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A marine biologist can make an average base salary of $45,781 a year in the United States. This can be an exciting career choice for those who love the water — being in it or near it — and are curious about the mysteries of aquatic life.

How much a marine biologist makes depends on a variety of factors, including where you live, how much experience you have, and your area of expertise. Let’s dive into how you might pursue your passion for the sea, while keeping your finances afloat.

What Are Marine Biologists?

A marine biologist is a scientist who studies the life forms and ecosystems of oceans and saltwater lakes. They typically enjoy collecting data and patiently observing natural phenomena. Marine biologists can play an important role in protecting marine life and promoting environmental sustainability.

While some may imagine marine biology as a solitary job, working quietly in a lab or swimming silently alongside dolphins, it is not necessarily a job for introverts. Most marine biologists make money by collaborating with teams of people and sharing findings within a scientific community.

Some of the duties of a marine biologist can include:

•   Observing animals, microorganisms, and plants in oceans and saltwater lakes

•   Conducting studies on various species of sea animals and their ecosystems

•   Collecting samples of water, ocean plants and microorganisms for laboratory research

•   Performing laboratory experiments, using specialized equipment to assist their research

•   Administering medical care to injured or ill marine animals

•   Tracking migration and the reproductive patterns of fish and other marine mammals

•   Studying geological oceanography, to learn about ocean features such as ridges, trenches, and rises that affect marine environments

•   Discovering how to preserve marine life

•   Promoting environmental sustainability

•   Collaborating and sharing data with other specialists in marine biology

•   Composing scientific papers and reports for peers and the public

•   Giving presentations at educational institutions and museums on marine life

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How Much Do Starting Marine Biologists Make a Year?

Starting out, marine biologists can be paid hourly or be given a yearly salary.

The starting hourly rate for a marine biologist is estimated to be around $18.50 — definitely higher than the federal minimum wage.

As the field typically requires professional expertise and commitment to long-term studies, marine biologists are usually paid a yearly salary. An entry level salary for a marine biologist in the United States tends to fall in the $40,000 to $50,000 range.

Most professions, including marine biology, probably aren’t going to offer $100,000 salaries to newcomers in the field. But there are ways to turn your passion for the ocean into more competitive pay opportunities.

What Is the Average Salary for a Marine Biologist?

A typical salary for a marine biologist is $45,781 a year. Here’s a bit more information: According to Indeed.com, the average competitive pay for a marine biologist as of January 2024 can range from $35,034 to $70,061. But some marine biology jobs can pay well above $100,000 a year.

How much a marine biologist makes can rely on your degree status, experience, and area of specialization. For example:

•   The national average for an oceanographer is $79,562 a year.

•   A marine veterinarian, who cares for animals such as sea turtles, fish, and whales, can earn a yearly salary of around $113,418.

•   Other high-paying marine biology jobs include marine biochemists, marine ecologists, marine mammalogists, and marine geneticists. These occupations can pay between $80,000 and $100,000 per year.

While a marine biologist can traditionally be a hands-on occupation, it is viewed as a scientific profession vs. a trade job.

Working marine biologists almost always have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, with many acquiring a master’s or doctorate in a chosen area. Advanced degrees are often needed for higher paying positions. (These, in turn, can leave a job seeker with student loan debt.)

What Is the Average Marine Biologist Salary by State?

A big factor in how much money a marine biologist makes depends on where they live. This means that state by state salaries will fluctuate. Here’s a look at average salaries by state, arranged alphabetically.

Average Salary by State for a Marine Biologist
State	Median Salary for a Marine Biologist
Alabama	$37,712
Alaska	$42,501
Arizona	$38,773
Arkansas	$32,379
California	$43,412
Colorado	$41,136
Connecticut	$37,953
Delaware	$47,502
Florida	$31,091
Georgia	$35,132
Hawaii	$41,119
Idaho	$41,611
Illinois	$37,945
Indiana	$39,592
Iowa	$37,746
Kansas	$35,422
Kentucky	$34,058
Louisiana	$34,543
Maine	$42,287
Maryland	$45,973
Massachusetts	$42,881
Michigan	$34,089
Minnesota	$39,565
Mississippi	$37,623
Missouri	$48,370
Montana	$38,189
Nebraska	$44,898
Nevada	$40,186
New Hampshire	$40,958
New Jersey	$41,586
New Mexico	$39,466
New York	$45,915
North Carolina	$35,516
North Dakota	$41,902
Ohio	$38,491
Oklahoma	$43,480
Oregon	$41,919
Pennsylvania	$42,056
Rhode Island	$38,827
South Carolina	$36,266
South Dakota	$39,602
Tennessee	$36,749
Texas	$41,406
Utah	$36,721
Vermont	$44,968
Virginia	$46,686
Washington	$50,714
West Virginia	$32,481
Wisconsin	$41,083
Wyoming	$40,201
Source: ZipRecruiter

