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Zoologist Salary in the United States

How much does a Zoologist make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Zoologist in the United States is $84,091 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $40.

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

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $121,560
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $68,872 to $103,703
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $55,016
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Zoologist Salaries

A Zoologist'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 Zoologists 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 Zoologists. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $93,105.
  • California: $92,752.
  • Massachusetts: $91,516.

Top Paying Cities for Zoologist

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: $106,063
  • San Francisco: $104,902
  • Oakland: $102,691

Zoologist Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Zoologist salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $84,091. While startup companies pay approximate $84,091.

Zoologist Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $84,091
Growth Stage 51~500 $84,091
Established 501~5000 $84,091
Enterprise 5000+ $84,091

Zoologist Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Zoologist'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
$68,872
Average $84,091/year
$103,703
$5,739
Average $7,008/month
$8,642
$1,324
Average $1,617/week
$1,994
$33
Average $40/hour
$50
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $103,703 $8,642 $1,994 $50
Average $84,091 $7,008 $1,617 $40
25th Percentile $68,872 $5,739 $1,324 $33

Most common benefits for Zoologist

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

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FAQ about Zoologist

1. Where can a Zoologist earn the most?

A Zoologist'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 Zoologist earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Zoologist is $106,063.

2. What is the highest pay for Zoologist?

The highest pay for Zoologist is $121,560.

3. What is the lowest pay for Zoologist?

The lowest pay for Zoologist is $55,016.

4. What are the responsibilities of Zoologist?

Studies the structure, physiology, development, and classification of animals. Requires a bachelor's degree and at least 4 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Is familiar with a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of complicated tasks.

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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