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If you have an interest in both art and technology, and a knack for creating distinctive visual designs, you might consider a career as a graphic designer. On average, graphic designers make anywhere from $26,500 and $89,500 a year in the U.S., according to ZipRecruiter.

How much money a graphic designer makes, however, can vary widely depending on education, experience, job location, and industry. But with a little career savvy, you can fulfill your creative passions while avoiding the role of a starving artist.

What Are Graphic Designers?

A graphic designer creates visuals to bring ideas to life. They can render their projects by hand or by using design software. Graphic designers can get paid by the hour or earn a yearly salary working for a company.

Here’s a look at some of the duties you might have as a graphic designer.

•   Designing visual marketing materials: This may include creating brand logos, websites, brochures, advertisements, packaging, and other promotional materials.

•   Targeting an audience: Graphic designers must research and understand their target audience so their product can successfully communicate a client’s message.

•   Creating and editing images: This can include both illustrations and photographs.

•   Choosing colors, layout design, and typography: A graphic designer’s mission is to deliver a product that is effective and eye-catching.

•   Staying current: Designers need to stay up to date with the latest design software and trends.

•   Maintaining deadlines: Graphic designers often need to juggle multiple projects while meeting strict deadlines.

Working as a graphic designer is generally not a job for introverts and antisocial people. While you may do a fair amount of solo design work, you’ll likely be asked to collaborate with copy editors and marketing teams, meet with clients, and present designs to co-workers and clients for feedback.

Recommended: Best Low-Stress Jobs for Introverts With Anxiety

How Much Do Starting Graphic Designers Make a Year?

While most entry-level graphic designers won’t initially get paid $100,000 a year, it is a position that requires a specific skill set, so you’re likely to earn more than the minimum wage. The average entry level graphic designer salary in the U.S. is $59,801 as of January 26, 2024, but the range typically falls between $53,301 and $68,401.


💡 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.

What is the Average Salary for a Graphic Designer?

On average, graphic designers make anywhere from $26,500 and $89,500, with the average falling at 55,951.

How much you can earn as a graphic designer ultimately depends on how much experience you have and what particular design niche you choose. For example, a lead graphic designer can make $129,541 per year, while a user interface (UI) designer can bring in as much as $159,500.

While working as a graphic designer is not one of the highest paying jobs in the U.S., those with an interest in both technology and art can find this career deeply fulfilling. The job also provides the opportunity to continually tackle new projects, keeping the work fresh and challenging.

Recommended: What Is a Good Entry Level Salary?

What is the Average Graphic Designer Salary by State?

Geographic location can influence how much money a graphic designer can make in the U.S. Here’s a look at the average graphic designer salary by state.

State	Average Graphic Designer Salary
Alabama	$48,622
Alaska	$54,797
Arizona	$49,991
Arkansas	$41,747
California	$55,972
Colorado	$53,038
Connecticut	$48,933
Delaware	$61,246
Florida	$40,087
Georgia	$45,296
Hawaii	$53,016
Idaho	$53,650
Illinois	$48,923
Indiana	$51,046
Iowa	$48,668
Kansas	$45,670
Kentucky	$43,911
Louisiana	$44,537
Maine	$54,522
Maryland	$59,274
Massachusetts	$55,287
Michigan	$43,952
Minnesota	$51,011
Mississippi	$48,507
Missouri	$47,245
Montana	$49,237
Nebraska	$57,887
Nevada	$51,813
New Hampshire	$52,808
New Jersey	$53,618
New Mexico	$50,884
New York	$59,198
North Carolina	$45,792
North Dakota	$54,025
Ohio	$49,627
Oklahoma	$56,060
Oregon	$54,047
Pennsylvania	$54,224
Rhode Island	$50,061
South Carolina	$46,758
South Dakota	$51,059
Tennessee	$47,380
Texas	$53,386
Utah	$47,345
Vermont	$57,977
Virginia	$60,192
Washington	$65,386
West Virginia	$41,878
Wisconsin	$52,969
Wyoming	$51,832

Recommended: Is a $100,000 Salary Good?

