Geographers Salary by State
The national median pay for geographers is $102,040 a year. By state, it ranges from $79,170 in Texas to $114,920 in Maryland.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
U.S. pay range
- Lowest 10%
- $66,770
- 25th percentile
- $80,290
- Median
- $102,040
- 75th percentile
- $121,870
- Top 10%
- $136,660
Annual pay, all U.S. workers in this job. About 1,400 jobs.
Median pay in 7 states
| # | State | Median | vs. U.S. | Lowest 10% | Top 10% | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Maryland | $114,920 | +13% | $71,840 | $140,670 | 210 |
| 2 | California | $114,460 | +12% | $85,800 | $144,910 | 80 |
| 3 | Washington | $112,260 | +10% | $76,490 | $147,990 | 40 |
| 4 | Virginia | $108,020 | +6% | $71,650 | $156,750 | 130 |
| 5 | Missouri | $102,040 | 0% | $75,800 | $126,440 | 40 |
| 6 | Illinois | $92,640 | −9% | $63,330 | $125,650 | 40 |
| 7 | Texas | $79,170 | −22% | $62,890 | $114,550 | 180 |
BLS OEWS May 2025 state estimates. States without published data are not listed. “Not published”: BLS withheld the value or it is above the highest amount BLS publishes. Pay is not adjusted for living costs.
Geographers salary questions
Which state pays geographers the most?
Maryland, with a median of $114,920 a year (+13% vs. the national median of $102,040). BLS May 2025.
Which state pays geographers the least?
Texas, with a median of $79,170 a year (−22% vs. national).
Where do most geographers work?
Maryland has the most jobs, about 210, with a median of $114,920.
Does a higher salary mean more money left over?
Not always. These are pay figures only. Living costs, taxes and housing differ a lot between states, and this page does not adjust for them.