As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for a Hydrogeologist in the United States is $113,000 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $54.
However, a Hydrogeologist's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Hydrogeologist's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Hydrogeologist's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Plant Scientist | 0-0 years | $77,999 |
| Hydrogeologist | 4-7 years | $112,967 |
| Weather Scientist | 7+ years | $136,113 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Hydrogeologists. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Hydrogeologist salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $122,731. While startup companies pay approximate $104,090.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $104,090 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $110,016 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $118,609 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $122,731 |
For Hydrogeologist roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Business Services and Energy & Utilities sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Hydrogeologist positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit or Construction typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Hydrogeologist as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Services | $135,600 | $65.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $124,300 | $60.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a Hydrogeologist's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on July 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Hydrogeologist, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist Biologist | $120,900 | 7% |
| Mine Geologist IV | $109,200 | -3% |
| Specialist Geophysicist | $156,300 | 38% |
| Microbiologist, Specialist | $93,600 | -17% |
Salaries for a Hydrogeologist can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $83,250 in 2023 to around $81,034 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Hydrogeologist salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $83,250 |
| 2024 | $82,194 |
| 2025 | $81,034 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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The Business Services industry offers the highest average compensation for Hydrogeologist roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.
Hydrogeology can be challenging due to the need for technical expertise and strong analytical skills. Hydrogeologists tackle complex issues like water resource management and contamination. The salary range for this profession typically falls between $90,200 and $118,800, reflecting the level of expertise and responsibility required in the field.
Hydrogeologists in the US typically earn between $90,200 and $118,800 annually, with a median salary around $105,300. These figures reflect the range of salaries based on industry data, providing a clear picture of potential earnings in this field.
Hydrogeology is a promising career, with a projected 7% growth in job opportunities. Hydrogeologists are essential for managing and conserving vital water resources. Salary data indicates a range from $90,200 to $118,800, with a median of $105,300, making it a financially rewarding field for those with the necessary expertise.
How Much Does a Hydrogeologist Make? Hydrogeologists earned a median salary of $105,300 in 2023. The top 25% earned up to $118,800, while the lowest 25% made around $90,200.
The highest salary for a hydrogeologist is $118,800. While salaries can vary, the majority of hydrogeologists earn between $90,200 (minimum) and $105,300 (midpoint), with top earners reaching up to $118,800 annually. This reflects a more accurate range compared to other reported figures in the field.
High Paying Water Jobs include Hydrogeologist, with a salary range of $90,200 to $118,800 per year. Other notable positions are Boiler House Operator, Boiler Inspector, and Pump Installer, with varying salaries. Hydrogeologists are among the top earners in the water sector, reflecting the demand for expertise in groundwater management and environmental protection.
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