Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $82,620 | $72,860 | +13.4% vs US |
| State Rank | #7 of 49 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 1,580 jobs | 16,920 jobs | 9.3% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,010 | $24.53 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,260 | $29.94 |
| Median | $82,620 | $39.72 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,970 | $53.35 |
| 90th Percentile | $136,970 | $65.85 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $82,620 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +38.9%, zoologists and wildlife biologists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can zoologists and wildlife biologists increase their salary in California?
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #7 out of 49 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $92,060 |
| Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services | $86,270 |
| Engineering Services | $86,270 |
How are Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists in California is $82,620, which is 13.4% above the national median of $72,860.