Position
Salary
Linguists have a strong understanding of languages, which is a valuable skill in many jobs. They can work in different areas, such as teaching, translating, and researching. With this skill set, linguists can find good-paying jobs. The average yearly salary for a linguist is about $85,584. This number can change based on experience and job type.
Here are some more details about linguist salaries. The numbers below show how many people earn different amounts. For example, the lowest 10% of linguists earn $57,460 or less. The highest 10% make $134,200 or more each year. Most linguists fall somewhere in the middle. Their pay depends on their role, location, and education.

Washington, DC
Average Salary: $100,673
Working as a linguist in Washington, DC offers many opportunities in government and international organizations. Companies like the CIA and State Department seek experts to decode foreign languages and cultures. The city's diverse population also drives demand for translation services.
Find Linguist jobs in Washington, DC
St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $95,556
In St. Louis, linguists can find rewarding roles in education and healthcare. Institutions such as Washington University employ language experts to support their programs. The city's multicultural communities benefit from translation and interpretation services.
Find Linguist jobs in St. Louis, MO
Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $90,398
Tampa presents a growing market for linguists, especially in tech and tourism. Companies like Amazon and local hospitality firms need skilled translators to assist international clients. The vibrant local culture offers plenty of opportunities for language professionals.
Find Linguist jobs in Tampa, FL
Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $89,556
Omaha provides a stable environment for linguists, with many opportunities in insurance and finance. Major companies such as Berkshire Hathaway often require language experts for global communication. Nonprofit organizations also seek help with multilingual outreach.
Find Linguist jobs in Omaha, NE
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $68,798
Seattle is a hub for tech companies, offering linguists many job opportunities. Firms like Microsoft and Amazon need professionals to bridge language gaps in their global operations. The city's diverse tech scene makes it an excellent place for language specialists.
Find Linguist jobs in Seattle, WA

CACI International
Average Salary: $133,592
CACI International offers exciting opportunities for Linguists in various locations, including Arlington, VA, and McLean, VA. They focus on providing translation and interpretation services for government and commercial clients.
Leidos
Average Salary: $114,406
Leidos provides a range of jobs for Linguists in areas like Falls Church, VA, and Washington, DC. They offer work in intelligence and defense, requiring language skills to support national security.
General Dynamics Information Technology
Average Salary: $101,773
General Dynamics Information Technology employs Linguists in Reston, VA, and other key locations. They offer diverse roles in information technology, focusing on government projects and services.
Valiant Integrated Services
Average Salary: $96,768
Valiant Integrated Services hires Linguists in Fairfax, VA, and other locations. They provide services in defense and intelligence, often working on classified projects.
FalconTek
Average Salary: $88,864
FalconTek employs Linguists in Springfield, VA, and nearby areas. They offer roles in government contracting and language services, supporting national security initiatives.
Metlang
Average Salary: $76,743
Metlang provides jobs for Linguists in Bethesda, MD, and other locations. They offer work in translation and interpretation services for government and private sectors.
KACE
Average Salary: $62,640
KACE hires Linguists in Bethesda, MD, and other areas. They focus on providing language services for government and commercial clients, emphasizing quality and accuracy.
Amazon.com
Average Salary: $62,542
Amazon.com offers opportunities for Linguists in Seattle, WA, and other locations. They provide language support for global operations, including translation and interpretation services.
KACE Company
Average Salary: $61,099
KACE Company employs Linguists in Bethesda, MD, and other locations. They focus on providing language services for government and commercial clients, emphasizing quality and accuracy.
LIS Solutions
Average Salary: $60,455
LIS Solutions offers jobs for Linguists in various locations. They provide language services for government and commercial clients, emphasizing quality and accuracy.
Linguists can find a variety of career paths that offer competitive salaries. Enhancing earnings often requires a mix of skills, experience, and strategic career moves. Focusing on the right areas can lead to significant pay increases. Here are some key factors that can help a linguist earn more.
First, specializing in high-demand languages can increase earning potential. Languages like Mandarin, Arabic, and Spanish are in high demand. Employers often pay more for fluency in these languages. Second, gaining certifications in translation or interpretation can boost income. Professional certifications validate skills and can lead to higher-paying jobs. Third, working in industries with higher salaries, such as tech or finance, can lead to better pay. Linguists in these fields often earn more due to the specialized nature of their work. Fourth, gaining experience in multiple languages can make a linguist more versatile and valuable. Employers often pay more for those who can work in several languages. Lastly, continuing education and staying current with industry trends can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Advanced degrees or specialized training can open doors to better-paying roles.
By focusing on these areas, linguists can enhance their skills and open up pathways to higher earnings.