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Marine Biologist Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

You can increase your salary range as a marine biologist if you are willinging to move to a higher-paying state, acquire an advanced degree, or specialize in certain areas of the field. But some factors that determine your salary are out of your control, including:

•   Funding/budget for your organization.

•   Type of organization, meaning private vs. public

•   Economic conditions

•   Demand for your skill set.

Since the majority of marine biologists secure a yearly salary, you may receive the following job benefits, among others:

•   Health coverage

•   Paid sick leave

•   Vacation days

•   Retirement plan participation.

While pursuing a salaried position as a marine biologist, make sure you understand how much you need to make to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Try creating a budget and check out financial tools that can help track your expenses vs. your income.

Pros and Cons of Being a Marine Biologist

If you have a scientific mind and love the water and marine life, being a marine biologist could be a dream job for you. Of course, even dream jobs can have their downsides.

Here are some of the pros and cons of working in the field of marine biology

Pros:

•   Traveling to new locations. Many marine biologists travel the world, with the oceans as their laboratories.

•   Working with a network of diverse people. Marine biologists work collaboratively, sharing data and consulting with a range of experts in the field.

•   Using state-of-the-art equipment. Marine biologists can have access to sophisticated, high-tech gear in order to further their studies.

•   Evolving your career. There are many ways to branch out into specialized fields in marine biology, so you can continue to excite your mind and, potentially, raise your salary.

•   Making a difference. Marine biologists have a chance to make an impact on serious environmental issues, especially in the areas of conservation and preservation.

•   Earning a good salary for something you love, especially if you pursue advanced degrees that open doors for highly paid positions.

Cons:

•   Long, isolated working hours. A marine biologist can be assigned to a research position out at sea for long periods of time. Being away from friends and family can take an emotional toll.

•   Physically demanding. Out in the field, you may be subject to severe weather conditions — extreme cold and sweltering heat.

•   Dangerous conditions. Typhoons, hurricanes, and storms at sea can put marine biologists at risk for injury.

•   Emotionally draining. Some marine biologists, when they see firsthand how humans are affecting the environment, may feel powerless to reverse the harm, which can be upsetting.

The Takeaway

The average figure for how much a marine biologist makes a year is $45,781. A career as a marine biologist can provide a sense of adventure and helping protect the earth’s waters and aquatic creatures. It can involve travel and exploration which, depending on your outlook, can be a real plus, while allowing you to earn a living.

FAQ

Can you make 100K a year as a marine biologist?

Some specialized marine biologists can command a salary of $100,000 or more a year, including marine veterinarians, marine biochemists, marine ecologists, marine mammalogists, or marine geneticists. The average marine biologist, however, may only earn half that amount.

What do people like about being a Marine Biologist?

Some marine biologists love traveling to distant places, working with marine life, meeting new people, and working toward having a positive environmental impact.

Is it hard to get hired as a Marine Biologist?

Finding a job as a marine biologist can depend on your field of expertise. Most marine biologists have, at a minimum, a bachelor’s degree, with many acquiring a master’s or doctorate. In addition, job opportunities will rely heavily on being able to relocate, if needed, to an area being studied.

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Photo credit: iStock/Rainer von Brandis

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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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The median pay for a dental assistant was recently calculated to be $44,820 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

If someone is looking for a career in the medical field, but doesn’t want to commit many years and a lot of money to medical school, they may want to look into becoming a dental assistant. This career involves significantly less schooling than one would have to pursue to become a dentist but can offer a stable and rewarding career path.

Keep reading for more insight into what it’s like to work as a dental assistant and what this career’s earning potential can be.

What Are Dental Assistants?

A dental assistant is a healthcare professional who assists dentists in caring for their patients and with general administrative tasks.

Typically, they have completed training as a dental assistant after high school, meaning this can be a potential good job without a college degree.

