What Does a Marine Biologist Do?
Marine Biologist Salary ocean life—ranging from tiny plankton to massive whales. Their work may involve:
Conducting research on marine ecosystems
Tagging and tracking sea animals
Collecting water samples
Working on conservation projects
Advising on policy or environmental law
They may work in the field, at labs, for government agencies, universities, aquariums, or NGOs.
| Category | Details | Tips/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Average Salary (2025) | $66,500 per year | Varies by experience, education, and job type |
| Entry-Level Salary | $40,000 – $52,000 | Higher in government and private sector roles |
| Mid-Career Salary | $60,000 – $85,000 | After 5–10 years of experience |
| Senior-Level Salary | $90,000 – $110,000+ | PhD holders or high-level consultants |
| Top-Paying Industries | Federal Agencies (NOAA, EPA) Private Environmental Firms Oil & Gas Sector Biotech Research Labs | Higher risk = higher pay (e.g., oil/gas roles) |
| Best U.S. States for Salary | California: $78k – $95k Massachusetts: $72k – $88k Washington: $70k – $86k Alaska: $68k – $83k Hawaii: $65k – $80k | These states also have more marine jobs |
| Key Salary Influencers | Education level, location, employer type, specialization | Advanced degrees lead to higher roles |
| Job Outlook (2022–2032) | 5% growth (as fast as average) | Driven by climate and conservation initiatives |
| Ways to Increase Salary | Earn advanced degrees Gain specialized certifications Network at conferences Apply for grants | Brand yourself as a niche expert |
| Recommended Degrees | Bachelor’s in Marine Biology or Environmental Science; Master’s or PhD for top-tier roles | Academic path = higher income potential |
Average Marine Biologist Salary in 2025
In 2025, the average marine biologist salary in the U.S. is approximately $66,500 per year, according to recent labor market data. However, this can vary widely based on role, education, location, and industry.
General Salary Range:
Entry-Level: $40,000 – $52,000
Mid-Career: $60,000 – $85,000
Senior-Level/PhD Roles: $90,000 – $110,000+
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Intern / Assistant | $32,000 – $45,000 |
| 1–3 Years Experience | $50,000 – $65,000 |
| 5–10 Years Experience | $70,000 – $85,000 |
| 10+ Years Experience | $90,000 – $110,000+ |
Marine biologists who move into consulting, project management, or federal research positions typically earn more.
Highest Paying Industries for Marine Biologists
Some sectors offer higher salaries than others:
Federal Government Agencies: NOAA, EPA, and USGS typically offer competitive pay and benefits.
Private Environmental Consulting Firms: These roles often pay more due to specialized contract work.
Oil and Gas Industry: Higher risk, but significantly higher compensation for environmental compliance roles.
Biotech and Research Labs: PhD-level biologists can secure high-paying research grants or positions.
Best-Paying Locations in the U.S.
Salaries can fluctuate depending on where you work. Here are some top-paying states:
| State | Average Salary (2025) |
|---|---|
| California | $78,000 – $95,000 |
| Massachusetts | $72,000 – $88,000 |
| Washington | $70,000 – $86,000 |
| Alaska | $68,000 – $83,000 |
| Hawaii | $65,000 – $80,000 |
These areas not only have higher wages but also greater access to marine research facilities and institutions.
Factors That Affect Marine Biologist Salaries
Several variables can influence how much you earn:
Education Level – A master’s or PhD significantly increases your earning potential.
Specialization – Niche expertise (e.g., marine toxicology, fisheries) can command higher pay.
Location – Coastal states with robust marine industries tend to offer better salaries.
Employer Type – Government, academia, and private sector all pay differently.Experience – Like most careers, your Marine Biologist Salary grows with experience and leadership roles.
Career Growth & Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for zoologists and wildlife biologists (which includes marine biologists) is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as average.
Growth Opportunities:
Leading field research teams
Moving into environmental policy roles
Teaching and academic careers
Authoring scientific publications or books
Running nonprofit conservation programs
How to Increase Your Salary as a Marine Biologist
If you’re already working in the field or planning to, here’s how you can boost your earnings:
Pursue Advanced Degrees – A master’s or PhD opens doors to higher-paying research roles.
Get Certified – Consider certifications like SCUBA, GIS mapping, or project management.
Network with Experts – Attend marine science conferences to connect with high-impact professionals.
Apply for Grants – Funding can allow you to conduct your own research, building authority in your niche.
Build a Personal Brand – Create content, write blogs, or share your research to establish credibility.
Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
A career in marine biology can be deeply fulfilling—both intellectually and emotionally—but it comes with financial variability. While not the highest-paying field in science, it offers incredible opportunities to explore the ocean, protect ecosystems, and influence environmental policy.
Thinking about diving in?
If you’re passionate about marine life and willing to grow your credentials, marine biology can offer a stable, rewarding, and impactful career path.
FAQ About Marine Biologist Salary
What’s the starting salary for a marine biologist?
Entry-level marine biologists typically earn between $40,000 and $52,000 depending on location and employer.
Do marine biologists get paid well?
Salaries vary, but many experienced marine biologists earn upwards of $85,000 to $100,000, especially in specialized or leadership roles.
What degree is best for a marine biology career?
A Bachelor’s in Marine Biology, Environmental Science, or Zoology is a good start. A Master’s or PhD greatly enhances job and Marine Biologist Salary prospects.
Is marine biology a growing field?
Yes, especially with the rise of climate change awareness, ocean conservation efforts, and environmental policy initiatives.
