As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Meteorologist in the United States is $135,927 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $65.
However, a Meteorologist's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Meteorologist'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 Meteorologist'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 |
|---|---|---|
| Botanist | 0-0 years | $77,193 |
| Hydrologist | 4-7 years | $112,803 |
| Meteorologist | 7+ years | $135,927 |
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 Meteorologists. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 9.43% |
| Assembler | 2.14% |
| Programming | 1.8% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Commitment
|
$148,160 |
9%
|
|
Verbal Communication
|
$145,442 |
7%
|
|
Python
|
$145,442 |
7%
|
|
Technical Skills
|
$144,083 |
6%
|
|
Coordination
|
$142,723 |
5%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$141,364 |
4%
|
Understanding how a Meteorologist'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 January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Meteorologist, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Biologist V | $137,008 | 1% |
| Geologist V | $131,420 | -3% |
| Geophysicist V | $192,030 | 41% |
| Microbiologist V | $133,892 | -1% |
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Meteorologist and their salaries, click below for more details.
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A Meteorologist'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 Meteorologist earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Meteorologist is $171,445.
The highest pay for Meteorologist is $162,773.
The lowest pay for Meteorologist is $110,174.
Investigates, integrates and analyzes meteorological data from a variety of sources, including surface and air stations, satellites, and radar to prepare reports and forecasts for public and other uses. Analyzes weather model guidance and issues specialized hazardous weather forecasts when warranted. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. Work is highly independent. May assume a team lead role for the work group. A specialist on complex technical and business matters. Typically requires 7+ years of related experience.
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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