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

Environmental Scientist Salary in Alaska

The median environmental scientist salary in Alaska is $94,897 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $76,530.

Median Salary
$94,897
vs National
+$18,367
State Rank
#4 of 50
Cost of Living
124%

Environmental Scientist Salary Overview in Alaska (2026)

Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for environmental scientist compensation. This places Alaska in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for environmental scientists seeking high pay. At $94,897 per year, environmental scientists in Alaska earn $18,367 more than the national median of $76,530.

It's worth noting that Alaska's cost of living is 124% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $94,897 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $76,530.

The salary spread in Alaska is significant: environmental scientists at the 10th percentile earn $59,520, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $156,240 — a $96,720 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 $103,316.

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

Environmental Scientist Salary in Alaska by Experience

In Alaska, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $62,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $148,800 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)
$96,720
+$18,720 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$148,800
+$28,800 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $94,897 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in Alaska

Percentile AK Salary
10th Percentile $59,520
25th Percentile $73,160
Median (50th) $94,897
75th Percentile $122,760
90th Percentile $156,240

Environmental Scientist Salary by City in Alaska

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

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Alaska

Education

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

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook in Alaska

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

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Environmental Scientists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $53,903 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Environmental Scientist Roles in Alaska?

Get matched with recruiters hiring environmental scientists in Alaska at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in Alaska

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in Alaska? ▼
The median environmental scientist salary in Alaska is $94,897 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $59,520 (10th percentile) to $156,240 (90th percentile).
How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in Alaska? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $94,897, a environmental scientist in Alaska earns approximately $46 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alaska a good state for environmental scientists? ▼
Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for environmental scientist pay. The cost of living index is 124% of the national average. Entry-level environmental scientists earn $62,000, while senior professionals earn $148,800.
How does Alaska compare to other states for environmental scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for environmental scientists is Hawaii at $130,101. Alaska's median of $94,897 ranks #4 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include California ($105,611) and Massachusetts ($103,316).
What is the entry-level environmental scientist salary in Alaska? ▼
An entry-level environmental scientist in Alaska earns approximately $62,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $96,720. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $148,800.
What city in Alaska pays environmental scientists the most? ▼
Juneau is the highest paying city in Alaska for environmental scientists, with a median salary of $103,316. Other cities include Anchorage and Fairbanks.