Marine Biologist Salary in 2026
Marine biologists study ocean organisms and ecosystems, conducting field research on marine life and habitats. They investigate biodiversity, conservation, and the impacts of climate change on oceans.
Median Salary
$67,000
$5,583/mo
Entry Level
$43,000
starting pay
Senior Level
$84,000
experienced
Job Growth
+5%
10-yr outlook
Marine Biologist Overview
Marine biologists study ocean organisms and ecosystems, conducting field research on marine life and habitats. They investigate biodiversity, conservation, and the impacts of climate change on oceans.
Education
Master's Degree
Experience
2-4 years
Industry
Science
Total Jobs (US)
12K
5-Year Growth
+15%
Category
Science
Hourly Rate
$32.21/hr
Monthly Pay
$5,583
Marine Biologist Salary Calculator
Adjust your state and experience level to see the estimated Marine Biologist salary in your area.
Mid Career (5-9 yrs)
Estimated Marine Biologist Salary
$70,000
$5,833/month · $2,692/biweekly · $33.65/hr
Marine Biologist Salary Range
Salary distribution from entry-level to top earners in the Marine Biologist field.
Entry-level Marine Biologists earn around $43,000, while the top 10% earn $98,500 or more.
Top Paying States for Marine Biologists
| State | Est. Median Salary | vs National |
|---|---|---|
| California | $79,000 | +$12,000 |
| Hawaii | $77,000 | +$10,000 |
| Massachusetts | $75,000 | +$8,000 |
| Washington | $75,000 | +$8,000 |
| Florida | $66,000 | $-1,000 |
Top Paying Cities for Marine Biologists
| City | Est. Median Salary | vs National |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle | $76,000 | +$9,000 |
| Honolulu | $75,000 | +$8,000 |
| San Diego | $74,000 | +$7,000 |
| Woods Hole | $72,000 | +$5,000 |
| Miami | $68,000 | +$1,000 |
Required Skills & Certifications
Key Skills
Certifications
Marine Biologist Career Progression
Typical salary growth path for a Marine Biologist from entry level to expert.
$43,000
0-2 years
$64,000
3-7 years
$84,000
8-14 years
$113,000
15+ years
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Marine Biologist Salary FAQ
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