These are some common responsibilities of dental assistants:

•   Scheduling patient appointments for efficient management

•   Collaborating with patients on medical billing and payment matters

•   Providing instructions to patients on proper oral hygiene practices

•   Preparing both patients and the work area for various treatments and procedures

•   Sterilizing dental instruments to maintain hygiene standards

•   Ensuring the comfort of patients in the dental chair

•   Assisting dentists by handing them instruments during procedures

•   Using suction hoses and other equipment to dry patients’ mouths

•   Processing X-rays and performing lab tasks under the dentist’s guidances

•   Maintaining records of dental treatments for accurate documentation.

As you may have noticed, this job requires a good degree of interaction with coworkers and patients. For this reason, it may be a good fit for those who consider themselves a “people person” and not a great career for an introvert.

Also, it’s important to note that the exact role of a dental assistant can vary based on the state they are working in. This is due to varying state regulations.


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How Much Do Starting Dental Assistants Make a Year?

Understandably, entry-level salaries for dental assistants tend to be less than those for their more experienced counterparts. In terms of how much money a dental assistant makes when they first start their career, here are some numbers: As of 2022, the lowest 10% of workers in this role earned less than $31,450.

However, they can expect to earn more competitive pay over time, as the highest 10% in this role earned more than $59,200.

Recommended: 50 Highest Paying Jobs in the US

What Is the Average Salary for a Dental Assistant?

How much a dental assistant makes an hour can depend a lot on where they choose to work. While the median hourly pay rate for this work is $21.55 per hour as of 2022, the following chart (which goes from highest to lowest) illustrates how greatly this hourly wage can vary on a state level.

What is the Average Dental Assistant Salary by State for 2023

State	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly Wage
Washington	$49,250	$4,104	$947	$23.68
Delaware	$46,132	$3,844	$887	$22.18
Virginia	$45,338	$3,778	$871	$21.80
Maryland	$44,646	$3,720	$858	$21.46
New York	$44,589	$3,715	$857	$21.44
Vermont	$43,670	$3,639	$839	$21.00
Nebraska	$43,601	$3,633	$838	$20.96
Oklahoma	$42,225	$3,518	$812	$20.30
California	$42,159	$3,513	$810	$20.27
Massachusetts	$41,644	$3,470	$800	$20.02
Alaska	$41,274	$3,439	$793	$19.84
Maine	$41,066	$3,422	$789	$19.74
Pennsylvania	$40,842	$3,403	$785	$19.64
Oregon	$40,709	$3,392	$782	$19.57
North Dakota	$40,692	$3,391	$782	$19.56
Idaho	$40,410	$3,367	$777	$19.43
New Jersey	$40,385	$3,365	$776	$19.42
Texas	$40,211	$3,350	$773	$19.33
Colorado	$39,948	$3,329	$768	$19.21
Hawaii	$39,932	$3,327	$767	$19.20
Wisconsin	$39,897	$3,324	$767	$19.18
New Hampshire	$39,776	$3,314	$764	$19.12
Wyoming	$39,041	$3,253	$750	$18.77
Nevada	$39,027	$3,252	$750	$18.76
South Dakota	$38,458	$3,204	$739	$18.49
Indiana	$38,449	$3,204	$739	$18.49
Minnesota	$38,422	$3,201	$738	$18.47
New Mexico	$38,327	$3,193	$737	$18.43
Rhode Island	$37,706	$3,142	$725	$18.13
Arizona	$37,654	$3,137	$724	$18.10
Ohio	$37,380	$3,115	$718	$17.97
Montana	$37,086	$3,090	$713	$17.83
Connecticut	$36,857	$3,071	$708	$17.72
Illinois	$36,849	$3,070	$708	$17.72
Iowa	$36,657	$3,054	$704	$17.62
Alabama	$36,623	$3,051	$704	$17.61
Mississippi	$36,536	$3,044	$702	$17.57
Tennessee	$35,688	$2,974	$686	$17.16
Utah	$35,661	$2,971	$685	$17.14
Missouri	$35,585	$2,965	$684	$17.11
South Carolina	$35,218	$2,934	$677	$16.93
North Carolina	$34,492	$2,874	$663	$16.58
Kansas	$34,399	$2,866	$661	$16.54
Georgia	$34,117	$2,843	$656	$16.40
Louisiana	$33,546	$2,795	$645	$16.13
Michigan	$33,105	$2,758	$636	$15.92
Kentucky	$33,074	$2,756	$636	$15.90
West Virginia	$31,543	$2,628	$606	$15.17
Arkansas	$31,444	$2,620	$604	$15.12
Florida	$30,193	$2,516	$580	$14.52
​​Source: Ziprecruiter

Dental Assistant Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

The majority of dental assistants work in a dentist’s office (90%), but some do work in the offices of physicians (2%) or for the government (2%). As of 2022, dental assistants held about 371,000 jobs and work under the supervision of dentists.

