Have you ever considered a career in marine conservation, research with reefs, or dolphins as a potential career path? Maybe you should follow your heart and become a marine biologist. But before you jump in, you might be wondering: How much does a marine- biologist make?
Earnings for marine scientists in 2025, broken down by experience, location, and other factors, will be discussed in this article. If you are a student, a new graduate, or thinking about changing careers, this guide will give you a good idea of what you can expect to earn in this interesting industry.
What Does a Marine Biologist Do?
Marine biologists study ocean life — from microscopic plankton to massive whales. Their work spans:
- Conducting field research and lab experiments
- Monitoring ocean health and biodiversity
- Advising on environmental policies
- Working with conservation programs
- Teaching and publishing scientific papers
These professionals can work in government agencies, universities, private labs, aquariums, and nonprofit organizations.
Average Marine Biologist Salary in 2025
As of 2025, the average marine biologist salary in the United States is around $73,000 per year, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry reports.
Here’s a general salary breakdown:
- Entry-level (0–2 years): $45,000 – $60,000
- Mid-level (3–7 years): $65,000 – $85,000
- Senior-level (8+ years): $90,000 – $120,000+
Pro Tip: Salaries vary depending on academic qualifications. A master’s or PhD can significantly boost your earning potential.
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Average Salary (2025) |
| Intern or Trainee | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| Early Career (0–2 yrs) | $50,000 – $60,000 |
| Mid Career (3–7 yrs) | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| Experienced (8–15 yrs) | $90,000 – $110,000 |
| Senior/Director Level | $110,000 – $130,000+ |
Salary by Location
Just like ocean ecosystems, marine biologist salaries vary by region. Coastal states and research hubs tend to offer higher wages.
Top-paying states for marine biologists in 2025:
- California: $92,000
- Washington: $88,000
- Massachusetts: $86,000
- Florida: $79,000
- Alaska: $78,000
States with lower salaries: Mississippi, Louisiana, and some inland regions typically offer salaries between $50,000–$65,000.
Salary by Industry and Employer
The employer’s sector significantly influences a marine biologist’s income.
| Employer Type | Salary Range (2025) |
| Federal Government (NOAA, EPA) | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| Private Environmental Firms | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| Nonprofits & NGOs | $50,000 – $75,000 |
| Universities/Academia | $60,000 – $95,000 |
| Aquariums & Zoos | $45,000 – $70,000 |
Marine Biologist Salary vs Similar Careers
Let’s see how a marine- biologist salary compares to other related fields:
| Profession | Average Salary (2025) |
| Wildlife Biologist | $68,000 |
| Environmental Scientist | $74,000 |
| Oceanographer | $81,000 |
| Marine Engineer | $92,000 |
| Zoologist | $66,000 |
Career Path and Earning Potential
Marine biology is a field with long-term potential. Here’s a simplified roadmap with salary expectations:
- Bachelor’s Degree – Entry-level technician or assistant roles ($40,000–$60,000)
- Master’s Degree – Mid-level researcher or field specialist ($65,000–$90,000)
- PhD – Senior scientist, research director, or professor ($100,000+)
Additional roles like marine policy advisor, environmental consultant, or biotech researcher can bring even higher pay with experience and specialization.
How to Increase Your Salary as a Marine Biologist
Want to earn more in this field? Here are proven ways to boost your marine- biologist salary:
- Pursue higher education – Especially a master’s or PhD.
- Specialize in high-demand areas – e.g., climate change, ocean acoustics, marine toxicology.
- Gain international experience – Especially with global organizations like UNESCO or WWF.
- Get certified – SCUBA certifications, GIS skills, or data analytics can set you apart.
- Publish research – Building authority helps secure better academic and grant-funded positions.
Is Becoming a Marine Biologist Worth It?
If you’re passionate about the ocean and committed to science, marine biology can be incredibly fulfilling. While it may not be the highest-paying profession out of college, the long-term value lies in:
- Contributing to vital environmental research
- Working in scenic, unique ecosystems
- Opportunities for travel and international collaboration
- Advancing to leadership or consultancy roles with competitive pay
Conclusion
Purpose, passion, and the preservation of our planet’s seas are more important than money when considering a career as a marine scientist. However, long-term objectives and expectations can be better met with knowledge of the earning potential. In 2025, marine biologists may look forward to a secure employment market, competitive wages, and room for advancement, particularly with further training and certification.
FAQs
Q: What is the starting salary for a marine biologist?
A: Most entry-level marine biologists earn between $45,000 and $60,000 annually in 2025.
Q: Do marine biologists make good money?
A: While not extremely high-paying at entry, marine biologists can earn six-figure salaries at senior levels or in the private sector.
Q: How much does a marine biologist make per hour?
A: On average, marine biologists earn $35 to $50 per hour depending on experience and location.
Q: Do marine biologists get paid more with a PhD?
A: Yes. A PhD often opens doors to higher education, research grants, and leadership positions with significantly higher pay.
Q: Can marine biologists work remotely?
A: Some roles, such as data analysis or academic writing, allow for remote work, but fieldwork typically requires on-site presence.
