Juneau vs Sitka: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Juneau, AK and Sitka, AK. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Juneau, AK | Sitka, AK |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $147,487▲ | $137,833 |
| Hourly Rate | $70.91▲ | $66.27 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,542▲ | $82,759 |
| 25th Percentile | $123,904▲ | $114,543 |
| 75th Percentile | $173,219▲ | $161,550 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $206,790▲ | $190,822 |
| Total Employed | 6▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Juneau, AK offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sitka.
The salary gap between Juneau and Sitka is $9,654 (7.00%). Juneau's median is +4.89% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Juneau spans $121,248,Sitka spans $108,063. Juneau 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, Juneau ($139,008 effective) pays 7.00% more than Sitka ($129,909 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Juneau if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($147,487/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($206,790)
- ✓Larger job market (6 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $139,008)
- ✓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, optometrist salaries in Juneau grew -5.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -5.8% growth in Sitka over the same period.
Juneau, AK
$152,089 (2024) → $143,247 (2025)
Sitka, AK
$142,133 (2024) → $133,870 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Juneau, AK
Frequently Asked Questions
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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