Anchorage vs Fairbanks: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Anchorage, AK and Fairbanks, AK. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Anchorage, AK | Fairbanks, AK |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $171,943▲ | $147,973 |
| Hourly Rate | $82.67▲ | $71.15 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,504 | $85,824▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $106,924 | $119,193▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $209,534▲ | $177,567 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $210,739 | $213,672▲ |
| Total Employed | 30▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Anchorage, AK offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Fairbanks.
The salary gap between Anchorage and Fairbanks is $23,970 (16.20%). Anchorage's median is +22.28% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Anchorage spans $130,235,Fairbanks spans $127,848. 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 ($163,103 effective) pays 16.95% more than Fairbanks ($139,466 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 ($171,943/year)
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $163,103)
- ✓You prefer the Alaska area and lifestyle
Choose Fairbanks if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($213,672)
- ✓You prefer the Alaska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Anchorage grew 35.5% from 2020 to 2025, compared to -5.8% growth in Fairbanks over the same period.
Anchorage, AK
$123,230 (2020) → $167,000 (2025)
Fairbanks, AK
$152,590 (2024) → $143,719 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Anchorage, AK
Fairbanks, AK
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Anchorage or Fairbanks?
What is the hourly rate difference between Anchorage and Fairbanks?
Should I relocate from Anchorage to Fairbanks as a optometrist?
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Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% 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 Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov