How much does a Biologist make?
Biologists study living organisms and their relationships with each other and their environments. They earn a decent income across different experience levels. For entry-level biologists, the average yearly salary sits around $35,780. With a few years of experience, this figure can rise to around $55,993. As biologists gain more experience, they see higher salaries, with those in the top 10% earning upwards of $146,950 a year.
Salary ranges can vary based on the biologist's specialty and where they work. Some common areas for biologists include research and development, environmental science, and healthcare. Each of these fields offers different salary ranges. For example, biologists working in research and development often earn higher salaries compared to those in environmental science. This is due to the more technical and data-driven nature of their work.
What are the highest paying cities for a Biologist?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $118,576
In Washington, DC, professionals enjoy a blend of scientific research and policy engagement. Many opportunities exist with organizations like the National Institutes of Health. It's a hub where science meets government, providing a unique environment for impactful research.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $106,382
San Diego offers a vibrant marine biology scene. With its coastal location, many jobs involve research and conservation efforts. Companies like Scripps Institution of Oceanography provide exciting work in a beautiful setting.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $106,307
Baltimore presents a mix of academic and medical research opportunities. Johns Hopkins University is a prominent employer. Working here means contributing to significant medical discoveries in a historic city.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $99,675
Seattle's biotech and tech industries offer diverse opportunities. The city's vibrant ecosystem supports research in genetics and environmental science. Companies like Ibis Biosciences provide cutting-edge work.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $94,255
In Los Angeles, biologists work in diverse fields from marine life to public health. The city's varied environments make it a hotspot for ecological and environmental studies. Companies like The Wrigley Company provide innovative research opportunities.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $89,296
Fresno offers agricultural and environmental research roles. Its location in the Central Valley makes it ideal for studying crops and local ecosystems. It's a place where fieldwork is crucial and rewarding.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $88,723
Honolulu’s unique marine environment makes it perfect for oceanic studies. Biologists here often work on coral reefs and marine biodiversity. NOAA and local universities provide excellent research opportunities.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $88,332
Bakersfield offers roles in agricultural biology and environmental science. The city’s agricultural landscape provides many opportunities for fieldwork and applied research. Local farms and universities are key employers.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $87,514
Portland’s strong emphasis on sustainability creates many roles in environmental biology. The city supports research in green technology and conservation. Local NGOs and universities are active employers.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $84,414
In Sacramento, biologists work on water quality and environmental policy. The capital city offers roles that combine scientific research with government work. Agencies like the California Department of Water Resources are prominent employers.
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What are the best companies a Biologist can work for?

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Eli Lilly and Company
Average Salary: $121,435
Eli Lilly and Company offers exciting opportunities for biologists. They work in many locations, including Indianapolis, Indiana, and San Francisco, California. At Eli Lilly, biologists research and develop medicines to improve people's health.
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GAP Solutions, Inc.
Average Salary: $112,762
GAP Solutions, Inc. provides a variety of biologist roles. They operate in places like Fairfax, Virginia, and San Antonio, Texas. Here, biologists often work on projects for government agencies, focusing on environmental and health research.
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Dudek
Average Salary: $89,486
Dudek has biologist positions in multiple cities, including Chicago, Illinois, and Boston, Massachusetts. They focus on design, engineering, and consulting. Biologists at Dudek work on projects that help protect and restore natural environments.
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Bancroft Construction Services, LLC
Average Salary: $87,429
Bancroft Construction Services, LLC offers biologist roles in areas such as Seattle, Washington, and Portland, Oregon. They work on construction projects that require environmental assessments and planning.
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Tetra Tech
Average Salary: $81,127
Tetra Tech provides biologist positions in cities like Denver, Colorado, and Raleigh, North Carolina. They work on projects related to water, environment, and infrastructure. Biologists here help improve the quality of the environment.
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Environmental Research Group
Average Salary: $78,233
The Environmental Research Group employs biologists in locations such as Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Oakland, California. They focus on environmental consulting and research. Biologists here conduct studies and provide recommendations to protect natural resources.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $73,680
The State of Washington offers biologist jobs in cities like Olympia, Washington, and Seattle, Washington. They work on public health and environmental protection projects. Biologists here focus on research and conservation efforts.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $72,858
AECOM has biologist positions in cities like Los Angeles, California, and New York, New York. They work on projects related to environmental consulting and infrastructure. Biologists at AECOM help develop solutions for environmental challenges.
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State of Maine
Average Salary: $68,778
The State of Maine offers biologist roles in Augusta, Maine, and Portland, Maine. They work on environmental protection and public health projects. Biologists here conduct research and implement conservation strategies.
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SWCA Environmental Consultants
Average Salary: $66,657
SWCA Environmental Consultants provides biologist positions in Reno, Nevada, and Denver, Colorado. They focus on environmental consulting and research. Biologists here work on projects to protect and restore natural habitats.
How to earn more as a Biologist?
Biologists can explore various avenues to increase their earnings. They can enhance their skills through advanced education and experience. Specialization in high-demand areas often leads to higher pay. Working in industries such as biotechnology or pharmaceuticals can also provide better compensation. Networking within the field and seeking mentorship can uncover opportunities for advancement and higher salaries.
Biologists can boost their earnings by gaining experience and advancing their careers. Positions with more responsibility, such as management roles, typically offer higher salaries. Seeking out projects that require specialized knowledge can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Relocation to areas with a higher cost of living and demand for biologists can also result in increased earnings. Actively seeking promotions and staying updated on industry trends ensures continued growth in salary.
Consider these factors to increase your earnings as a biologist:
- Advance education and certifications
- Gain experience in high-demand areas
- Seek out specialized roles
- Network and seek mentorship
- Relocate to high-paying regions