Graphic Designer Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Within the field of graphic design, there are a number of specialty areas you might consider. Here’s a look at some of the most common types of graphic designers.

•   Web designers specialize in creating functional and visually appealing layouts, while ensuring the design elements are user-friendly.

•   User experience (UX) designers craft the user experience of mobile apps, websites, and other products.

•   User interface (UI) designers focus on the visual, interactive elements of apps, websites, and electronic devices to create aesthetically-pleasing interfaces.

•   Illustrators create visual designs for ad campaigns, magazines, books, and other mediums. Some may specialize in medical illustrations or children’s books.

•   Print designers come up with visual images and logos for brochures, business cards, and packaging materials.

•   Identity and branding designers create visual identities for companies and products.

•   Environmental graphic designers create visual designs for physical spaces, including museums, stores, and public spaces.

•   Motion graphic designers can work on animation and moving graphics for TV and movie title sequences, how-to videos, and more.

Degree requirements: To earn competitive pay, most aspiring graphic designers will need to obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited graphic design program. You may also need some additional technical training to meet hiring qualifications for the positions listed above.

Job benefits for a salaried graphic designer can include:

•   Health insurance

•   Dental insurance

•   Vision insurance

•   Vacation/sick leave

•   Retirement plan

💡 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 Being a Graphic Designer

Every job has its pluses and minuses. Here a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of being a graphic designer.

Pros of Being a Graphic Designer

•   Creative fulfillment: Graphic designers get to stretch their artistic muscles by developing captivating visuals for their clients.

•   Good work-life balance: Salaried graphic designers typically work nine-to-five hours. Many have the opportunity to work from home.

•   Freelancing options: If you get tired of working in the same place with the same people, you can choose to freelance. Graphic design is a job you can do anywhere at any time.

•   Being part of a team: You’ll likely collaborate with design team, clients, and marketing professionals.

•   Career longevity: As long as you stay current and on top of your game, you can work as a graphic designer at any age. You could even potentially pick up freelance work as a retiree.

Cons of Being a Graphic Designer

•   Sedentary lifestyle: Being a graphic designer doesn’t require the physical demands of a trade job. You’ll spend a lot of time behind a computer monitor.

•   Solitary work stints: While it’s true you’ll have chances to work with a creative team, much of your hour-to-hour creating happens alone.

•   Stressful deadlines: Even though office hours are typically nine to five, advertising campaigns and projects have hard deadlines you’ll be expected to meet.

•   Difficult clients: Clients may be critical of what you come with, or constantly change their minds.

•   Limited advancement opportunities: Graphic designers tend to stay in their lane. However, you could be moved into a managerial position, and there is still the potential for pay raises every year.

The Takeaway

If you crave expressing yourself as a visual artist, working as a graphic designer can pay you an average of $55,951 a year for doing what you love. Being a graphic designer also allows you to work in an energetic, collaborative atmosphere, while reaping creative and financial rewards.

Whatever career path you ultimately choose, you’ll want to make sure your potential earnings can cover your everyday living expenses. Try creating a budget and check out financial tools that can help track your spending.

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

FAQ

Can you make $100k a year as a graphic designer?

The average salary on the high end for a general graphic designer is $89,500 in the U.S.. While it’s not impossible to make $100,000, you would have to be at the top of your skill set and acquire some specialized experience.

Do people like being a graphic designer?

For many people, graphic design is a stimulating and rewarding career. Individuals who enjoy working on innovative, visual projects and collaborating with creative teams will probably like being a graphic designer.

Is it hard to get hired as a graphic designer?

Landing a job as a general graphic designer can be competitive. You may find it easier to get hired if you have a particular design specialty, such as UX (user experience), UI (user interface), or product design.

