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

Geologist Salary in Alaska

The median geologist salary in Alaska is $103,763 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $83,680.

Median Salary
$103,763
vs National
+$20,083
State Rank
#4 of 50
Cost of Living
124%

Geologist Salary Overview in Alaska (2026)

Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for geologist compensation. This places Alaska in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for geologists seeking high pay. At $103,763 per year, geologists in Alaska earn $20,083 more than the national median of $83,680.

It's worth noting that Alaska's cost of living is 124% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $103,763 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $83,680.

The salary spread in Alaska is significant: geologists at the 10th percentile earn $63,240, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $183,520 — a $120,280 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 $112,968.

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

Geologist Salary in Alaska by Experience

In Alaska, an entry-level geologist earns around $66,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $173,600 per year. The cost of living index in Alaska is 124% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$66,960
+$12,960 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$105,400
+$20,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$173,600
+$33,600 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Alaska

Percentile AK Salary
10th Percentile $63,240
25th Percentile $78,120
Median (50th) $103,763
75th Percentile $138,880
90th Percentile $183,520

Geologist Salary by City in Alaska

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

How to Become a Geologist in Alaska

Education

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

Key Skills

Field GeologyGISRock AnalysisStratigraphyEnvironmental AssessmentTechnical Writing

Job Outlook in Alaska

Nationally, geologist 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: Geologist Salary in Alaska

How much does a Geologist make in Alaska? ▼
The median geologist salary in Alaska is $103,763 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $83,680. Salaries range from $63,240 (10th percentile) to $183,520 (90th percentile).
How much does a Geologist make per hour in Alaska? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $103,763, a geologist in Alaska earns approximately $50 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alaska a good state for geologists? ▼
Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for geologist pay. The cost of living index is 124% of the national average. Entry-level geologists earn $66,960, while senior professionals earn $173,600.
How does Alaska compare to other states for geologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for geologists is Hawaii at $142,256. Alaska's median of $103,763 ranks #4 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include California ($115,478) and Massachusetts ($112,968).
What is the entry-level geologist salary in Alaska? ▼
An entry-level geologist in Alaska earns approximately $66,960 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $105,400. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $173,600.
What city in Alaska pays geologists the most? ▼
Juneau is the highest paying city in Alaska for geologists, with a median salary of $112,968. Other cities include Anchorage and Fairbanks.