Park Ranger Salaries

1. Austin, TX
   Average Salary: $71,213
   In Austin, joining the parks team means being part of a vibrant city with many outdoor opportunities. Rangers collaborate with local organizations to maintain the city's natural beauty, offering a dynamic work environment. The diverse landscape provides a unique setting for conservation efforts.
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2. San Diego, CA
   Average Salary: $67,970
   Working as a park ranger in San Diego offers the chance to work in some of the most scenic areas in the country. Employees engage in coastal and wildlife conservation, making every day different. With numerous parks and trails, there is always something new to explore and protect.
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3. Salt Lake City, UT
   Average Salary: $62,954
   In Salt Lake City, park rangers enjoy the challenge of maintaining both urban and mountainous parks. The job combines outdoor activities with community engagement, offering a rewarding experience. The beautiful landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for conservation work.
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4. Denver, CO
   Average Salary: $62,021
   A role as a park ranger in Denver combines urban and wilderness settings. Workers get to be part of the efforts to preserve the city's natural parks and mountain trails. The diverse environment makes each day unique and fulfilling.
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5. Louisville, KY
   Average Salary: $60,020
   Louisville offers a mix of urban and natural settings for park rangers. They play a key role in maintaining parks and natural areas, contributing to the city's green spaces. This job allows for a strong connection with the community and nature.
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6. Chattanooga, TN
   Average Salary: $56,465
   In Chattanooga, park rangers enjoy a role that involves both urban parks and natural landscapes. They work to preserve the area's unique environment, from the lush forests to the urban parks. This job provides a chance to engage with the community and nature.
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7. Riverside, CA
   Average Salary: $54,183
   Riverside offers a role with a focus on both urban and rural parks. Park rangers here are key in maintaining the area's natural beauty. The diverse landscapes provide a varied and engaging work environment.
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8. Springfield, MO
   Average Salary: $52,719
   Springfield park rangers work in a variety of settings, from city parks to rural areas. They focus on preserving the natural beauty and promoting outdoor activities. This job offers a chance to engage with the outdoors and the community.
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9. Memphis, TN
   Average Salary: $49,002
   In Memphis, park rangers are essential in maintaining the city's parks and natural areas. They work to preserve the local environment and promote outdoor activities. This role offers a rewarding experience in a vibrant city.
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10. Columbia, SC
    Average Salary: $44,123
    Columbia provides a unique setting for park rangers, with a mix of urban and natural parks. They play a key role in preserving the area's natural beauty. This job offers a rewarding experience with a strong connection to the outdoors.
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1. National Park Service
   Average Salary: $56,735
   The National Park Service offers exciting career opportunities for Park Rangers. They protect and manage over 400 parks across the nation. Rangers work in locations like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Great Smoky Mountains.
   

   
   

2. Bureau of Land Management
   Average Salary: $53,517
   The Bureau of Land Management seeks Park Rangers to manage public lands. They oversee activities in vast areas, including forests, grasslands, and rangelands. Opportunities exist in states like Nevada, California, and Utah.
   

   
   

3. State of Michigan
   Average Salary: $53,140
   Michigan offers rewarding Park Ranger jobs with a focus on conservation. Rangers work in state parks and natural areas. Locations include Pictured Rocks, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Porcupine Mountains.
   

   
   

4. County of Riverside
   Average Salary: $52,894
   Riverside County employs Park Rangers to protect parks and natural resources. They work in locations like Box Springs Mountain and Mount Rubidoux. Rangers ensure public safety and preserve the environment.
   

   
   

5. Parks and Recreation Center
   Average Salary: $52,694
   This company provides Park Ranger positions focused on community parks. They work to enhance outdoor spaces and offer programs. Locations span across urban and suburban areas, ensuring public access to green spaces.
   

   
   

6. Virginia Department of Corrections
   Average Salary: $50,748
   The Virginia Department of Corrections offers Park Ranger roles for managing correctional facilities' outdoor spaces. They work in areas like forestry and wildlife management. Opportunities exist in multiple state parks.
   

   
   

7. STATE OF NEW MEXICO-ALTSD
   Average Salary: $50,669
   New Mexico's Agency on Aging and Long-Term Services Department hires Park Rangers for state parks. They manage resources and ensure visitor safety. Locations include Sandia Mountains and Lincoln National Forest.
   

   
   

8. Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
   Average Salary: $49,521
   The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts employs Park Rangers to manage state lands. They focus on conservation and recreation. Opportunities exist in parks like Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
   

   
   

9. Commonwealth of Kentucky
   Average Salary: $45,984
   Kentucky provides Park Ranger jobs in state parks and forests. Rangers work on conservation and public education. Locations include Mammoth Cave National Park and Cumberland Falls.
   

   
   

10. State of Idaho
    Average Salary: $43,265
    Idaho offers Park Ranger positions focused on managing natural resources. They work in beautiful areas like Sawtooth National Recreation Area and Craters of the Moon National Monument.
    

Working as a park ranger offers a rewarding career dedicated to protecting natural resources. Some park rangers find ways to earn more through various methods. Understanding these can help increase earnings while continuing to love the job.

Here are several ways to earn more as a park ranger:

1. Pursue higher education: Rangers with advanced degrees can earn higher salaries.
2. Gain specialized training: Certifications in areas such as first aid, wildlife management, or search and rescue can lead to higher pay.
3. Take on additional duties: Volunteering for extra tasks like leading educational programs or managing large events can result in bonuses.
4. Work overtime: Many parks offer overtime pay for extra hours worked during peak seasons.
5. Move to a higher-paying location: Salaries vary by state and national park. Some areas offer higher wages.