How much does a Captain make?
The role of a Captain is both demanding and rewarding. These professionals earn a good salary, reflecting their level of responsibility and expertise. On average, a Captain makes about $61,611 a year. This average can vary widely depending on many factors.
Captains can find their salaries falling in different brackets. For instance, some Captains earn around $46,818, while others may make up to $275,000. The highest earners often work in sectors such as aviation, shipping, or specialized industries. Here are some approximate salary ranges:
- 10th percentile: $24,000
- 25th percentile: $46,818
- 50th percentile (median): $69,636
- 75th percentile: $138,091
- 90th percentile: $229,364
- Top 10%: $275,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Captain?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $149,484
In San Jose, working as a mariner means navigating the tech-driven waters with major shipping companies like Maersk and UPS. The area's strong economy offers a stable environment for career growth in maritime logistics.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $121,067
Indianapolis provides a robust maritime scene, with companies like Crowley Maritime and Matson Navigation employing skilled mariners. The city's blend of tradition and innovation offers a dynamic workplace for those in the industry.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $112,870
Jacksonville's port is a major hub, with employers like Crowley and American Commercial Barge Line seeking experienced mariners. The city's long maritime history and growing industries offer solid career opportunities.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $97,936
Dallas, with its expanding logistics sector, offers great prospects for mariners. Companies such as Kirby Inland Marine and TOTE Maritime run major operations here, making it a key spot for maritime careers.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $92,912
Salt Lake City's maritime industry benefits from its central location and growing business. Marine experts find opportunities with companies like Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company, offering a mix of challenges and rewards.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $91,863
Orlando, known for tourism, also boasts a strong maritime industry. With ports bustling with activity, mariners can work for companies like Crowley and American Commercial Barge Line, enjoying a vibrant career in a lively city.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $89,641
Seattle's maritime industry is vibrant, with companies like Foss Maritime and Crowley offering dynamic roles. The city's maritime heritage and scenic beauty create a unique work environment for mariners.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $88,171
Los Angeles, a major shipping hub, provides diverse opportunities for mariners. Employers like American President Lines and Matson Navigation offer varied experiences, making the city a key spot for maritime careers.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $81,704
Denver's maritime industry benefits from its central location. With companies like Crowley and Matson Navigation, mariners can enjoy a mix of challenges and rewards in a city known for its mountain views and strong economy.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $79,294
Austin offers a unique blend of tech and maritime opportunities. Companies like Kirby Inland Marine and American Commercial Barge Line provide stable careers, allowing mariners to enjoy the city's vibrant culture and strong job market.
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What are the best companies a Captain can work for?

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Jet Aviation
Average Salary: $285,463
Jet Aviation offers some of the highest-paying Captain jobs in the industry. They operate in several locations, including Switzerland, Singapore, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates. Job seekers can expect competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and opportunities for career growth.
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SOLAIRUS Aviation
Average Salary: $275,000
SOLAIRUS Aviation is known for offering excellent compensation packages to Captains. They have operations in Switzerland, the United States, and South Africa. They provide a supportive work environment and opportunities for pilots to work on a global scale.
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ATI JET
Average Salary: $148,824
ATI JET is a prominent aviation company that offers competitive salaries for Captains. They have operations in the United States, providing pilots with various flying opportunities. The company emphasizes safety and professional development.
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Amentum
Average Salary: $105,490
Amentum offers a strong compensation package for Captains, with operations in the United States. They focus on providing high-quality aviation services, ensuring pilots have a rewarding and stable career.
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State of Arkansas
Average Salary: $92,309
The State of Arkansas provides competitive salaries for Captain positions. They operate within the state, offering pilots the chance to serve their community with a rewarding career in aviation.
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Virginia Department of Corrections
Average Salary: $86,853
The Virginia Department of Corrections offers a stable salary for Captains working with the department. They focus on maintaining public safety and offer a supportive work environment.
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The GEO Group, Inc.
Average Salary: $74,643
The GEO Group, Inc. provides competitive salaries for Captain positions. They focus on delivering quality aviation services, ensuring pilots have a rewarding career path.
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ALLEN MARINE TOURS
Average Salary: $63,670
ALLEN MARINE TOURS offers a good salary for Captain positions, focusing on providing quality maritime services. They operate in various locations, offering pilots diverse opportunities.
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JSX
Average Salary: $62,273
JSX offers a competitive salary for Captain positions, focusing on providing reliable and convenient air travel. They operate in the United States, offering pilots a chance to serve a growing community.
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Securitas
Average Salary: $61,291
Securitas provides a stable salary for Captain positions, with operations in several countries. They focus on providing security services, offering pilots a rewarding career path.
How to earn more as a Captain?
Becoming a captain in many industries, such as maritime or aviation, can lead to a rewarding career with the potential for significant earnings. To maximize income in this role, consider the following factors that can lead to higher pay.
First, gaining more experience is key. Many employers value seasoned captains who can navigate complex situations with ease. Experience often leads to promotions and higher-paying positions. Second, obtaining advanced certifications can also boost earnings. Special licenses and additional training can make a captain more valuable to an employer. Third, networking with industry professionals can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional associations can provide connections and job leads. Fourth, choosing the right company can make a big difference. Some employers offer higher salaries and better benefits to attract top talent. Finally, maintaining a good reputation is essential. Captains known for their reliability and leadership often earn more due to their strong performance record.
Investing time in these areas can help a captain earn more. By gaining experience, obtaining certifications, networking, selecting the right employer, and maintaining a good reputation, a captain can significantly boost their income.
- Gain more experience
- Obtain advanced certifications
- Network with industry professionals
- Choose the right employer
- Maintain a good reputation



