Biologist Salaries

Position

Salary

How much does a Biologist make?

The average salary for a Biologist is $69,748 per year in the US.

Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Biologist positions, showing an average salary of $69,748 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Biologist positions, showing an average salary of $69,748 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Biologist positions, showing an average salary of $69,748 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Biologist positions, showing an average salary of $69,748 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Biologists study living organisms and their relationships with each other and their environments. This work can lead to exciting careers in various fields. The salary for a biologist depends on their experience and the area they specialize in. Many biologists start with an entry-level salary, which can be modest but offers room for growth.

The average yearly salary for a biologist is around $69,748. Some biologists earn less, especially early in their careers. Others, especially those with more experience or in specialized roles, earn more. For example, senior biologists or those with a PhD can make over $146,000 a year. These higher salaries reflect the value of advanced degrees and experience in the field.

Here are some average salaries for biologists at different experience levels:

Bottom 10% earn about $38,000.
Middle 50% earn between $47,893 and $97,356.
Top 10% earn about $146,000 or more.

What are the highest paying cities for a Biologist?

Biologists who seek higher pay can find good opportunities in cities like Washington, DC, and Seattle, WA. In Washington, DC, the average salary hits a high of $122,854. Seattle offers a strong $100,140. Both locations have a strong demand for biological research and environmental work, offering biologists a chance for career growth and competitive salaries. In addition to Washington, DC, and Seattle, WA, cities such as San Diego, CA, and Baltimore, MD, also provide promising salary prospects. San Diego pays an average of $99,773, while Baltimore offers $99,447. These cities have thriving industries that depend on biological research and innovation, making them attractive for ambitious biologists.

Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Biologist jobs, highlighting Washington, DC with the highest at $122,854 and Atlanta, GA with the lowest at $84,290.

Washington, DC
Average Salary: $122,854
In Washington, DC, individuals in this field often work for government agencies. The presence of numerous research institutions offers diverse opportunities. Expect to engage in public health, environmental policy, and agricultural studies.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $100,140
Seattle stands out with its strong focus on biotechnology. Companies like IDEO and biotech startups drive innovation. Professionals here explore marine biology and environmental conservation.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $99,773
San Diego boasts a vibrant life science sector. With companies like Illumina and Scripps, opportunities in marine biology are abundant. The city’s research institutions also contribute to biotechnology advancements.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $99,447
Baltimore’s health research scene is thriving. Institutions like Johns Hopkins offer numerous research opportunities. The city supports work in epidemiology and public health.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $95,006
Fort Collins is a hub for environmental research. Home to Colorado State University, it provides ample opportunities in agriculture and wildlife studies. The city's focus on sustainability attracts many professionals.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $90,420
Salt Lake City offers a mix of public and private sector opportunities. The University of Utah and local biotech companies create a dynamic environment for research and development.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $90,300
Los Angeles has a diverse job market with opportunities in pharmaceuticals and environmental studies. Companies like Amgen offer exciting career paths. The city’s rich ecosystems provide unique research settings.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $86,907
Portland’s green initiatives make it a great place for environmental biologists. The city’s focus on sustainability supports research in conservation and public health.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $84,507
Boston’s academic institutions, including Harvard and MIT, offer numerous research opportunities. The city’s healthcare and biotechnology sectors provide varied career options.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $84,290
Atlanta’s strong healthcare and research sectors create many opportunities. CDC and local universities drive advancements in public health and environmental science.
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What are the best companies a Biologist can work for?

Biologists looking for well-paid jobs have several great companies to consider. Eli Lilly offers the highest average salary at $115,487 per year. Other top options include Environmental Science Associates and Stantec, which provide competitive salaries as well. These companies value biological expertise and are ready to reward it well. Environmental Resources Management, Dudek, and AECOM also offer attractive salaries for biologists. Working in these firms can lead to a rewarding and financially stable career.

Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Biologist jobs, highlighting Eli Lilly with the highest at $115,487 and HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc with the lowest at $68,333.

Eli Lilly
Average Salary: $115,487
Eli Lilly offers exciting opportunities for Biologists. They work on cutting-edge research and development. Locations include Indianapolis, Indiana; Basingstoke, UK; and other research sites.
Environmental Science Associates
Average Salary: $96,138
At Environmental Science Associates, Biologists conduct field and lab research. They focus on environmental impact studies. This company operates in several locations in the United States.
Stantec
Average Salary: $87,086
Stantec provides diverse roles for Biologists. They work on projects related to environmental consulting. The company has offices across the United States and several international locations.
Environmental Resources Management
Average Salary: $81,494
Environmental Resources Management seeks Biologists for environmental consulting and analysis. They work in major cities across the U.S. and internationally.
Dudek
Average Salary: $78,093
Dudek offers Biologists roles in environmental consulting and project management. They operate in several locations across the U.S. and internationally.
AECOM
Average Salary: $75,118
AECOM provides many opportunities for Biologists in environmental consulting and infrastructure projects. They operate in various locations worldwide.
ATCC
Average Salary: $73,462
ATCC offers Biologists roles in research and development. They focus on cell biology and biotechnology. The company is headquartered in Manassas, Virginia, with international sites.
State of Washington
Average Salary: $70,757
The State of Washington offers Biologists roles in various environmental and conservation projects. They operate in several locations across the state.
Environmental Conservation, Department of
Average Salary: $69,451
The Environmental Conservation Department provides Biologists with roles in conservation and research. They operate in several locations within the state.
HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc
Average Salary: $68,333
HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc. offers Biologists roles in environmental consulting and planning. They operate in several locations across the U.S.

How to earn more as a Biologist?

A Biologist has many opportunities to increase earnings. Focus on areas that bring value and growth. Increasing knowledge and skills can lead to better positions. Taking the right steps can help raise income.

Consider these key factors to boost earnings. An advanced degree can open higher-paying jobs. Specialized skills, such as bioinformatics or genetic engineering, are in demand. Professional certifications can enhance credibility. Networking with industry professionals can lead to better opportunities. Continuing education can keep skills current and competitive.

Biologists who invest in their career see rewards. The right education, skills, and network can lead to higher pay. Stay curious and keep learning. This path can make a big difference in earnings.

Get an advanced degree to access higher-paying jobs.
Develop specialized skills like bioinformatics or genetic engineering.
Obtain professional certifications to enhance credibility.
Network with industry professionals for better opportunities.
Pursue continuing education to stay current and competitive.

How much does a Biologist make?

What are the highest paying cities for a Biologist?

What are the best companies a Biologist can work for?

How to earn more as a Biologist?

Currently 98 Biologist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Biologist in the US?

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