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In Alaska, the median income is $59,400, but salaries across the state can differ greatly. In cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks, the cost of living is notably higher, which is reflected in median salaries reaching $72,000 in Anchorage, with 80% of salaries falling between $56,000 and $95,000.
However, in smaller cities or rural regions, such as Wasilla or Kodiak, the median salary tends to be lower, which can make a significant difference in employee expectations.
What is considered a 'good' salary can vary based on factors like location, lifestyle, and industry. A salary in the range of $60,000 to $80,000 is generally considered comfortable for a single person in Alaska. High-paying fields like oil & gas and healthcare can offer salaries reaching up to $150,000, while more common roles such as administrative assistants typically earn around $45,000.
In Alaska, the cost of living is notably higher than the national average. Housing expenses are 28% above the national average, driven by limited availability and higher demand in many areas. Utility costs are significantly higher, about 26% above the national average, primarily due to the state's remote locations and cold climate. Transportation expenses, including gas prices and airfare, are also much higher, with costs running 28% above the national average, reflecting the challenges of Alaska's vast distances and isolated communities.
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The average salary in Alaska is determined by aggregating the annual earnings of all full-time workers across various industries and dividing that sum by the total number of workers. This calculation provides a general overview of wage levels within the state. For instance, in 2024, the average annual salary for full-time workers in Alaska was approximately $81,714, with a median salary of $65,698.
Alaska's average salary is notably higher than the national average. In 2024, Alaska's average annual salary stood at $81,714, while the U.S. national average was around $69,880 . This positions Alaska among the top-paying states in the country.
Several factors contribute to salary disparities across Alaska:
Alaska has a relatively high cost of living. As of 2025, the state's cost of living index is 123.8, compared to the national average of 100 . Housing costs are significant, with median monthly rents ranging from $724 for a studio to $2,091 for a five-bedroom home . Additionally, healthcare expenses are notably high, averaging $11,473 per person annually . These elevated living costs can impact the purchasing power of residents, despite higher salaries.
Key sectors experiencing significant growth in Alaska include:
Employers in Alaska typically offer a range of benefits to attract and retain talent:Health Insurance: Most employers provide medical, dental, and vision coverage. For instance, the University of Alaska offers comprehensive health plans through Aetna.Retirement Plans: State employees participate in the Alaska Public Employees' Retirement System, which includes both defined benefit and defined contribution plans.Paid Leave: Vacation and sick leave are standard, with many employers also offering paid holidays.Disability and Life Insurance: These are often provided to ensure financial security for employees and their families.Additional Perks: Some employers, like Alaska Airlines, offer travel benefits and wellness programs .
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