Archaeologist Salaries

1. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $93,844
   In Seattle, professionals explore ancient sites and artifacts. Companies like the Burke Museum offer exciting opportunities. The city’s rich history provides many research chances.
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2. Honolulu, HI
   Average Salary: $93,757
   Honolulu offers a unique environment for those studying Polynesian history. With its tropical climate, the work can be both challenging and rewarding. Companies like Bishop Museum provide research and fieldwork.
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3. San Diego, CA
   Average Salary: $91,184
   San Diego combines coastal beauty with historical research. Professionals here often work on coastal and underwater sites. Archaeological firms in the area offer diverse projects.
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4. Phoenix, AZ
   Average Salary: $88,845
   Phoenix offers a mix of urban and desert landscapes for archaeological work. The city’s rich Native American history provides many research opportunities. Local universities often collaborate on projects.
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5. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $88,462
   San Francisco provides a vibrant setting for archaeologists. The city’s history includes many layers of cultural deposits. Working with institutions like the California Academy of Sciences can be rewarding.
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6. Sacramento, CA
   Average Salary: $82,916
   Sacramento is rich in historical sites and artifacts. The city’s diverse history offers a variety of research opportunities. Working with state agencies can provide unique insights.
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7. Portland, OR
   Average Salary: $81,469
   Portland offers a mix of urban and natural environments for archaeologists. The city’s history includes early settlers and indigenous peoples. Local museums and universities offer many opportunities.
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8. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $80,843
   Los Angeles provides a dynamic setting for archaeological work. The city’s diverse cultural history offers many research opportunities. Working with institutions like the Getty can be very rewarding.
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9. Fresno, CA
   Average Salary: $78,993
   Fresno offers a mix of rural and urban environments for archaeologists. The city’s history includes Native American and agricultural influences. Local universities often have research projects.
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10. Bakersfield, CA
    Average Salary: $76,919
    Bakersfield offers a unique blend of desert and urban landscapes for archaeologists. The city’s history includes early settlers and oil industry influences. Local institutions offer various research opportunities.
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1. US Bureau of Land Management
   Average Salary: $82,990
   The US Bureau of Land Management offers exciting opportunities for archaeologists. They work on projects across the country, focusing on preservation and research. Locations include many states, with offices in Washington, D.C., and various regional offices.
   

   
   

2. AECOM
   Average Salary: $82,154
   AECOM is a global consulting firm that provides archaeologists with diverse opportunities. They work on projects like cultural resource management and historical preservation. AECOM operates worldwide, with major offices in the U.S. and abroad.
   

   
   

3. ICF
   Average Salary: $79,133
   ICF offers rewarding positions for archaeologists focusing on environmental and cultural projects. They work on heritage conservation and site assessments. ICF has offices in many U.S. cities and internationally.
   

   
   

4. GEI Consultants
   Average Salary: $77,929
   GEI Consultants provides archaeologists with roles in cultural resource management and site assessments. They focus on ensuring projects comply with heritage laws. GEI operates in several U.S. states and internationally.
   

   
   

5. Stantec
   Average Salary: $74,435
   Stantec offers archaeologists positions in heritage conservation and environmental planning. They work on projects across the U.S. and globally. Major offices are in the U.S. and Canada.
   

   
   

6. Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson
   Average Salary: $73,511
   Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson provides archaeologists with opportunities in historic preservation and cultural resource management. They focus on ensuring the integrity of historical sites. Offices are in many U.S. states.
   

   
   

7. U.S. National Park Service
   Average Salary: $71,014
   The U.S. National Park Service offers archaeologists roles in preserving national heritage. They work on projects in all 50 states, focusing on historic sites. Major offices are in Washington, D.C., and various parks nationwide.
   

   
   

8. SWCA Environmental Consultants
   Average Salary: $69,241
   SWCA Environmental Consultants provides archaeologists with positions in environmental impact assessments and cultural resource management. They focus on balancing development and preservation. Offices are in several U.S. states.
   

   
   

9. WSP
   Average Salary: $67,150
   WSP offers archaeologists roles in environmental consulting and cultural resource management. They work on projects ensuring compliance with heritage laws. Offices are in many U.S. cities and internationally.
   

   
   

10. Tetra Tech
    Average Salary: $61,536
    Tetra Tech provides archaeologists with opportunities in environmental consulting and heritage preservation. They focus on sustainable practices and compliance. Offices are in many U.S. states and internationally.
    

To earn more as an archaeologist, consider enhancing specific skills and experiences. Specialization can lead to higher-paying roles. For example, those who focus on underwater archaeology or cultural resource management often command higher salaries. Experience matters as well. The more diverse and extensive the experience, the better. Working on high-profile projects can also boost earnings.

Networking plays a crucial role in advancing a career in archaeology. Connecting with professionals and attending conferences can open doors to higher-paying positions. Additionally, securing publications and presenting at events can increase visibility and earning potential. Higher education, such as a master's or doctorate, often leads to better-paying jobs. These advanced degrees can qualify archaeologists for specialized or academic roles.

Consider these factors to increase earning potential:

1. Specialize in a high-demand area like underwater or cultural resource management.
2. Accumulate extensive and diverse work experience.
3. Network with professionals in the field.
4. Gain visibility through publications and conference presentations.
5. Pursue higher education such as a master's or doctorate.