks that come with living in the North. And some of them might surprise you
.So, now on to some of the financial perks — because living in the North truly comes with some surprising benefits.
When you work for the Government of Yukon, they take into account just how far north you are and how secluded life can be. They want people to stay, so they offer a very generous travel benefit, sometimes referred to as your “get‑out‑of‑Dodge money.” It’s meant to help you travel south each year, take a break, and enjoy life beyond the territory. And here’s the best part: if you use it for travel, it’s tax‑free. If you choose to spend it on something else, it becomes taxable — but still, what an incredible perk.
I will never forget the moment I first learned about the travel benefit. Shocked and elated doesn’t even begin to cover it. I remember thinking so clearly, “Why would I need to get out of Whitehorse?” I felt no urge to escape. I was happy, settled, and completely content deep in the North. Life felt full, and I had no desire to go anywhere else.
But life has a way of shifting when you least expect it.
About three years later, things began to change — my parents’ health, and eventually my own. Suddenly, the idea of traveling south wasn’t just a luxury; it became necessary. And in those moments, I was deeply grateful for that benefit I once thought I’d never use. It felt like a small kindness built into the fabric of northern life, waiting quietly until the day I needed it.
And that’s only the beginning.
Most people have heard of the Northern Living Allowance, and let me tell you, it makes a real difference — especially when you have a dependent. I used to actually look forward to tax time (I know, I can’t believe I’m saying that either), because that was when my bank account looked especially happy.
But the biggest blessing came because there were no post‑secondary options in the Yukon at the time. The Government of Yukon offered an unbelievable program for students who completed their schooling in the territory and wanted to pursue further education. They were willing to pay for my son’s university tuition — his choice of school, anywhere in Canada. Books and accommodation weren’t included, but still… what an opportunity.
My son took full advantage of it for his first two years of post‑secondary education. For his third year, the program was no longer available — who knows why — but honestly, two years of paid tuition is nothing to complain about. We were incredibly grateful for what he received.
So yes, living in the Yukon absolutely has its perks. But as I’ll share in the next chapter, the North also comes with some heavy expenses — the kind that can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. Join me next week as I dive into the financial realities that balance out all these incredible benefits.
Until next time,
Darlene
My son celebrating his 16th birthday in the Yukon!
The picture says it all!
Watching the Yukon Quest!! Seeing and hearing those dogs when they are waiting to start is something I will never forget!! THOSE DOGS LOVE WHAT THEY DO!
