Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Sitka, Alaska
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Sitka, AK is $68,103 per year, which is 37.0% above the national median and 6.2% above the Alaska state average.
Substance Abuse Counselor Pay in Sitka: What to Expect (2026)
Sitka offers a median substance abuse counselor salary of $68,103, which is $3,977 above the Alaska state average of $64,126. Compared to the national median of $49,710, Sitka pays above average for this role.
However, Sitka's cost of living index is 132%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $68,103 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $51,593. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Sitka should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for substance abuse counselors in Sitka spans from $41,100 at the 10th percentile to $112,340 at the 90th percentile — a $71,240 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $45,210, while senior substance abuse counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $106,860. Sitka is a smaller market (pop. 8,458), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Sitka by Experience
In Sitka, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $45,210, while experienced professionals earn up to $106,860 per year. The local cost of living index is 132% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Sitka, AK
| Percentile | Sitka |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $41,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,060 |
| Median (50th) | $68,103 |
| 75th Percentile | $89,050 |
| 90th Percentile | $112,340 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Other Alaska Cities
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Sitka
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Sitka and the surrounding Alaska area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Sitka may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Sitka
Browse open substance abuse counselor positions in Sitka, AK: