How much does a Archaeologist make?
Archaeologists explore the past to understand human history. They study artifacts, structures, and other remains. This work can lead to exciting discoveries. The average yearly salary for an archaeologist is around $74,139. This means they earn a good living for their efforts.
An archaeologist's salary can vary based on experience and location. Some earn less, while others earn more. The lowest 10% make about $42,000 a year. The top 10% earn over $131,000. Most archaeologists fall somewhere in the middle. Their work can take them to many different places, from deserts to underwater sites. This variety can make the job both challenging and rewarding.
What are the highest paying cities for a Archaeologist?

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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $92,983
In San Diego, professionals explore ancient sites along the coast. Companies like the San Diego Archaeological Center offer exciting opportunities.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $92,956
Honolulu provides a unique setting for those studying early Polynesian cultures. The Bishop Museum is a key place for archaeological work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $92,613
Seattle offers a mix of urban and natural environments for archaeological research. The Burke Museum is a prominent institution in the field.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $90,067
San Francisco's rich history makes it a great place for archaeologists. The California Academy of Sciences often collaborates on projects.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $88,959
Phoenix has a wealth of ancient Native American sites. The Arizona State Museum is a leading organization in the region.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $84,304
Anchorage offers opportunities to study early human settlements in Alaska. The University of Alaska Museum is a key research center.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $83,140
Sacramento provides access to diverse archaeological sites. The California State Capitol Museum is a notable place for research.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $82,213
Los Angeles offers a variety of sites from ancient to modern history. The Getty Conservation Institute is a major player in the field.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $78,870
Portland's mild climate and rich history make it ideal for archaeological work. The Oregon Historical Society often engages in related projects.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $78,571
Fresno has a mix of agricultural and urban archaeological sites. The Fresno County Historical Society supports related research.
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What are the best companies a Archaeologist can work for?

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Arcadis
Average Salary: $142,398
Arcadis offers exciting opportunities for archaeologists. They work on projects across the globe, focusing on cultural resource management. Locations include major cities in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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TRC
Average Salary: $89,798
TRC provides archaeologists with a variety of projects. They work on environmental assessments and historic preservation. Their projects are located in many states across the U.S.
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USDA NRCS
Average Salary: $85,939
USDA NRCS offers archaeologists roles in rural development projects. They focus on preserving cultural resources. Their work spans across the entire U.S.
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US Bureau of Land Management
Average Salary: $83,748
The US Bureau of Land Management provides archaeologists with opportunities to work on public lands. They focus on managing and preserving cultural resources. Their projects are nationwide.
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ICF
Average Salary: $78,661
ICF offers archaeologists roles in consulting projects. They work on environmental and cultural resource management. Their projects are located in many states across the U.S.
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Stantec
Average Salary: $75,848
Stantec provides archaeologists with a variety of projects. They work on infrastructure and environmental projects. Their projects are located in many states across the U.S.
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U.S. National Park Service
Average Salary: $73,835
The U.S. National Park Service offers archaeologists roles in preserving national parks. They focus on cultural resource management. Their projects are located in many states across the U.S.
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Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson
Average Salary: $73,511
Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson provides archaeologists with roles in engineering projects. They work on historic preservation and environmental assessments. Their projects are located in many states across the U.S.
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GEI Consultants
Average Salary: $68,000
GEI Consultants offers archaeologists roles in environmental consulting. They work on cultural resource management and historic preservation. Their projects are located in many states across the U.S.
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SWCA Environmental Consultants
Average Salary: $67,502
SWCA Environmental Consultants provides archaeologists with roles in environmental consulting. They work on cultural resource management and historic preservation. Their projects are located in many states across the U.S.
How to earn more as a Archaeologist?
Archaeologists can find rewarding work in many areas. They can earn more by focusing on certain factors. These include gaining specialized skills, expanding their education, and seeking out high-demand areas. Each of these can lead to higher earnings.
Specialized skills can make an archaeologist more valuable. Skills in areas like GIS mapping, underwater archaeology, or forensic archaeology can help. These skills can open up more job opportunities. They can also lead to higher-paying positions. Expanding education through advanced degrees can also help. A master's or Ph.D. can lead to higher-paying jobs. These degrees can also lead to roles in research and academia. Seeking out high-demand areas can also increase earnings. Urban areas with a lot of development can offer more job opportunities. Remote areas with unique sites can also offer higher pay.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more as an archaeologist:
- Gain specialized skills in areas like GIS mapping or underwater archaeology.
- Expand education through advanced degrees like a master's or Ph.D.
- Seek out high-demand areas, such as urban areas with development or remote areas with unique sites.
- Consider roles in research and academia, which can offer higher pay.
- Network with other professionals in the field to learn about job opportunities and salary trends.



