Geographer Salary in 2026
How Much Do Geographers Make?
Geographers earn a median annual salary of $97,200 as of 2026, based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data. Wages span from $62,390 at the 10th percentile to $133,680 at the 90th percentile — a range of $71,290. The highest-paying state is Washington at $110,340.
| Percentile | Annual salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $62,390 |
| 25th percentile | $75,590 |
| Median (50th) | $97,200 |
| 75th percentile | $117,190 |
| 90th percentile | $133,680 |
Geographer Salary by State
Median annual salary across all 50 states. Click a column to sort.
| State | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Washingtontop | $110,340 |
| Maryland | $109,120 |
| Colorado | $106,350 |
| Missouri | $94,870 |
| Illinois | $91,270 |
| Arizona | $87,050 |
| Pennsylvania | $85,220 |
| Texas | $75,550 |
Highest-Paying Metros for Geographers
Geographer Salary by Experience
Estimated salary ranges derived from BLS wage percentiles. Entry level corresponds to P10–P25, mid-career to the median, experienced to P75, and senior to P90+.
| Experience level | Estimated salary |
|---|---|
| Entry level (0–2 yrs) | ~$62,390 – $75,590 |
| Mid career (3–7 yrs) | ~$97,200 |
| Experienced (8–15 yrs) | ~$117,190 |
| Senior (15+ yrs) | $133,680+ |
How to Earn More as a Geographer
Location is the single biggest salary lever: Geographers in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV earn $117,960 — $20,760 above the national median. An advanced credential — such as a graduate degree or specialized certification — is consistently associated with higher earnings in this field. Reaching the 75th percentile ($117,190) typically requires 5–10 years of experience plus specialization in a high-demand area.
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Geographer Salary vs Similar Careers
| Career | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Geographerthis career | $97,200 |
| Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technician | $108,970 |
| Statistician | $103,300 |
| Cartographers and Photogrammetrist | $78,380 |
| Geodetic Surveyor | $72,740 |
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SOC: 19-3092.00 · Data: BLS OEWS 2026, O*NET 29.1 · Salary figures are national medians unless otherwise noted.