Average Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Salary in Alaska
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Alaska earn an impressive average annual salary of $88,870, significantly outpacing the national average of $64,100. This higher compensation is largely driven by Alaska's unique economic landscape, including its remote geography and higher operational costs, which necessitate increased pay to attract and retain skilled professionals in this vital field.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $88,870 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 43.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $129,990.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,060 professionals and a Location Quotient of 1.16, Alaska demonstrates a slightly higher concentration of these counselors compared to the national average. This suggests a robust and stable demand for their services, indicating a healthy job market where these professionals are valued and sought after within the state's communities.
Salary Overview
The average Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Alaska earns+38.6%above the national average.
$42.7
$1,709
$7,406
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a positive salary growth trend for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Alaska over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing awareness of mental health issues and ongoing demand for services likely contribute to steady or upward salary adjustments in this sector.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Salary Distribution in Alaska
Career progression for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Alaska typically correlates with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the salary spectrum, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive experience can command salaries significantly above the average. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify the career advancement and earning potential available through dedication and skill development.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ProbationaryInitial licensure. Mentored by senior faculty. | 10% (Entry) | $52,790 | $25.4 |
| Tenured / ProProfessional status. Curriculum development. | 25% (Junior) | $66,653 | $32 |
| Senior EducatorDepartment chair. Mentors student teachers. | 50% (Median) | $79,220 | $38.1 |
| Lead SpecialistInstructional coach, reading specialist, or VP. | 75% (Senior) | $111,088 | $53.4 |
| AdministratorPrincipal, District Admin, or Consultant. | 90% (Expert) | $129,990 | $62.5 |
Detailed Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$88,870
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$70,197
Adjusted for COL (126.6)
While the nominal average salary of $88,870 in Alaska is attractive, it's crucial to consider the local Cost of Living Index of 126.6. This indicates that expenses in Alaska are approximately 26.6% higher than the national average. Therefore, the purchasing power of the $88,870 salary, while still substantial, needs to be evaluated against these elevated living costs to understand the true financial benefit.
Job Market Context
1,060
Total Jobs
3.305
Per 1K Jobs
1.16
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.16, Alaska has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.16 for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Alaska signifies a market that is 16% more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a competitive yet stable environment, where the demand for these specialized services is slightly higher than the national proportion, indicating good opportunities for qualified individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors make in Alaska?
The median annual salary for a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Alaska is $88,870. This typically ranges from $52,790 for entry-level positions to $129,990 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Alaska is 38.6% higher than the national median of $64,100.
Is Alaska a lucrative place for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselorss?
Yes, Alaska offers a lucrative environment for these professionals.The average salary of $88,870 significantly exceeds the national average, and the higher concentration of jobs (LQ of 1.16) indicates strong demand.
Is Alaska a good place to live for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors?
The Cost of Living Index in Alaska is 126.6. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
How does Alaska's average salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Alaska is $88,870, which is substantially higher than the national average of $64,100.
What is the Cost of Living in Alaska relative to the rest of the US?
Alaska's Cost of Living Index is 126.6, meaning it is approximately 26.6% more expensive to live there compared to the national average (which is indexed at 100).
How many Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors work in Alaska?
There are approximately 1,060 Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors employed in Alaska.
What does a Location Quotient of 1.16 mean for this profession in Alaska?
A Location Quotient of 1.16 indicates that Alaska has a slightly higher concentration of these counselors per worker (16% more) than the national average, suggesting a robust demand for their services.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,060 employees in the Alaska area with a job density of 3.305 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Alaska