Marine Biologist Salary in Alaska
2025 Average – Entry to Mid-Level
Marine Biologist Salary in Alaska (2025)
As of 2025, the average Marine Biologist salary in Alaska is $46,735 per year, which works out to approximately $3,895 per month, $898 per week, or $22.47 per hour.
Alaska offers one of the most dynamic environments for marine biology careers in the United States. With its vast coastline, diverse marine ecosystems, and active research centers, Alaska provides marine biologists opportunities in ocean conservation, fisheries management, and wildlife research.
Top 10 Highest Paying Cities for Marine Biologist Jobs in Alaska
| City | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nome | $53,833 | $4,486 | $1,035 | $25.88 |
| Sitka | $52,278 | $4,356 | $1,005 | $25.13 |
| Soldotna | $47,255 | $3,937 | $908 | $22.72 |
| Kodiak | $46,332 | $3,861 | $891 | $22.27 |
| Ketchikan | $46,146 | $3,845 | $887 | $22.19 |
| Juneau | $45,987 | $3,832 | $884 | $22.11 |
| Homer | $45,119 | $3,759 | $867 | $21.69 |
| Badger | $44,491 | $3,707 | $855 | $21.39 |
| Fairbanks | $44,490 | $3,707 | $855 | $21.39 |
| College | $44,483 | $3,706 | $855 | $21.39 |
Insights:
- Nome ranks as the highest-paying city, offering salaries 15.2% higher than the state average.
- Sitka and Soldotna also stand out with competitive pay and strong employment opportunities in marine conservation and research.
- Salary differences across Alaska are modest, with only a 19% variation between the top and bottom cities, reflecting a relatively stable pay range statewide.
While higher wages are available in coastal towns, marine biologists should also consider factors like living costs and job availability, as opportunities may be concentrated in specific regions.
Top 5 Best Paying Related Marine Biologist Jobs in Alaska
| Job Title | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biologist | $96,283 | $8,023 | $1,851 | $46.29 |
| Environmental Biology | $90,596 | $7,549 | $1,742 | $43.56 |
| Biology | $71,457 | $5,954 | $1,374 | $34.35 |
| Biology Teaching | $56,205 | $4,683 | $1,080 | $27.02 |
| Medical Biology | $48,509 | $4,042 | $932 | $23.32 |
Key Takeaways:
- Biologist and Environmental Biology positions lead the pay scale, offering salaries nearly double that of the average marine biologist in Alaska.
- Academic roles such as Biology Teaching provide stable income with opportunities for career advancement.
- Medical and environmental biology fields are growing due to Alaska’s focus on sustainability and wildlife health.
Career Outlook for Marine Biologists in Alaska
Alaska remains a prime location for marine biology research, given its proximity to the Arctic and the North Pacific Ocean. Professionals often work with organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), University of Alaska Fairbanks, and Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
The demand for experts in climate change impact studies, marine species monitoring, and fisheries management is expected to increase steadily through 2030. Those with experience in data analytics, GIS mapping, and field research can expect better pay and long-term career growth.
