Anchorage vs Sitka: Nurse Anesthetist Salary (2026)
Compare nurse anesthetist salaries between Anchorage, AK and Sitka, AK. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Anchorage, AK | Sitka, AK |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $255,438▲ | $227,038 |
| Hourly Rate | $122.81▲ | $109.16 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $154,358 | $162,403▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $211,897▲ | $205,708 |
| 75th Percentile | $318,172▲ | $273,829 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $395,930▲ | $304,624 |
| Total Employed | 65▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Anchorage, AK offers better overall compensation for nurse anesthetists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sitka.
The salary gap between Anchorage and Sitka is $28,400 (12.51%). Anchorage's median is +2.63% compared to the US national median of $248,893.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Anchorage spans $241,572,Sitka spans $142,221. Anchorage has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Anchorage ($240,752 effective) pays 12.51% more than Sitka ($213,985 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Anchorage if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($255,438/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($395,930)
- ✓Larger job market (65 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $240,752)
- ✓You prefer the Alaska area and lifestyle
Choose Sitka if…
- ✓You prefer the Alaska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, nurse anesthetist salaries in Anchorage grew -6.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -6.3% growth in Sitka over the same period.
Anchorage, AK
$259,167 (2024) → $242,812 (2025)
Sitka, AK
$230,353 (2024) → $215,816 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Anchorage, AK
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Alexandra Johnson, MSN, CRNA
Career Analyst
Alexandra Johnson has 10 years of experience as a nurse anesthetist. She specializes in anesthesia for orthopedic surgeries. She works in a regional medical center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.20% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Alexandra Johnson, MSN, CRNA, a licensed nurse anesthetist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov