Business & Finance Alaska (AK) Rank #5 of 50

Economist Salary in Alaska

The median economist salary in Alaska is $141,286 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $113,940.

Median Salary
$141,286
vs National
+$27,346
State Rank
#5 of 50
Cost of Living
124%

Economist Salary Overview in Alaska (2026)

Alaska ranks #5 out of 50 states for economist compensation. This places Alaska in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for economists seeking high pay. At $141,286 per year, economists in Alaska earn $27,346 more than the national median of $113,940.

It's worth noting that Alaska's cost of living is 124% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $141,286 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $113,940.

The salary spread in Alaska is significant: economists at the 10th percentile earn $76,880, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $245,520 — a $168,640 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 $153,819.

Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for economists across the country.

Economist Salary in Alaska by Experience

In Alaska, an entry-level economist earns around $80,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $229,400 per year. The cost of living index in Alaska is 124% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$80,600
+$15,600 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$142,600
+$27,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$229,400
+$44,400 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Alaska

Percentile AK Salary
10th Percentile $76,880
25th Percentile $101,680
Median (50th) $141,286
75th Percentile $192,200
90th Percentile $245,520

Economist Salary by City in Alaska

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

How to Become a Economist in Alaska

Education

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

Key Skills

EconometricsStatistical AnalysisR/PythonEconomic ModelingResearch MethodsPolicy Analysis

Job Outlook in Alaska

Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Alaska's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Economist Salary in Alaska

How much does a Economist make in Alaska? ▼
The median economist salary in Alaska is $141,286 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $113,940. Salaries range from $76,880 (10th percentile) to $245,520 (90th percentile).
How much does a Economist make per hour in Alaska? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $141,286, a economist in Alaska earns approximately $68 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alaska a good state for economists? ▼
Alaska ranks #5 out of 50 states for economist pay. The cost of living index is 124% of the national average. Entry-level economists earn $80,600, while senior professionals earn $229,400.
How does Alaska compare to other states for economist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for economists is Hawaii at $193,698. Alaska's median of $141,286 ranks #5 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include California ($157,237) and New York ($152,680).
What is the entry-level economist salary in Alaska? ▼
An entry-level economist in Alaska earns approximately $80,600 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $142,600. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $229,400.
What city in Alaska pays economists the most? ▼
Juneau is the highest paying city in Alaska for economists, with a median salary of $153,819. Other cities include Anchorage and Fairbanks.