Cosmetologists working in Alaska can expect a solid employment growth trend punctuated by a high number of annual jobs openings through 2022. According to the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, in 2012 the state employed 681 workers in cosmetology positions. By 2022, this number is projected to reach 755.
Between 2012 and 2022, the cosmetology workforce is expected to expand by 10.9%. This occupational expansion will trigger approximately 24 annual job openings throughout this projection period.
Cosmetologist Wage Averages in Alaska
In 2013, the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development found cosmetologists earning an average wage of $14.29/hr. Employees earning lower-end wages were paid $13.06/hr. while those earning higher-end wages were paid $15.52/hr.
However, since clients customarily tip cosmetologists, actual wage earnings are often greater than these averages indicate.
Wage percentiles for Alaskan cosmetologists in 2013 are as follows:
- 10th Percentile: $8.56/hr.
- Median Percentile: $12.42/hr.
- 90th Percentile: $22.01/hr.
Manicurist Wage Averages in Alaska
Cosmetologists may work as hairdressers, estheticians and manicurists. In Alaska, workers employed in these positions are required to obtain an occupational license from the State Board of Barbers and Hairdressers to legally practice.
In 2013, the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development found manicurists earning an average wage of $14.99/hr. Average wage percentiles were as follows:
- 10th Percentile: $8.83/hr.
- Median Percentile: $9.30/hr.
- 90th Percentile: $14.58/hr.
Cosmetologist Pay Average by Geographic Location
In May 2013, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics found cosmetologist pay averages varied according to geographic location of employment. These wage and salary difference are displayed in the data table below:
Manicurist Pay Averages in Anchorage
In May 2013, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics named Alaska the top paying state for manicurists in the country. The data table below details wage and salary averages for manicurists employed in Anchorage: