Benefits
Mining directly employed 5,900 Alaskans in 2023, with an average annual wage of $122,568—nearly twice the state’s private sector average. These jobs support 90+ communities across Alaska, from large cities to rural villages. Beyond direct employment, mining has a multiplier effect, creating thousands of additional jobs through business partnerships, supplier networks, and employee spending.
- 5,900 direct mining jobs | $695 million in wages
- 5,900 additional jobs supported through indirect and induced impacts
- Total economic impact: 11,800 jobs | $1.1 billion in wages statewide
Mining isn’t just an industry—it’s a source of career opportunities that sustain families and strengthen Alaska’s workforce.
Mining operations depend on Alaska-based businesses, creating a ripple effect that strengthens local economies. In 2023, mining companies spent $2.1 billion on goods and services, with more than 450 Alaska businesses providing $1.1 billion in equipment, materials, and support.
By keeping investments local, the mining industry ensures that its economic impact benefits Alaskan businesses, workers, and communities—not just outside interests.
Mining directly employed 5,900 Alaskans in 2023, with an average annual wage of $122,568—nearly twice the state’s private sector average. These jobs support 90+ communities across Alaska, from large cities to rural villages. Beyond direct employment, mining has a multiplier effect, creating thousands of additional jobs through business partnerships, supplier networks, and employee spending.
- 5,900 direct mining jobs | $695 million in wages
- 5,900 additional jobs supported through indirect and induced impacts
- Total economic impact: 11,800 jobs | $1.1 billion in wages statewide
Mining isn’t just an industry—it’s a source of career opportunities that sustain families and strengthen Alaska’s workforce.
Mining operations depend on Alaska-based businesses, creating a ripple effect that strengthens local economies. In 2023, mining companies spent $2.1 billion on goods and services, with more than 450 Alaska businesses providing $1.1 billion in equipment, materials, and support.
By keeping investments local, the mining industry ensures that its economic impact benefits Alaskan businesses, workers, and communities—not just outside interests.
Public Revenues That Fund Essential Services
Mining generates significant revenues that help fund schools, roads, emergency services, and public programs. In 2023, the industry contributed $136 million to the State of Alaska. Local governments also benefited, receiving $49.8 million in tax revenues in 2023, including:These revenues help maintain public services that Alaskans rely on every day.
- $34.8 million to the Northwest Arctic Borough
- $10.6 million to Fairbanks North Star Borough
- $4.2 million to the City & Borough of Juneau
Beyond wages and tax revenues, Alaska’s mining companies are committed to giving back. In 2023, Alaska’s mining industry contributed $5.7 million to more than 250 nonprofit organizations, supporting causes from education to healthcare.
- $1.5 million went to the University of Alaska and vocational training programs, investing in Alaska’s future workforce.
- $1.1 million was provided in support of civic, business, and industry organizations.
Through 7(i) and 7(j) royalty-sharing payments, all Alaska Native Corporations benefit from mining revenues. In 2023, these payments totaled $235 million, continuing a legacy of economic support that has surpassed $3.2 billion since 1989.
These revenues are distributed among Alaska Native regional and village corporations, helping fund cultural preservation, business development, and community programs.
Mining is a long-term investment in Alaska’s future, providing well-paying jobs, strengthening local economies, and supporting essential public services. The industry’s impact extends far beyond the mines—creating a strong foundation for communities across the state.
By developing Alaska’s resources responsibly, mining ensures a future of economic opportunity, self-sufficiency, and shared prosperity.
Beyond wages and tax revenues, Alaska’s mining companies are committed to giving back. In 2023, Alaska’s mining industry contributed $5.7 million to more than 250 nonprofit organizations, supporting causes from education to healthcare.
- $1.5 million went to the University of Alaska and vocational training programs, investing in Alaska’s future workforce.
- $1.1 million was provided in support of civic, business, and industry organizations.
Through 7(i) and 7(j) royalty-sharing payments, all Alaska Native Corporations benefit from mining revenues. In 2023, these payments totaled $235 million, continuing a legacy of economic support that has surpassed $3.2 billion since 1989.
These revenues are distributed among Alaska Native regional and village corporations, helping fund cultural preservation, business development, and community programs.
Mining is a long-term investment in Alaska’s future, providing well-paying jobs, strengthening local economies, and supporting essential public services. The industry’s impact extends far beyond the mines—creating a strong foundation for communities across the state.
By developing Alaska’s resources responsibly, mining ensures a future of economic opportunity, self-sufficiency, and shared prosperity.