There are some safety concerns (primarily contracting infectious diseases) that come with this role, which is why dental assistants wear protective clothing and equipment. Being exposed to X-ray machines also comes with concerns, but again, there are safety procedures in place to help protect dental assistants.

Because many dental assistants work full-time, they can qualify for employer-sponsored benefits like healthcare, retirement plans, and paid time off. However, if they only work part-time, they might not qualify for benefits.


💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Dental Assistant Salary

Still on the fence about working as a dental assistant? Here are some of the pros and cons of the role:

Pros	Cons
•   High earning potential (top 10% earn more than $59,200) •   Around 55,100 openings for dental assistants projected annually •   Full-time employees are likely to receive benefits •   Minimal schooling required	•   Bottom 10% earn less than $31,450 •   Tiring work with some potential health risks •   Some dental offices only offer part-time work

Recommended: Is $100,000 a Good Salary?

The Takeaway

The median salary for a dental assistant is $44,820, but as they gain work experience, these medical workers can expect to earn more. Because minimal schooling is required to become a dental assistant, many in this field can avoid taking on too much student loan debt.

FAQ

Can you make 100K a year as a dental assistant?

Most dental assistants don’t earn $100,000 per year. The top 10% of earners in this field can earn around $59,200, but the median annual salary is just $44,820.

Do people like being a dental assistant?

Some people find working as a dental assistant to be an engaging and fulfilling career. Because most of their days are spent on patient care, they must enjoy spending time with people. This won’t be an enjoyable role for someone who is an introvert or who is antisocial.

Is it hard to get hired as a dental assistant?

There are more than 55,000 jobs for dental assistants available each year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Depending on your location and other factors, it may not be hard to get hired as a dental assistant.

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Photo credit: iStock/mladenbalinovac

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for a dermatologist as of 2022 is $327,650. This career can be a challenging and rewarding profession, both financially and emotionally. Dermatologists can help their patients look and feel their best. In some cases, they can even save their lives.

Read on to better understand what it’s like to work as a dermatologist, how much they earn, and the benefits and downsides of choosing this line of work.

What Are Dermatologists

Dermatologists are a type of doctors who specialize in the field of dermatology. They manage diagnoses and treatments relating to skin, hair, and nail health. They help patients with issues ranging from eczema and skin infections to acne and skin cancer.

Some dermatologists perform cosmetic procedures like laser treatments, injections, and chemical peels. An important role that dermatologists also take on is educating patients on sun protection to help them avoid running into skin damage and skin cancer.

As you might imagine, considerable training is involved to become a dermatologist. Typically, it can take 12 years of training and education. To complete this, some aspiring dermatologists will take out student loans. The amount of average student loan debt can be similar to the amount any other medical doctor takes on, meaning in the range of $200,000.


💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting Dermatologists Make a Year?

It’s important to note that dermatologists will likely see their salaries rise over time. While their entry-level salary may be lower than the average figure, it should rise over time.

That being said, the lowest 10% of earners in this role make an estimated annual wage of $102,010. So even the lowest income is likely around or over the $100,000 a year salary level.

What is the Average Salary for a Dermatologist?

As briefly noted earlier, the average salary or hourly wage for a dermatologist can be affected by where they work.

This applies to the type of medical practice or healthcare setting they work in. Consider the annual mean wage by workplace, all of which can be relatively high-paying jobs:

•   Offices of physicians: $338,810

•   Offices of other health practitioners: $200,900

•   Personal care services: $126,640

Next, take a closer look at how dermatologist salaries vary by the state they work in, arranged from highest annual pay to lowest.

What is the Average Dermatologist Salary by State for 2023

State	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly Wage
New York	$417,984	$34,832	$8,038	$200.95
Vermont	$410,790	$34,232	$7,899	$197.50
California	$403,464	$33,622	$7,758	$193.97
Maine	$391,809	$32,650	$7,534	$188.37
Idaho	$387,606	$32,300	$7,453	$186.35
Washington	$384,581	$32,048	$7,395	$184.90
Pennsylvania	$382,812	$31,901	$7,361	$184.04
Massachusetts	$378,130	$31,510	$7,271	$181.79
Alaska	$375,736	$31,311	$7,225	$180.64
New Jersey	$374,345	$31,195	$7,198	$179.97
New Hampshire	$373,458	$31,121	$7,181	$179.55
Oregon	$371,445	$30,953	$7,143	$178.58
North Dakota	$371,076	$30,923	$7,136	$178.40
Wisconsin	$368,704	$30,725	$7,090	$177.26
Wyoming	$365,397	$30,449	$7,026	$175.67
Hawaii	$364,033	$30,336	$7,000	$175.02
Colorado	$362,070	$30,172	$6,962	$174.07
Indiana	$358,997	$29,916	$6,903	$172.60
Nevada	$355,272	$29,606	$6,832	$170.80
New Mexico	$354,287	$29,523	$6,813	$170.33
Minnesota	$353,792	$29,482	$6,803	$170.09
Arizona	$351,574	$29,297	$6,761	$169.03
South Dakota	$350,707	$29,225	$6,744	$168.61
Montana	$346,277	$28,856	$6,659	$166.48
Ohio	$344,572	$28,714	$6,626	$165.66
Rhode Island	$344,050	$28,670	$6,616	$165.41
Delaware	$343,410	$28,617	$6,604	$165.10
Alabama	$341,952	$28,496	$6,576	$164.40
Virginia	$339,682	$28,306	$6,532	$163.31
Connecticut	$337,334	$28,111	$6,487	$162.18
Iowa	$336,698	$28,058	$6,474	$161.87
Illinois	$334,142	$27,845	$6,425	$160.65
Mississippi	$333,696	$27,808	$6,417	$160.43
Maryland	$332,886	$27,740	$6,401	$160.04
Tennessee	$328,977	$27,414	$6,326	$158.16
Utah	$328,133	$27,344	$6,310	$157.76
Nebraska	$326,672	$27,222	$6,282	$157.05
Missouri	$322,302	$26,858	$6,198	$154.95
South Carolina	$319,039	$26,586	$6,135	$153.38
Georgia	$318,554	$26,546	$6,126	$153.15
Oklahoma	$316,356	$26,363	$6,083	$152.09
Texas	$315,939	$26,328	$6,075	$151.89
Kansas	$314,148	$26,179	$6,041	$151.03
North Carolina	$312,455	$26,037	$6,008	$150.22
Louisiana	$308,889	$25,740	$5,940	$148.50
Kentucky	$300,127	$25,010	$5,771	$144.29
Michigan	$300,010	$25,000	$5,769	$144.24
West Virginia	$295,651	$24,637	$5,685	$142.14
Arkansas	$285,133	$23,761	$5,483	$137.08
Florida	$281,918	$23,493	$5,421	$135.54

Source: Ziprecruiter

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Dermatologist Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Alongside receiving competitive pay, many dermatologists work full-time and therefore qualify for employer benefits.

•   If they run their own medical practice, they would need to purchase these benefits for themselves and their employees.

•   If they work for a practice they don’t own, a medical group, or in a hospital setting, they should qualify for valuable employee benefits like paid time off, retirement accounts, and healthcare.

Pros and Cons of Dermatologist Salary

The main advantage of a dermatologist salary is that it is usually quite high. The tradeoff for that high salary may be a lot of student loan debt, as noted above.

To work as a dermatologist in the United States, you need to attend and finance medical school after receiving an undergraduate degree, which can be quite time-consuming and costly.

The Takeaway

Working as a dermatologist makes it possible to help people dealing with skin care and concerns, while earning a good salary. Dermatologists earn a median annual wage of $327,650, which is a salary many people would be happy with. However, obtaining the necessary training can be quite expensive, so dermatologists may start their careers with considerable student loan debt to pay off.

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a dermatologist?

It’s very possible to earn $100,000 a year as a dermatologist. Even the 10% of lowest wage earners in this role earn an estimated annual salary of $102,010.

Do people like being a dermatologist?

Many people enjoy working as a dermatologist as this role can be fulfilling. Not only is the work interesting (diagnosing and resolving health concerns), but it involves helping people live healthier and happier lives.

Is it hard to get hired as a dermatologist?

It may not be challenging to find a job as a dermatologist once the applicant has the proper qualifications as the field is growing at a rate that is at least on par with other professions, if not higher.

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Photo credit: iStock/stefanamer

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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The median pay for surgical techs is $56,350 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Working as a surgical tech can be a great way to build a fulfilling career in the medical field. Read on to learn more about a surgical tech’s role and salary, as well as the pros and cons of this job.

