Public Service Alaska (AK) Rank #4 of 50

Correctional Officer Salary in Alaska

The median correctional officer salary in Alaska is $61,516 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $49,610.

Median Salary
$61,516
vs National
+$11,906
State Rank
#4 of 50
Cost of Living
124%

Correctional Officer Salary Overview in Alaska (2026)

Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for correctional officer compensation. This places Alaska in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for correctional officers seeking high pay. At $61,516 per year, correctional officers in Alaska earn $11,906 more than the national median of $49,610.

It's worth noting that Alaska's cost of living is 124% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $61,516 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $49,610.

The salary spread in Alaska is significant: correctional officers at the 10th percentile earn $40,920, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $96,720 — a $55,800 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 $66,974.

Nationally, correctional officer employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Despite slower growth nationally, experienced correctional officers with in-demand specializations continue to command strong salaries.

Correctional Officer Salary in Alaska by Experience

In Alaska, an entry-level correctional officer earns around $43,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,280 per year. The cost of living index in Alaska is 124% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$43,400
+$8,400 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$62,000
+$12,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$89,280
+$17,280 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Alaska

Percentile AK Salary
10th Percentile $40,920
25th Percentile $48,360
Median (50th) $61,516
75th Percentile $78,120
90th Percentile $96,720

Correctional Officer Salary by City in Alaska

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

How to Become a Correctional Officer in Alaska

Education

Most correctional officer positions require a high school diploma. Alaska has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

SecurityConflict ResolutionReport WritingPhysical FitnessCommunicationCrisis Management

Job Outlook in Alaska

Nationally, correctional officer employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Alaska's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Correctional Officer Salary in Alaska

How much does a Correctional Officer make in Alaska? ▼
The median correctional officer salary in Alaska is $61,516 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $49,610. Salaries range from $40,920 (10th percentile) to $96,720 (90th percentile).
How much does a Correctional Officer make per hour in Alaska? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $61,516, a correctional officer in Alaska earns approximately $30 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alaska a good state for correctional officers? ▼
Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for correctional officer pay. The cost of living index is 124% of the national average. Entry-level correctional officers earn $43,400, while senior professionals earn $89,280.
How does Alaska compare to other states for correctional officer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for correctional officers is Hawaii at $84,337. Alaska's median of $61,516 ranks #4 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include California ($68,462) and Massachusetts ($66,974).
What is the entry-level correctional officer salary in Alaska? ▼
An entry-level correctional officer in Alaska earns approximately $43,400 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $62,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $89,280.
What city in Alaska pays correctional officers the most? ▼
Juneau is the highest paying city in Alaska for correctional officers, with a median salary of $66,974. Other cities include Anchorage and Fairbanks.