Engineering Alaska (AK) Rank #4 of 50

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Alaska

The median mechanical engineer salary in Alaska is $119,424 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $96,310.

Median Salary
$119,424
vs National
+$23,114
State Rank
#4 of 50
Cost of Living
124%

Mechanical Engineer Salary Overview in Alaska (2026)

Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for mechanical engineer compensation. This places Alaska in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for mechanical engineers seeking high pay. At $119,424 per year, mechanical engineers in Alaska earn $23,114 more than the national median of $96,310.

It's worth noting that Alaska's cost of living is 124% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $119,424 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $96,310.

The salary spread in Alaska is significant: mechanical engineers at the 10th percentile earn $78,616, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $181,288 — a $102,672 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 $130,019.

Nationally, mechanical engineer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for mechanical engineers across the country.

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Alaska by Experience

In Alaska, an entry-level mechanical engineer earns around $80,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $171,120 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)
$119,040
+$23,040 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$171,120
+$33,120 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Alaska

Percentile AK Salary
10th Percentile $78,616
25th Percentile $97,712
Median (50th) $119,424
75th Percentile $148,304
90th Percentile $181,288

Mechanical Engineer Salary by City in Alaska

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

How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in Alaska

Education

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

Key Skills

SolidWorks/CADThermodynamicsFEAManufacturingMaterials SciencePE License

Job Outlook in Alaska

Nationally, mechanical engineer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Alaska's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Mechanical Engineer Salary in Alaska

How much does a Mechanical Engineer make in Alaska? ▼
The median mechanical engineer salary in Alaska is $119,424 per year, which is 24.0% above the national median of $96,310. Salaries range from $78,616 (10th percentile) to $181,288 (90th percentile).
How much does a Mechanical Engineer make per hour in Alaska? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $119,424, a mechanical engineer in Alaska earns approximately $57 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alaska a good state for mechanical engineers? ▼
Alaska ranks #4 out of 50 states for mechanical engineer pay. The cost of living index is 124% of the national average. Entry-level mechanical engineers earn $80,600, while senior professionals earn $171,120.
How does Alaska compare to other states for mechanical engineer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for mechanical engineers is Hawaii at $163,727. Alaska's median of $119,424 ranks #4 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include California ($132,908) and Massachusetts ($130,019).
What is the entry-level mechanical engineer salary in Alaska? ▼
An entry-level mechanical engineer in Alaska earns approximately $80,600 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $119,040. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $171,120.
What city in Alaska pays mechanical engineers the most? ▼
Juneau is the highest paying city in Alaska for mechanical engineers, with a median salary of $130,019. Other cities include Anchorage and Fairbanks.