Position
Salary
Archaeologists who study human history through artifacts earn a good salary. The average yearly salary for archaeologists is $72,552. This means most archaeologists make between $41,500 and $137,500 each year. Those at the beginning of their career usually earn on the lower end. Experienced archaeologists earn closer to the higher end.
The salary can vary based on the job. Some archaeologists work in universities and make around $50,227. Others work in government agencies and earn about $58,955. Those who work for private companies might make up to $67,682. Top earners in the field, often with significant experience or in leadership roles, can make more than $120,000 a year.

San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $102,017
Professionals here explore ancient civilizations near the coast. They work for both government agencies and private firms. Sites like Cabrillo National Monument offer hands-on experience.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $93,636
In Seattle, archaeologists examine early Native American cultures. They often collaborate with universities and research institutions. The Burke Museum offers great research opportunities.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $85,558
In San Francisco, archaeologists focus on California’s rich history. They work with cultural preservation groups and universities. The California Academy of Sciences is a key workplace.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $83,540
Working in Sacramento, archaeologists uncover the state’s historical sites. They often partner with state agencies for preservation projects. The California State Capitol Museum is a significant site.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $83,063
In Los Angeles, archaeologists delve into Native American heritage. They often work for private firms specializing in cultural resource management. The Getty Villa provides rich research opportunities.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $81,254
In Portland, professionals explore Native American history and pioneer settlements. They often work with non-profits and educational institutions. The Oregon Historical Society is a key collaborator.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $78,267
Bakersfield offers a focus on local historical sites and Native American heritage. Archaeologists here work with local government and educational institutions. Research is often conducted in partnership with local museums.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $75,302
In Phoenix, archaeologists study ancient civilizations and Native American cultures. They work with universities and government agencies. The Heard Museum is a notable site for research.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $73,380
Houston’s archaeologists explore coastal and Native American sites. They often work for cultural resource management firms. The Houston Museum of Natural Science provides valuable research opportunities.
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Reno, NV
Average Salary: $71,939
Reno offers a focus on the history of the Great Basin. Archaeologists here work with universities and government agencies. The Nevada State Museum is a key institution for research.
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Arcadis
Average Salary: $140,832
Arcadis offers exciting opportunities for archaeologists. They work on a variety of projects around the world. Locations include major cities in North America, Europe, and Asia.
GEI Consultants
Average Salary: $91,167
GEI Consultants provides many archaeology jobs. They focus on preservation and research. They operate primarily in the United States with offices in several states.
AECOM
Average Salary: $85,688
AECOM is a global company that hires archaeologists. They work on historic preservation and site assessments. Their offices span across Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Americas.
Stantec
Average Salary: $72,957
Stantec offers rewarding archaeology roles. They work on cultural resource projects. Their team works in offices across North America, Europe, and Australia.
U.S. National Park Service
Average Salary: $72,445
The U.S. National Park Service provides archaeologists with a chance to work on historic sites. They focus on preserving America’s heritage. The service operates in all 50 states.
WSP
Average Salary: $67,082
WSP offers diverse archaeology opportunities. They focus on environmental and cultural resources. They have offices in many countries including the U.S., Canada, and the UK.
Tetra Tech
Average Salary: $64,615
Tetra Tech provides archaeology jobs that focus on environmental consulting. They work in many countries. Their offices are in North America, Europe, and Asia.
SWCA Environmental Consultants
Average Salary: $63,492
SWCA Environmental Consultants offers archaeology roles with a focus on ecological studies. They operate in the western United States.
Archaeologists who seek higher earnings should focus on several key factors. One is gaining specialized skills. Advanced training in areas like GIS (Geographic Information Systems) or underwater archaeology can make an archaeologist more valuable. Another important factor is securing funding. Archaeologists who can attract grants or work for well-funded projects often earn more.
Networking also plays a critical role. Building relationships with other professionals and organizations can lead to better job opportunities and higher-paying positions. Taking on leadership roles and becoming a team supervisor can increase salary. Finally, advancing education can help. Those with master’s degrees or Ph.Ds often find higher-paying jobs and greater responsibilities.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more: