Marine biologists' salaries vary widely depending on experience, location, employer, and education level.
United States Salary Overview
- The average salary for a marine biologist in the U.S. ranges roughly from $56,000 to $67,000 per year according to multiple sources
- Entry-level marine biologists typically earn between $29,000 and $50,000 annually
- Mid-career professionals with several years of experience can earn around $53,000 to $77,000 per year
- Senior or highly experienced marine biologists may earn upwards of $90,000 to over $128,000 annually, depending on their role and specialization
- Specialized roles such as marine veterinarians or marine geneticists can earn between $80,000 and $113,000 or more
- Salaries also vary by state; for example, in Florida, average salaries are around $57,000, with entry-level pay near $45,000 and senior roles exceeding $80,000
International Salary Example: Italy
- In Italy, marine biologists earn on average about 65,000 EUR per year, with a range from approximately 31,400 EUR to over 104,900 EUR depending on experience and other factors
Factors Influencing Salary
- Higher education degrees (master’s, PhD) and managing experience can increase earning potential
- Employment sector matters: marine biologists working at research institutions or universities often earn more, with some university positions paying between $58,000 and $198,000 annually (New Zealand example)
- Location, employer type, and specialization significantly impact salary.
In summary, marine biologists in the U.S. typically earn between $30,000 and $130,000 annually, with averages around $55,000 to $67,000, increasing with experience and specialization. Salaries vary internationally but show similar trends linked to experience and employer type.
