Political Scientist Salary in 2026
Political scientists study political systems, policies, and behavior through research and analysis. They examine government institutions, international relations, and public opinion.
Median Salary
$135,000
$11,250/mo
Entry Level
$59,000
starting pay
Senior Level
$152,000
experienced
Job Growth
+6%
10-yr outlook
Political Scientist Overview
Political scientists study political systems, policies, and behavior through research and analysis. They examine government institutions, international relations, and public opinion.
Education
Doctoral Degree (PhD)
Experience
3-5 years
Industry
Science
Total Jobs (US)
8K
5-Year Growth
+12%
Category
Science
Hourly Rate
$64.90/hr
Monthly Pay
$11,250
Political Scientist Salary Calculator
Adjust your state and experience level to see the estimated Political Scientist salary in your area.
Mid Career (5-9 yrs)
Estimated Political Scientist Salary
$120,000
$10,000/month · $4,615/biweekly · $57.69/hr
Political Scientist Salary Range
Salary distribution from entry-level to top earners in the Political Scientist field.
Entry-level Political Scientists earn around $59,000, while the top 10% earn $166,000 or more.
Top Paying States for Political Scientists
| State | Est. Median Salary | vs National |
|---|---|---|
| California | $159,000 | +$24,000 |
| New York | $155,000 | +$20,000 |
| Massachusetts | $151,000 | +$16,000 |
| Maryland | $146,000 | +$11,000 |
| Virginia | $143,000 | +$8,000 |
Top Paying Cities for Political Scientists
| City | Est. Median Salary | vs National |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco | $169,000 | +$34,000 |
| New York | $159,000 | +$24,000 |
| Washington DC | $155,000 | +$20,000 |
| Boston | $151,000 | +$16,000 |
| Baltimore | $140,000 | +$5,000 |
Required Skills & Certifications
Key Skills
Certifications
Political Scientist Career Progression
Typical salary growth path for a Political Scientist from entry level to expert.
$59,000
0-2 years
$106,000
3-7 years
$152,000
8-14 years
$180,000
15+ years
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Political Scientist Salary FAQ
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