What Are Surgical Techs

The role of a surgical tech can vary greatly but generally involves assisting surgeons with tasks, such as closing surgical sites and making incisions. Other common duties include:

•   Readying supplies for surgery

•   Sterilizing equipment

•   Getting the operating room surgery-ready

•   Physically preparing patients for surgery

•   Assisting surgeons during surgery

•   Maintaining sterile environment

•   Keeping track of supplies during and after surgery.

While some of these tasks are solitary, many involve interacting with patients and other members of the medical team. Given this degree of interaction, this can be a very rewarding career choice, although it may not be a good job for antisocial people.

Surgical techs often complete training at a community college or vocational school, typically requiring nine to 24 months of study. For this reason, being a surgical tech can be a good career without a college degree.


💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.

How Much Do Starting Surgical Techs Make a Year?

Here’s information about what a surgical tech can make as an entry-level salary and later on in their career. The lowest 10% of surgical tech earners make less than $35,130 as of 2022.

However, there is a lot of room to move up in this field. The top 10% of earners make on average $95,060, meaning they are very close to making a $100,000 salary per year.

If someone is looking to optimize their earning potential, they should look for a surgical tech role in a high-paying setting. The type of medical office a surgical tech works in can affect how much they earn:

•   Offices of physicians: $62,400

•   Outpatient care centers: $59,740

•   General medical and surgical hospitals; state, local, and private: $58,460

•   Offices of dentists: $48,810.

Recommended: The 50 Highest Paying Jobs in the US

What is the Average Salary for a Surgical Tech?

Those considering training to be a surgical tech may wonder about pay grades. The truth is, that answer depends a lot on the state they end up working in. The median hourly pay rate for this role is $27.09, but as the table illustrates below, can vary greatly by state.

The figures here for average salary and wages are arranged from highest to lowest paying.

What Is the Average Surgical Tech Salary by State for 2023

State	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly Wage
Oregon	$112,962	$9,413	$2,172	$54.31
Alaska	$112,406	$9,367	$2,161	$54.04
North Dakota	$112,389	$9,365	$2,161	$54.03
Massachusetts	$111,047	$9,253	$2,135	$53.39
Hawaii	$110,015	$9,167	$2,115	$52.89
Washington	$107,487	$8,957	$2,067	$51.68
Nevada	$106,280	$8,856	$2,043	$51.10
South Dakota	$106,220	$8,851	$2,042	$51.07
Colorado	$104,887	$8,740	$2,017	$50.43
Rhode Island	$104,629	$8,719	$2,012	$50.30
New York	$99,697	$8,308	$1,917	$47.93
Delaware	$98,598	$8,216	$1,896	$47.40
Vermont	$97,356	$8,113	$1,872	$46.81
Virginia	$97,172	$8,097	$1,868	$46.72
Illinois	$97,143	$8,095	$1,868	$46.70
Maryland	$95,489	$7,957	$1,836	$45.91
Nebraska	$93,450	$7,787	$1,797	$44.93
Missouri	$92,871	$7,739	$1,785	$44.65
California	$92,615	$7,717	$1,781	$44.53
South Carolina	$92,071	$7,672	$1,770	$44.26
Pennsylvania	$91,330	$7,610	$1,756	$43.91
New Jersey	$91,143	$7,595	$1,752	$43.82
Oklahoma	$90,500	$7,541	$1,740	$43.51
Maine	$90,453	$7,537	$1,739	$43.49
Wisconsin	$90,262	$7,521	$1,735	$43.40
North Carolina	$90,170	$7,514	$1,734	$43.35
New Hampshire	$88,816	$7,401	$1,708	$42.70
Idaho	$88,596	$7,383	$1,703	$42.59
Texas	$88,000	$7,333	$1,692	$42.31
Kentucky	$87,715	$7,309	$1,686	$42.17
Wyoming	$87,407	$7,283	$1,680	$42.02
Minnesota	$87,181	$7,265	$1,676	$41.91
Michigan	$86,830	$7,235	$1,669	$41.75
New Mexico	$86,691	$7,224	$1,667	$41.68
Indiana	$86,252	$7,187	$1,658	$41.47
Ohio	$84,743	$7,061	$1,629	$40.74
Arizona	$84,468	$7,039	$1,624	$40.61
Connecticut	$84,039	$7,003	$1,616	$40.40
Mississippi	$83,449	$6,954	$1,604	$40.12
Iowa	$83,345	$6,945	$1,602	$40.07
Montana	$83,195	$6,932	$1,599	$40.00
Arkansas	$82,892	$6,907	$1,594	$39.85
Alabama	$82,157	$6,846	$1,579	$39.50
Utah	$80,963	$6,746	$1,556	$38.92
Tennessee	$80,904	$6,742	$1,555	$38.90
Kansas	$78,574	$6,547	$1,511	$37.78
Georgia	$76,536	$6,378	$1,471	$36.80
Louisiana	$76,117	$6,343	$1,463	$36.59
West Virginia	$70,535	$5,877	$1,356	$33.91
Florida	$67,735	$5,644	$1,302	$32.57

