How much does a Park Ranger make?
A career as a Park Ranger offers a rewarding path with a competitive salary. On average, Park Rangers earn about $44,890 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific duties of the role. Many Park Rangers start in the lower range of this scale, with salaries around $25,000 to $30,000 for those just entering the field.
As Park Rangers gain experience and advance in their careers, their salaries can increase significantly. Those with more than a decade of experience may see their annual earnings rise to over $60,000. Additionally, Park Rangers who take on supervisory roles or specialize in areas like wildlife management or education can earn even more. The highest earners in this profession can make upwards of $77,000 per year. This range of salaries makes a career as a Park Ranger both financially viable and personally fulfilling.
What are the highest paying cities for a Park Ranger?
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $68,842
San Diego offers a range of outdoor activities for those who love nature. Working here means you'll enjoy beautiful beaches and parks. The city's parks department is a key employer.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $60,038
Seattle's parks are a big part of the city's culture. You'll find plenty of greenery and outdoor spaces. The city's parks and recreation department provides many opportunities.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $57,621
Denver is known for its stunning mountains and parks. Working here means you'll be surrounded by beautiful landscapes. The city's parks department offers a variety of roles.
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Chattanooga, TN
Average Salary: $55,720
Chattanooga offers a mix of urban and natural environments. You'll enjoy working in scenic parks and trails. The city's parks department is a great place to work.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $55,605
Salt Lake City is surrounded by mountains and parks. Working here means you'll be in a beautiful setting. The city's parks department offers many opportunities.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $53,669
Madison is known for its lakes and parks. Working here means you'll enjoy a peaceful environment. The city's parks department is a key employer.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $52,467
Riverside offers a variety of parks and outdoor spaces. Working here means you'll enjoy a diverse environment. The city's parks department provides many opportunities.
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Springfield, MO
Average Salary: $52,268
Springfield has many parks and natural areas. Working here means you'll enjoy a mix of urban and rural settings. The city's parks department is a great place to work.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $48,280
Nashville offers a range of parks and outdoor activities. Working here means you'll be in a vibrant city with plenty of nature. The city's parks department provides many opportunities.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $47,469
Tallahassee is known for its parks and natural beauty. Working here means you'll enjoy a peaceful environment. The city's parks department offers a variety of roles.
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What are the best companies a Park Ranger can work for?
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State of Nevada
Average Salary: $81,291
The State of Nevada offers rewarding Park Ranger jobs with a focus on protecting the state's vast natural resources. Opportunities are available in various locations, including the stunning landscapes of the Great Basin and the vibrant cities of Las Vegas and Reno.
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State of Tennessee
Average Salary: $59,476
In the State of Tennessee, Park Ranger jobs provide a chance to work in beautiful parks and forests. Rangers protect the Great Smoky Mountains and other natural wonders. Locations include popular spots like Nashville and Memphis.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $58,316
The State of Washington offers Park Ranger positions with a focus on preserving its diverse ecosystems. Rangers work in areas like the Olympic National Park and the Cascade Mountains. Cities such as Seattle and Spokane provide additional opportunities.
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Hamilton County
Average Salary: $56,418
Hamilton County provides Park Ranger jobs with a focus on local parks and natural areas. Rangers work in beautiful settings like the Lookout Mountain and the Tennessee River. The county includes the bustling city of Chattanooga.
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Hamilton County, TN
Average Salary: $56,041
Hamilton County, TN, offers Park Ranger jobs with a focus on protecting the natural beauty of the region. Rangers work in parks and forests around Chattanooga, providing a chance to connect with nature and the community.
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State of New Mexico
Average Salary: $55,491
The State of New Mexico offers Park Ranger jobs with a focus on its unique landscapes. Rangers work in areas like the White Sands National Park and the Rocky Mountains. The state includes cities like Albuquerque and Santa Fe.
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US Bureau of Land Management
Average Salary: $52,835
The US Bureau of Land Management offers Park Ranger jobs with a focus on managing public lands. Rangers work in various locations across the country, protecting natural resources and promoting outdoor recreation.
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U.S. National Park Service
Average Salary: $52,732
The U.S. National Park Service offers Park Ranger jobs with a focus on preserving national parks. Rangers work in iconic locations like Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, and Yosemite. The service provides opportunities across the United States.
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County of Riverside
Average Salary: $52,605
The County of Riverside offers Park Ranger jobs with a focus on local parks and natural areas. Rangers work in beautiful settings like the Santa Ana River and the surrounding mountains. The county includes the city of Riverside.
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State of Michigan
Average Salary: $52,445
The State of Michigan offers Park Ranger jobs with a focus on protecting its natural beauty. Rangers work in areas like the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and the Upper Peninsula. The state includes cities like Detroit and Lansing.
How to earn more as a Park Ranger?
A career as a Park Ranger offers many opportunities for growth and earning potential. By focusing on certain key areas, a Park Ranger can increase their salary and job satisfaction. One way to earn more is by gaining experience and advancing to higher positions. This often involves taking on more responsibility and leadership roles within the park system.
Another factor is education. Many higher-paying positions require advanced degrees or specialized training. For example, a Park Ranger with a degree in environmental science or a related field may qualify for higher-level jobs. Continuing education and certifications can also lead to better-paying positions. Specializations in areas like wildlife management or fire management can open up higher salary brackets. Networking with other professionals in the field can also lead to job opportunities that pay more. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help build these connections.
Location also plays a role. Park Rangers in certain areas may earn more due to the cost of living or the demand for their skills. Urban parks and national parks often have higher salaries compared to rural parks. Additionally, working for federal agencies or larger state parks can offer higher pay than smaller, local parks. Finally, taking on additional duties such as teaching or leading tours can provide extra income.
Here are five factors that can help a Park Ranger earn more:
- Gain experience and advance in your career.
- Pursue higher education and specialized training.
- Network with other professionals in the field.
- Consider location and employer type.
- Take on additional duties or responsibilities.
