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How much does a Meteorologist make?

The average salary for a Meteorologist is $105,513 per year in the US.

A career in meteorology can be both exciting and rewarding. On average, meteorologists earn $105,513 per year. This number can vary based on experience, location, and the type of employer. Some may earn less, while others can earn significantly more.

Here’s a closer look at the average salaries across different levels of experience:

  • Entry-level meteorologists: $40,000
  • Experienced meteorologists: $120,909
  • Top-tier meteorologists: $218,000

The pay scale shows that with more experience and a proven track record, the salary can increase. This field offers a path to substantial earnings for those who build their skills and expertise.

View Meteorologist jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Meteorologist?

Boston, MA, often stands out for its high demand and competitive salaries in meteorology. With a strong focus on climate research, job seekers can expect average salaries around $165,515. Dallas, TX, follows closely, offering a robust market for meteorologists with a promising average salary of approximately $135,844. For those looking to blend city life with a lucrative career, these cities provide excellent opportunities. In addition to Boston and Dallas, cities like Chicago, IL, and Portland, OR, offer substantial salaries for meteorologists. Chicago boasts an average salary of $132,732, attracting professionals with its diverse climate patterns. Portland, OR, offers an average of $123,703, with its unique weather conditions presenting both challenges and growth opportunities for meteorological careers. These cities continue to be attractive for those seeking high-paying roles in meteorology.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Meteorologist jobs, highlighting Boston, MA with the highest at $165,515 and Minneapolis, MN with the lowest at $108,856.
  1. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $165,515
    In Boston, weather experts work with renowned organizations like the National Weather Service. The city’s diverse weather patterns offer a rich learning experience. Professionals here help residents stay prepared for New England’s varied seasons.
    Find Meteorologist jobs in Boston, MA


  2. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $135,844
    Dallas offers a dynamic environment for those studying the weather. Working with companies like The Weather Channel, professionals gain insights into the region’s unique climate. They help the community prepare for severe weather events.
    Find Meteorologist jobs in Dallas, TX


  3. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $132,732
    Chicago’s weather experts are key in forecasting the unpredictable Midwestern climate. With organizations like ABC 7 Chicago, they play a vital role in keeping residents informed. Their work is crucial during harsh winter storms and summer heatwaves.
    Find Meteorologist jobs in Chicago, IL


  4. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $123,703
    In Portland, weather professionals enjoy a mild climate while working with local media outlets. The city’s mix of rain and sunshine provides diverse forecasting challenges. They help keep Portlanders ready for any weather change.
    Find Meteorologist jobs in Portland, OR


  5. Anchorage, AK
    Average Salary: $122,115
    Anchorage offers a unique setting for weather experts, dealing with extreme conditions. Working for entities like the National Weather Service, professionals here track severe weather. Their forecasts are vital for public safety in Alaska’s challenging climate.
    Find Meteorologist jobs in Anchorage, AK


  6. Charlotte, NC
    Average Salary: $114,673
    Charlotte’s weather experts work with local TV stations to inform the community. The city’s varied weather offers many forecasting challenges. They play a key role in keeping residents prepared for storms and other weather events.
    Find Meteorologist jobs in Charlotte, NC


  7. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $113,370
    Seattle’s weather professionals face unique challenges with frequent rain and gray skies. Working with companies like KING 5, they help residents navigate the Pacific Northwest’s weather. Their forecasts are crucial for daily life in the city.
    Find Meteorologist jobs in Seattle, WA


  8. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $112,997
    San Francisco’s weather experts deal with a mild, often foggy climate. They work with major media outlets to provide accurate forecasts. Their work is vital for the city’s numerous outdoor events and tourism.
    Find Meteorologist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  9. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $111,974
    In Houston, weather professionals face a mix of hot, humid weather and severe storms. Working with local news stations, they help the community stay safe. Their forecasts are crucial during hurricane season and heatwaves.
    Find Meteorologist jobs in Houston, TX


  10. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $108,856
    Minneapolis’s weather experts deal with cold winters and hot summers. They work with local media to keep residents informed. Their forecasts help the community prepare for blizzards and other severe weather.
    Find Meteorologist jobs in Minneapolis, MN

What are the best companies a Meteorologist can work for?

Synchrony Financial Employees Health Services offers one of the best-paying opportunities for meteorologists, with average salaries reaching up to $200,000 annually. The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) also provides competitive salaries, with meteorologists earning about $125,968 per year. CBS News offers another attractive option, paying around $119,095 on average.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Meteorologist jobs, highlighting SYNCHRONY FINANCIAL EMPLOYEES HEALTH SERVICES with the highest at $200,000 and Nexstar Media Group, Inc. with the lowest at $66,269.
  1. SYNCHRONY FINANCIAL EMPLOYEES HEALTH SERVICES
    Average Salary: $200,000
    SYNCHRONY FINANCIAL EMPLOYEES HEALTH SERVICES offers top-tier salaries for Meteorologists. They value skilled meteorologists who analyze weather patterns to support business operations. This company operates nationwide.


  2. NOAA: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration
    Average Salary: $125,968
    NOAA provides competitive pay for Meteorologists. They work on important projects that impact the entire nation. Their operations span across various locations in the United States, including Washington, D.C., and many coastal cities.


  3. Fehr & Peers
    Average Salary: $125,000
    Fehr & Peers offers attractive salaries for Meteorologists. They focus on delivering expert weather insights to clients. The company operates in several states, including Texas and California.


  4. CBS News
    Average Salary: $119,095
    CBS News pays well for Meteorologists. They provide opportunities to cover significant weather events. The company is headquartered in New York City and has affiliates across the country.


  5. U.S. Bank
    Average Salary: $109,122
    U.S. Bank offers good salaries for Meteorologists. They use weather data to support business decisions. This bank has a strong presence in many major cities, including Minneapolis and San Francisco.


  6. TEGNA
    Average Salary: $91,588
    TEGNA provides reasonable pay for Meteorologists. They focus on delivering local weather news. The company operates in various cities, including Atlanta and Seattle.


  7. Nexstar Media Group, Inc.
    Average Salary: $66,269
    Nexstar Media Group, Inc. offers salaries for Meteorologists. They produce local weather forecasts for many communities. The company has stations in numerous states, including Illinois and Oklahoma.

How to earn more as a Meteorologist?

Earning more as a meteorologist can come from various factors. Focus on these key areas to boost your salary and career prospects. Increasing your knowledge and skills is the first step. Keep up with the latest technology and research in meteorology. Attend workshops and conferences. Getting advanced degrees or certifications can also help.

Building a strong professional network is another factor. Connect with other meteorologists, scientists, and industry professionals. Attend events and join professional organizations. A good reputation can lead to more job opportunities and higher pay. Seek out mentorship from experienced professionals. They can offer guidance and advice to help you advance. Another factor is gaining experience in different roles and environments. Working for different companies or in various locations can expand your skills and knowledge. Consider working in different areas of meteorology, such as weather forecasting, climate research, or environmental consulting. This versatility can make you more valuable to employers.

Location and industry sector also play a role. Some areas and industries offer higher salaries. Look for opportunities in cities with major media markets or research institutions. Industries such as broadcasting, aviation, and agriculture often need skilled meteorologists. These sectors can offer higher pay and more job stability. Consider these factors when choosing where and how to work.

Here are some key factors to help increase your earnings:

  • Advanced education and certifications
  • Professional networking and mentorship
  • Diverse experience and skills
  • Strategic career location
  • Industry specialization

Currently 97 Meteorologist job openings, nationwide.

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

Learn what a Meteorologist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Meteorologist today.
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Meteorologist
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