Source: Ziprecruiter

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Surgical Tech Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

It’s very common for surgical techs to hold full-time positions and as such, they tend to qualify for traditional employee benefits like paid time off, retirement accounts, and healthcare. This can be a very demanding role that may require being on call during weekends, holidays, and nights. Shifts can also be very lengthy and last longer than a typical eight-hour workday.

Pros and Cons of Surgical Tech Salary

Still not sure if working as a surgical tech is the right fit? Here are some pros and cons associated with this role’s salary and job requirements.

Pros	Cons
•   Median annual salary is high ($56,350) •   May not need a college degree •   Employment opportunities expected to grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032 •   Around 8,600 openings for this role per year	•   Long shifts that can surpass eight hours •   Physically demanding work •   Can be on call during nights, weekends, and holidays

Recommended: High-paying Trade and Vocational Jobs in 2024

The Takeaway

With a solid median annual salary of $56,350 and the top 10% of income earners in the surgical tech field making more than $95,060, there is a lot of earning potential in this role. The job can be demanding and being on call is often part of the job description, but the high pay can be worth the sacrifices.

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a surgical tech?

It may be possible to make $100,000 a year as a surgical tech for those with a lot of experience or who work in high-cost-of-living areas where standard pay is higher. The top 10% of surgical tech earners make more than $95,060 annually, so the potential to earn six figures is within reach.

Do people like being a surgical tech?

Many people enjoy working as a surgical tech, especially if they have an interest in the medical field and helping people. However, those who are introverts or who consider themselves antisocial may not enjoy this job.

Is it hard to get hired as a surgical tech?

While you have to meet very specific qualifications to work as a surgical tech, if you do, you can likely find job openings in this field. Between 2022 and 2023, surgical tech employment is projected to grow by 5%. This growth rate is faster than average compared to other occupations.

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Photo credit: iStock/SDI Productions

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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News anchors make an average salary of around $48,000 a year, according to ZipRecruiter.

But keep in mind there are many factors taken into account when determining pay, including experience, market size, location, and the size of the employer. For example, news anchors working in locations with larger audience sizes and for bigger networks or cable news will generally make higher salaries.

Let’s take a closer look.

What Are News Anchors?

News anchors are journalists who are responsible for delivering the news to their audience. These professionals can work for a television, radio, cable, or media outlet. Some work in local markets, while others broadcast in national markets or on cable news.

News anchors spend some days in the newsroom and others covering a story out in the field. Many start their careers as reporters, covering a specific beat or coverage area, like state and local government, education, or local businesses.

As a news anchor, it’s important to stay up to date on current events and have strong interview, researching, and writing skills. And since you’ll likely handle breaking news from time to time, it also helps if you’re good at multitasking and staying calm under pressure.

News anchors also have a lot of interaction with other people and work with a team, including producers, reporters, audio engineers, and camera operators. If this much interaction isn’t the right fit for you, you may want to look into jobs for introverts.

Like many journalism roles, a news anchor requires a bachelor’s degree. Internships can be a great way to gain experience in the field, establish contacts, and start building your professional network.

💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting News Anchors Make?

An entry-level news reporter makes an average of $42,378 a year, according to ZipRecruiter.

That said, there are many factors that come into play when determining salary, such as location and experience. It’s common for news anchors to start their careers as reporters in small local markets and work their way up to anchor desks in larger news markets. Bigger markets — and more viewers — typically bring higher salaries.

Many considerations should go into what makes a good entry-level salary, including work schedule flexibility, paid time off, and benefits like health insurance and a retirement plan.

Recommended: How to Save for Retirement

What Is the Average Salary for a News Anchor?