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Photo credit: iStock/Moyo Studio

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.

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.

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The median salary for a truck driver is $49,920 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you love life on the road and to work independently, a career as a professional truck driver might suit you. What’s more, you may be able to earn significantly more than the average: Truck drivers in the United States can make between $40,000 and $95,000 a year, and possibly even more.

How much a truck driver makes depends on several factors, including what kind of truck you drive, where you work, and your driving experience. Read on to learn more about this. Also, before you decide to hit the gas, it’s wise to investigate the benefits and drawbacks of the trucker lifestyle, which are also reviewed below.

What Are Truck Drivers?

Truck drivers are certified professionals trained to operate large commercial vehicles. They typically deliver large quantities of goods from one location to another.

A truck driver can spend long hours alone on the road, meaning it can be a good fit for introverts and a good job for antisocial people. Most truckers are employed by a trucking company, but some truck drivers make enough money to buy their own rigs and work as independent contractors.

Truck drivers typically must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) through their state, as well as specialized training and skills in order to drive this kind of vehicle (you’ll read more about this below).

Some of the responsibilities of a truck driver include:

•   Driving and operating commercial vehicles

•   Pre-inspecting the truck

•   Navigating road maps and destination routes

•   Verifying pick-up loads for accuracy and delivering cargo as instructed

•   Loading and unloading the goods

•   Maintaining basic vehicle maintenance

•   Complying with company safe work practices and policies

•   Accurately filling out company paperwork for deliveries

•   Staying current on truck driving permits and qualifications

•   Being able to lift up to 80 pounds repeatedly throughout the day.

Being a truck driver can be a good way to make money as a retiree. In fact, many cargo companies hire retired couples, as they can share the load and get more done together. You and your partner could travel in retirement while making extra income.


💡 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 Truck Drivers Make a Year?

Entry-level truck drivers can make a salary ranging between $32,348 to $52,837, an average of $41, 342 a year. Salaries can vary depending on several factors, including the driver’s experience, the kind of truck they drive, and the homebase location and the cost of living there.

Some commercial trucking companies may pay novice drivers by the hour vs. a yearly salary. Even starting out, a trucker can make more than the average minimum wage, bringing in around $17.73 an hour.

Recommended: Should the Minimum Wage Be Raised?

What is the Average Salary for a Truck Driver?

You’ve already learned that the median salary for a truck driver is just shy of $50,000 a year. That said, there can be the potential to make over $100,000 a year doing this job. Keep in mind, the range of what you can make depends heavily on what kind of truck you drive, your experience, and job title.

Here’s an example of the pay ranges in the truck driving industry:

•   Private fleet driver: $29,992

•   Mining industry driver: $40,655

•   Hazmat driver: $61,068

•   Tanker driver: $$62,166

•   Ice road driver (seasonal): $66,422

•   Regional truck driver: $75,877

•   Oversized truck driver: $82,262

•   Team truck driver: $119,464

•   Owner operator: $320,912

Recommended: Which Trade Jobs Make the Most Money

What is the Average Truck Driver Salary by State?

A big factor in how much money a truck driver makes a month or in a year depends where they live. As with most jobs, trucker salaries can fluctuate from state to state, and some areas may have higher-paying jobs than others.

Here are the averages for local truck drivers by state, in alphabetical order:

