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Hydrologist I Salary in the United States

How much does a Hydrologist I make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Hydrologist I in the United States is $75,545 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $36.

However, a Hydrologist I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $97,730
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $69,924 to $87,157
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $64,806
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Hydrologist I Salaries

A Hydrologist I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Do Hydrologist I Salaries Vary from State to State?

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 Hydrologist Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $83,643.
  • California: $83,326.
  • Massachusetts: $82,215.

Top Paying Cities for Hydrologist Is

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $95,284
  • San Francisco: $94,241
  • Oakland: $92,255

Hydrologist I Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Hydrologist I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $81,958. While startup companies pay approximate $69,529.

Hydrologist I Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $69,529
Growth Stage 51~500 $73,485
Established 501~5000 $79,198
Enterprise 5000+ $81,958

Hydrologist I Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Hydrologist I'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 September 01, 2026
$69,924
Average $75,545/year
$87,157
$5,827
Average $6,295/month
$7,263
$1,345
Average $1,453/week
$1,676
$34
Average $36/hour
$42
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $87,157 $7,263 $1,676 $42
Average $75,545 $6,295 $1,453 $36
25th Percentile $69,924 $5,827 $1,345 $34

Hydrologist I Salary Growth & Career Path

Hydrologist I

Next Role

Advancement

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Hydrologist I, 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
Agronomist $67,345 -11%
Biologist II $66,840 -12%
Geologist II $68,817 -9%
Geophysicist II $110,674 47%

Most common benefits for Hydrologist I

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Hydrologist I

Here are companies hiring for Hydrologist I and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Hydrologist I

1. Where can a Hydrologist I earn the most?

A Hydrologist I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Hydrologist I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Hydrologist I is $95,284.

2. What is the highest pay for Hydrologist I?

The highest pay for Hydrologist I is $97,730.

3. What is the lowest pay for Hydrologist I?

The lowest pay for Hydrologist I is $64,806.

4. What are the responsibilities of Hydrologist I?

Studies the distribution, movement, and quality of water across surface and subsurface environments to inform resource management and environmental protection efforts. Collects and analyzes field data on precipitation, streamflow, groundwater levels, erosion, and water quality using specialized instruments and sampling techniques. Develops hydrologic models to forecast water availability, flood risk, and the impacts of land use or climate variability. Prepares technical reports, maps, and recommendations to guide decisions on water supply, drainage, and infrastructure projects. Advises engineers, planners, and regulatory agencies on compliance with environmental standards and water resource regulations. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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