Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists Salary in California
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists in California earn a median of $98,530 a year, +28% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $98,530
- vs. U.S. median
- +28% ($76,780)
- Rank among states
- 3 of 47
- Jobs in the state
- 2,210
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $58,380; the top 10% earn over $177,760. Nationally the range is $49,100 to $126,440.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Conservation Scientists$79,810 median in California
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health$106,510 median in California
- Range Managers$79,810 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Environmental Restoration Planners$106,510 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Soil and Plant Scientists$91,930 median in California
- Foresters$107,120 median in California
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists pay in California
How much do zoologists and wildlife biologists make in California?
The median is $98,530 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $58,380 and the top 10% earn over $177,760. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for zoologists and wildlife biologists?
On pay alone it ranks 3 of 47 (+28% vs. the national median of $76,780). Living costs are not included.