State	Local Truck Driver Annual Salary
Alabama	$61,983
Alaska	$65,071
Arizona	$63,728
Arkansas	$49,018
California	$56,755
Colorado	$62,188
Connecticut	$59,005
Delaware	$58,851
Florida	$51,100
Georgia	$57,742
Hawaii	$63,210
Idaho	$54,193
Illinois	$57,444
Indiana	$65,073
Iowa	$59,276
Kansas	$54,726
Kentucky	$51,665
Louisiana	$54,627
Maine	$55,568
Maryland	$57,034
Massachusetts	$65,173
Michigan	$51,518
Minnesota	$62,568
Mississippi	$58,142
Missouri	$55,284
Montana	$62,767
Nebraska	$55,931
Nevada	$61,525
New Hampshire	$55,251
New Jersey	$66,994
New Mexico	$63,095
New York	$62,095
North Carolina	$53,615
North Dakota	$64,470
Ohio	$61,058
Oklahoma	$54,165
Oregon	$64,604
Pennsylvania	$56,890
Rhode Island	$59,839
South Carolina	$54,745
South Dakota	$60,931
Tennessee	$58,297
Texas	$53,737
Utah	$57,956
Vermont	$60,476
Virginia	$58,158
Washington	$65,467
West Virginia	$43,937
Wisconsin	$65,631
Wyoming	$66,508

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.

Truck Driver Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

In order to become a professional truck driver you have to be 18 to 21 years of age (the requirement differs from state to state) and have a clean driving record, including no DUIs. Most truck companies require their employees to have a high school diploma or a GED, and undergo routine drug tests.

The biggest requirement to becoming a truck driver is obtaining proper certification: your commercial driver’s license (CDL), as mentioned above. Truck driving certification can be done by:

•   Enrolling in a truck driver training program. While not required, these programs can prepare you for the CDL with classroom and hands-on training.

•   Passing a physical exam to determine you are fit enough to handle a commercial vehicle.

•   Obtain a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) via a written exam. This will allow you to drive a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder.

•   Getting your commercial driver’s license (CDL). This requires a written and driving exam.

•   Completing additional state requirements for driving vehicles such as tankers and those carrying hazardous materials.

Once you obtain your CDL and are hired by a company, many salaried truck driver jobs can come with the following benefits:

•   Health insurance

•   Paid time off

•   Retirement plans

•   Bonuses and incentives for reaching performance goals]

Pros and Cons of Being a Truck Driver

Being a professional truck driver can provide a solid income and a sense of freedom, but the job isn’t for everyone. Here are the biggest positives and negatives of being a truck driver:

Pros:

•   Potential for a steady yearly income.

•   No college degree required.

•   A quick start; most people can earn their CDL in 3 to 4 weeks.

•   High job demand/job security.

•   Opportunities to buy your own rig and be your own boss.

•   Traveling, sometimes across scenic America.

•   Pet perks: Many companies allow truckers to bring their dogs along for the ride.

•   Good benefits/driving bonuses.

•   An independent work day vs. punching the clock.

Cons:

•   Monotonous hours on the road.

•   Driving fatigue.

•   Unhealthy lifestyle due to long, sedentary stretches behind the wheel.

•   Poor diet. Many truckers exist on fast-food options while on the road.

•   Loneliness. You’ll spend days and possibly nights away from family, friends, and co-workers.

Of course, before embarking on any career, you’ll want to make sure your potential earnings will be enough to cover your expenses. Picking and sticking with one of the different budgeting methods can be helpful.

The Takeaway

How much a truck driver makes a year is on average $49,920, though salaries can vary considerably and soar higher if you own your own business. Being a truck driver can be a good fit for those who enjoy being out on the road and who are introverts, but the long hours and being away from home can be challenging.

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a truck driver?

The average truck driver earns $49,920 per year, but you can make $100,000 a year as a truck driver, especially if you own your own truck.

Do people like being a truck driver?

People who don’t mind the long hours and solitude might enjoy being a truck driver. Many truck drivers love the flexibility, salary, and traveling across America.

Is it hard to get hired as a truck driver?

No, it is not that hard. There is currently a shortage of truck drivers in the United States. The demand for CDL drivers is high.

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Photo credit: iStock/RichLegg

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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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

💡 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 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

*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.

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.

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.


💡 Quick Tip: Online tools make tracking your spending a breeze: You can easily set up budgets, then get instant updates on your progress, spot upcoming bills, analyze your spending habits, and more.

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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