As mentioned, the average salary for a news anchor is $48,077 a year, according to ZipRecruiter. If you want to break it down to how much a news anchor makes an hour, the average is roughly $23.

For the top earners, the average salary is around $58,500 a year, and for the bottom 25th percentile the average salary is $40,000. Some news anchors, usually those working at major news networks, can make more than $100,000 a year.

However, no matter how much you earn, it’s a good idea to set short- and long-term financial goals. A money tracker app can help you monitor your spending and saving and also provide useful insights.

What Is the Average News Anchor Salary by State?

While some news anchors take home a hefty salary, journalism roles tend not to be the highest-paying jobs in a state.

Here are the average salaries for broadcasters, which includes news anchors, by state, according to job site Indeed.

State	Average Annual Salary
Alabama	$41,440
Alaska	$50,158
Arizona	$67,395
Arkansas	$50,095
California	$54,037
Colorado	$38,191
Connecticut	$35,679
Delaware	$48,850
District of Columbia	$72,020
Florida	$58,604
Georgia	$53,861
Hawaii	$48,486
Idaho	$37,746
Illinois	$43,937
Indiana	$40,036
Iowa	$36,817
Kansas	$48,507
Kentucky	$73,544
Louisiana	$33,166
Maine	$48,112
Maryland	$82,211
Massachusetts	$50,718
Michigan	$30,325
Minnesota	$37,208
Mississippi	$28,231
Missouri	$39,389
Montana	$26,619
Nebraska	$35,524
Nevada	$41,694
New Hampshire	$39,691
New Jersey	$54,005
New Mexico	$33,998
New York	$68,577
North Carolina	$48,594
North Dakota	$47,960
Ohio	$35,806
Oklahoma	$27,667
Oregon	$64,004
Pennsylvania	$46,982
Rhode Island	$49,548
South Carolina	$47,231
South Dakota	$46,124
Tennessee	$38,544
Texas	$35,351
Utah	$43,523
Vermont	$47,257
Virginia	$29,835
Washington	$97,632
West Virginia	$46,234
Wisconsin	$57,765
Wyoming	$40,005

Recommended: What Is Competitive Pay?

News Anchor Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

Being in the news industry means covering fresh stories and meeting new people every day, but the pace can be relentless. Breaking news can happen at any time and anywhere, which can mean working beyond a typical 9-5 schedule and having to travel unexpectedly.

News anchor compensations can also include benefits like a retirement savings plan and health insurance. Some roles may also come with added perks like car services and wardrobe stipends. Bonuses can also be common in the industry.

It’s important to note that the journalism industry can be shaky and is expected to shrink in the coming years. The Labor Department forecasts that employment of news analysts, reporters, and journalism will drop 3% from 2022-2032. That means that it expects there to be 56,600 jobs in the industry in 2032 compared to 58,500 in 2022.

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of News Anchor Salary

There are many factors to consider when evaluating a salary, including the local cost of living and your spending and debt levels. Advancing into bigger markets can bring a substantial pay increase for news anchors.

The life of a news anchor can seem glamorous between the wardrobe, hair and makeup, and lights and cameras. But the news cycle can be draining, and there isn’t a lot of flexibility when it comes to the schedule or remote work options.

Morning news anchors will start their days before the sun comes up, preparing for interviews, catching up on news, and reviewing a show’s rundown. If you are looking for roles with more flexibility, you may want to explore work-from-home jobs.

The Takeaway

Becoming a news anchor means taking on the responsibility of delivering news to viewers. A typical news anchor salary is around $48,077 a year, per ZipRecruiter.

But that figure can vary depending on experience, the size of the employer, the size of the market, and other factors. Typically, news anchors start their careers in smaller, local markets. As they gain more experience, they may have opportunities to advance to larger markets, which tend to pay more.

If you’re passionate about the news and want to help keep your community informed, a career as a news anchor may be right for you.

With SoFi, you can keep tabs on how your money comes and goes.

FAQ

What is the highest-paying news anchor job?

Generally speaking, news anchors can make more working in a major, national market. For instance, prime-time television news anchors who work for major media broadcasters can earn millions per year.

Do news anchors make $100k a year?

Anchors who work at a major news network might earn more than $100,000 a year. However, the average salary is closer to $48,077 a year.

How much do news anchors make starting out?

According to ZipRecruiter, an entry-level news reporter earns around $42,378 per year. Location, experience, and the size of the employer can all play a role in a starting salary for a news anchor.

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Photo credit: iStock/milanvirijevic

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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