Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Anchorage, AK, command an impressive average annual salary of $90,940. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of $64,100, indicating a strong demand and potentially higher cost of living or specialized needs within the Alaskan market that drive compensation upwards.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $90,940 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 47.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $131,380.
- Outlook: The local workforce of 670 professionals in this field, coupled with a Location Quotient of 1.35, suggests a robust and concentrated job market in Anchorage. A Location Quotient above 1.0 signifies that this profession is more concentrated in Anchorage than the national average, pointing to a healthy demand for these specialized services.
Salary Overview
The average Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Anchorage, AK earns+41.9%above the national average.
$43.7
$1,749
$7,578
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Anchorage have seen consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends of increasing demand for mental health services and the corresponding upward pressure on compensation.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Salary Distribution in Anchorage, AK
Career progression for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Anchorage typically involves a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower percentiles, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive experience can command salaries in the higher percentiles, reflecting a clear career trajectory and earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ProbationaryInitial licensure. Mentored by senior faculty. | 10% (Entry) | $57,110 | $27.5 |
| Tenured / ProProfessional status. Curriculum development. | 25% (Junior) | $68,205 | $32.8 |
| Senior EducatorDepartment chair. Mentors student teachers. | 50% (Median) | $79,830 | $38.4 |
| Lead SpecialistInstructional coach, reading specialist, or VP. | 75% (Senior) | $113,675 | $54.7 |
| AdministratorPrincipal, District Admin, or Consultant. | 90% (Expert) | $131,380 | $63.2 |
Detailed Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$90,940
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$90,940
Adjusted for COL (100)
With an average annual salary of $90,940 and a Cost of Living Index of 100 (matching the national average), Anchorage presents a financially advantageous environment for these counselors. The nominal salary is substantial, and when benchmarked against a neutral cost of living, it suggests that purchasing power for these professionals is likely to be strong.
Job Market Context
670
Total Jobs
3.849
Per 1K Jobs
1.35
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.35, Anchorage, AK 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 1.35 for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Anchorage indicates a higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average. This suggests a competitive yet potentially abundant job market, where employers may actively seek skilled individuals to meet local demand.
Nearby Job Markets
Hiring Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselorss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors make in Anchorage, AK?
The median annual salary for a Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Anchorage, AK is $90,940. This typically ranges from $57,110 for entry-level positions to $131,380 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Anchorage, AK is 41.9% higher than the national median of $64,100.
Is Anchorage, AK a lucrative place for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselorss?
Yes, Anchorage, AK is a lucrative location for these professionals.The average salary of $90,940 significantly exceeds the national average, and the Cost of Living Index being at the national average means higher earnings translate to greater purchasing power.
Is Anchorage, AK a good place to live for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors?
The Cost of Living Index in Anchorage, AK is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
How does the Anchorage salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Anchorage, AK is $90,940, which is considerably higher than the national average of $64,100.
What does the Location Quotient of 1.35 mean for job seekers?
A Location Quotient of 1.35 indicates that this profession is more concentrated in Anchorage than the national average, suggesting a strong local demand and a potentially favorable job market for qualified counselors.
How does the Cost of Living in Anchorage affect the salary?
Anchorage's Cost of Living Index is 100, which is the national average. This means the higher salary of $90,940 offers strong purchasing power for counselors living in the city.
What is the total number of Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Anchorage?
There are approximately 670 Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors working in Anchorage, AK.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 670 employees in the Anchorage, AK area with a job density of 3.849 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 Anchorage, AK