Science & Research Alaska (AK) Rank #4 of 50

Chemist Salary in Alaska

The median chemist salary in Alaska is $102,660 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $82,790.

Median Salary
$102,660
vs National
+$19,870
State Rank
#4 of 50
Cost of Living
124%

Chemist Salary Overview in Alaska (2026)

Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for chemist compensation. This places Alaska in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for chemists seeking high pay. At $102,660 per year, chemists in Alaska earn $19,870 more than the national median of $82,790.

It's worth noting that Alaska's cost of living is 124% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $102,660 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $82,790.

The salary spread in Alaska is significant: chemists at the 10th percentile earn $59,520, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $176,080 — a $116,560 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Alaska for this role is Juneau, where the median reaches $111,767.

Nationally, chemist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for chemists across the country.

Chemist Salary in Alaska by Experience

In Alaska, an entry-level chemist earns around $62,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $167,400 per year. The cost of living index in Alaska is 124% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$62,000
+$12,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$104,160
+$20,160 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$167,400
+$32,400 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Alaska

Percentile AK Salary
10th Percentile $59,520
25th Percentile $76,880
Median (50th) $102,660
75th Percentile $135,160
90th Percentile $176,080

Chemist Salary by City in Alaska

The largest employment areas for chemists in Alaska include Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Sitka. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Chemist in Alaska

Education

Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Alaska has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Analytical ChemistryLab TechniquesSpectroscopyHPLCQuality ControlResearch Methods

Job Outlook in Alaska

Nationally, chemist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Alaska's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Chemist Salary in Alaska

How much does a Chemist make in Alaska? ▼
The median chemist salary in Alaska is $102,660 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $82,790. Salaries range from $59,520 (10th percentile) to $176,080 (90th percentile).
How much does a Chemist make per hour in Alaska? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $102,660, a chemist in Alaska earns approximately $49 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alaska a good state for chemists? ▼
Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for chemist pay. The cost of living index is 124% of the national average. Entry-level chemists earn $62,000, while senior professionals earn $167,400.
How does Alaska compare to other states for chemist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for chemists is Hawaii at $140,743. Alaska's median of $102,660 ranks #4 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include California ($114,250) and Massachusetts ($111,767).
What is the entry-level chemist salary in Alaska? ▼
An entry-level chemist in Alaska earns approximately $62,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $104,160. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $167,400.
What city in Alaska pays chemists the most? ▼
Juneau is the highest paying city in Alaska for chemists, with a median salary of $111,767. Other cities include Anchorage and Fairbanks.