How much does a Scientist make?
Scientists play a crucial role in many industries, from healthcare to technology. They explore new ideas, conduct experiments, and develop new technologies. Their work often leads to important discoveries and advancements. The average yearly salary for scientists is around $96,750. This salary can vary based on the type of science and the industry.
The salary range for scientists can be quite broad. Some scientists earn as little as $44,420, while others earn over $190,000. The highest-paying positions often require more experience and advanced degrees. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution:
- 10% of scientists earn less than $57,655.
- 25% of scientists earn less than $70,889.
- 50% of scientists earn less than $97,358.
- 75% of scientists earn less than $137,062.
- 90% of scientists earn less than $163,531.
What are the highest paying cities for a Scientist?

-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $137,808
In San Francisco, professionals in scientific roles often work in tech companies. The city's vibrant tech scene offers many opportunities. Companies like Google and Salesforce lead in innovation.
Find Scientist jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $136,214
San Jose is a hub for tech and biotech. Scientists here enjoy a dynamic work environment. Companies such as Intel and Cisco provide cutting-edge research opportunities.
Find Scientist jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $131,650
Atlanta offers a mix of industries for scientists. The city's growing tech sector is a big draw. Companies like Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines offer diverse research roles.
Find Scientist jobs in Atlanta, GA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $119,698
In Washington, DC, scientists often work in government or research institutions. The city's focus on policy and research creates a unique environment. Organizations like NIH and NASA offer impactful work.
Find Scientist jobs in Washington, DC
-
Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $116,310
Memphis provides a mix of opportunities in healthcare and research. The city's focus on medical research is growing. Institutions like St. Jude Children's Research Hospital offer meaningful work.
Find Scientist jobs in Memphis, TN
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $115,561
Boston is a center for education and research. Scientists here work in top universities and hospitals. Institutions like Harvard and MIT offer cutting-edge research.
Find Scientist jobs in Boston, MA
-
Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $115,282
Santa Maria offers a quieter environment with a focus on agriculture and food science. The city's farms and food companies provide unique research opportunities. Local companies like Dole and Tyson Foods offer diverse roles.
Find Scientist jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $113,067
San Diego is known for its biotech and pharmaceutical industries. Scientists here work in a vibrant research community. Companies like Illumina and Scripps Research offer innovative projects.
Find Scientist jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $111,223
Huntsville is a hub for aerospace and defense research. Scientists here work on cutting-edge projects. Companies like NASA and Redstone Arsenal offer exciting opportunities.
Find Scientist jobs in Huntsville, AL
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $111,027
Seattle offers a mix of tech and environmental research. The city's tech companies and environmental organizations provide diverse roles. Companies like Amazon and Boeing offer impactful research opportunities.
Find Scientist jobs in Seattle, WA
What are the best companies a Scientist can work for?

-
Apple
Average Salary: $204,556
Apple offers exciting opportunities for scientists to work on cutting-edge technology. They have locations in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Scientists here focus on innovation in areas like AI, renewable energy, and health technology.
-
L3Harris
Average Salary: $193,411
L3Harris provides scientists with roles in aerospace, defense, and communications. They operate globally, with major offices in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Scientists here work on projects that impact national security and global communications.
-
Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
Average Salary: $191,333
This lab offers scientists the chance to work on critical research and development projects. They are based in the United States, with a strong presence in Maryland. Scientists here contribute to advancements in national security, space exploration, and health.
-
Amazon.com
Average Salary: $185,431
Amazon provides a dynamic environment for scientists to innovate in technology and logistics. They have offices worldwide, with a strong presence in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Scientists here are involved in projects that improve customer experience and operational efficiency.
-
Genentech
Average Salary: $161,243
Genentech offers scientists the opportunity to work on groundbreaking research in biotechnology. They are based in the United States, with a strong presence in California. Scientists here focus on developing innovative treatments for serious diseases.
-
Merck
Average Salary: $160,630
Merck provides scientists with roles in pharmaceuticals and healthcare. They operate globally, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Scientists here work on developing new medicines and improving health outcomes.
-
SAP
Average Salary: $160,009
SAP offers scientists the chance to work on enterprise software solutions. They have offices worldwide, with a strong presence in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Scientists here focus on developing innovative software that helps businesses run smoothly.
-
Uber
Average Salary: $157,979
Uber provides scientists with roles in technology and transportation. They operate globally, with a strong presence in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Scientists here work on projects that improve transportation efficiency and safety.
-
Gilead Sciences
Average Salary: $150,882
Gilead Sciences offers scientists the opportunity to work on innovative research in biotechnology. They are based in the United States, with a strong presence in California. Scientists here focus on developing new treatments for serious diseases.
-
Goldbelt, Inc.
Average Salary: $149,417
Goldbelt, Inc. provides scientists with roles in defense and technology. They operate in the United States, with a strong presence in Virginia. Scientists here work on projects that support national security and technological innovation.
How to earn more as a Scientist?
Scientists have many ways to earn more in their careers. They can focus on education, experience, and skills. Each of these areas can lead to higher pay. Scientists who work hard and stay curious can find many opportunities to grow.
Here are some ways scientists can earn more:
- Get more education: Earning a higher degree can open new job opportunities. A master's or PhD can lead to higher-paying jobs. It can also lead to research positions.
- Gain more experience: Working in the field for several years can lead to higher pay. Experience makes a scientist more valuable. It shows they know how to handle different tasks.
- Develop new skills: Learning new skills can make a scientist more attractive to employers. Skills like data analysis, programming, and lab techniques can lead to higher pay.
- Network with others: Building connections with other scientists can lead to job opportunities. Networking can help find out about new jobs and projects. It can also lead to collaborations that bring in more money.
- Seek out leadership roles: Taking on leadership roles can lead to higher pay. Managing projects or teams can show a scientist's ability to lead. It can also open the door to higher-paying positions.