How much does a Ranger make?
Rangers typically earn a solid salary, with the average yearly income standing at $38,511. This figure can vary depending on several factors, including experience, location, and the specific agency or organization. A fresh ranger might start with a salary closer to the lower end of the scale, while those with more experience often see their earnings rise.
Rangers often see their earnings increase with more experience and promotions. The salary data shows a clear progression: from an entry-level salary of around $24,000 to a top-tier salary of around $70,710. These numbers reflect the diverse responsibilities and the importance of their role in protecting and managing natural resources. Job seekers can look forward to potential growth and stability in this career path.
What are the highest paying cities for a Ranger?

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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $67,635
Working as a Ranger in Boulder offers a mix of natural beauty and community engagement. The city’s parks and trails provide an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Companies like Boulder County and Boulder Parks and Recreation offer rewarding opportunities.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $55,551
In Boston, a career as a Ranger combines historical sites with urban life. The city's parks and historical areas offer diverse experiences. Employers such as the Boston Parks and Recreation Department provide a chance to make a difference in the community.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $40,720
Being a Ranger in Orlando means working in a vibrant city with many theme parks. The area’s natural attractions and wildlife offer exciting experiences. Companies such as Orange County and the City of Orlando provide excellent career paths.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $40,386
Tampa’s role as a Ranger involves both urban and coastal environments. The area’s beaches and nature reserves provide a variety of experiences. Employers like the City of Tampa and Hillsborough County offer dynamic career opportunities.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $40,000
As a Ranger in Miami, one gets to work in a city known for its vibrant culture and natural beauty. The city’s parks and coastal areas offer unique experiences. Companies like Miami-Dade County and the City of Miami provide diverse career paths.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $39,167
In Tallahassee, a career as a Ranger involves working with both urban and rural environments. The city’s parks and nature reserves offer a range of experiences. Employers such as the City of Tallahassee and Leon County provide meaningful career opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Ranger can work for?

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Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Average Salary: $49,424
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers rewarding Ranger jobs. They protect natural resources and state parks. You can find their rangers across the state, from Boston to the Berkshires.
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The Wildlands Conservancy
Average Salary: $43,879
The Wildlands Conservancy provides diverse Ranger roles. They work to conserve habitats and wildlife. Their operations span across Massachusetts, focusing on protecting natural areas.
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AutoBase Inc.
Average Salary: $42,200
AutoBase Inc. hires Rangers to manage properties and facilities. They work in a variety of locations, ensuring safety and maintenance. Their sites are spread across multiple regions.
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The Trustees of Reservations
Average Salary: $37,452
The Trustees of Reservations offer Ranger positions to protect historic sites and natural areas. Rangers here focus on education and conservation. Their parks are located throughout Massachusetts.
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Island Hospitality Management
Average Salary: $35,526
Island Hospitality Management has Ranger jobs focused on maintaining properties. They work on islands and coastal areas, ensuring a safe environment for visitors and staff.
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Equity Lifestyle Properties
Average Salary: $32,040
Equity Lifestyle Properties employs Rangers to manage and protect their properties. They are spread across various states, offering opportunities in diverse locations.
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Sun Communities
Average Salary: $31,832
Sun Communities offers Ranger jobs focused on property maintenance and guest safety. Their sites are in many locations, providing a range of experiences for Rangers.
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COUNTY OF KENOSHA
Average Salary: $24,000
The COUNTY OF KENOSHA hires Rangers to protect parks and natural areas. They are located in southeastern Wisconsin, offering a variety of conservation roles.
How to earn more as a Ranger?
A career as a Ranger offers a rewarding path in conservation and outdoor management. By focusing on certain factors, one can significantly increase their earning potential in this field. Key areas to concentrate on include gaining advanced education, acquiring specialized certifications, increasing work experience, expanding networking opportunities, and moving into leadership roles.
Advanced education can lead to higher salary brackets. Degrees in forestry, environmental science, or a related field provide a solid foundation. Specialized certifications, such as becoming a Certified Wildlife Biologist or a GIS Specialist, add value and can open doors to higher-paying positions. These credentials showcase a Ranger's commitment to professional development and skill enhancement. Experience in the field builds credibility and expertise. Years spent in various environments, such as national parks, state forests, or wildlife reserves, provide a diverse skill set that employers value. Networking with colleagues and industry professionals can lead to job opportunities that offer better compensation. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and participating in community events expand a Ranger's professional circle.
Leadership roles often come with higher pay. Taking on supervisory positions, such as a District Ranger or a Park Manager, not only increases earnings but also offers the chance to influence and shape conservation efforts. Rangers who step into these roles demonstrate their readiness to handle greater responsibilities and drive organizational goals.
Focusing on these factors can lead to significant increases in earnings for Rangers. By investing in education, gaining certifications, accumulating experience, expanding networks, and pursuing leadership roles, Rangers can enhance their career prospects and financial rewards.
Consider these steps to maximize your potential as a Ranger:
- Pursue advanced degrees and specialized certifications.
- Gain diverse experience in various environments.
- Build and maintain a strong professional network.
- Seek opportunities for leadership and management roles.



