Atmospheric and Space Scientists Salary 2025: $99,070 Median, How to Become One
Atmospheric and Space Scientists earn a median annual salary of $99,070 (mean $106,110, about $48/hour), according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The typical range runs from $53,060 at the 10th percentile to $161,890 at the 90th.
How much Atmospheric and Space Scientists earn
The median wage for Atmospheric and Space Scientists is $99,070 per year. Half of all workers earn between $53,060 and $161,890. The highest-paid 10% pull in over $161,890.
Pay varies heavily by employer type. Federal government roles often pay on the high end; local TV weather gigs are lower. Experience and advanced degrees push earnings up.
Pay by state
Maryland tops the list at $128,800, followed by California ($124,920), Hawaii ($121,010), New Jersey ($120,180), and Idaho ($119,430). At the bottom: Arkansas ($71,940), Nebraska ($60,540), and New Hampshire ($42,820).
Location matters a lot — coastal states with big government or private-sector weather research pay more than smaller markets.
How to become Atmospheric and Space Scientist
You'll need at least a bachelor's degree in meteorology, atmospheric science, or a related field like physics or math. Many research or federal roles require a master's or PhD.
The typical path: earn a BS in atmospheric science, complete an internship at NOAA or a TV station, then pass a federal certification if aiming for government work. State licensing isn't common, but the AMS (American Meteorological Society) offers voluntary certification.
- Step 1: Get a bachelor's in meteorology or atmospheric science.
- Step 2: Gain experience through internships or research assistant roles.
- Step 3: Consider a master's for advanced positions or federal employment.
- Step 4: Obtain AMS Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) if pursuing TV weather.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow only 0.7% from 2024 to 2034 — slower than average for all occupations. That's about 700 openings each year, mostly due to replacements for retirees.
Government budgets and private weather services drive demand. Competition is stiff for TV meteorologist roles; research and consulting have better prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What does an Atmospheric and Space Scientist do?
They study weather, climate, and atmospheric phenomena. Some forecast, others research climate change or space weather. Work settings include government agencies (NOAA), TV stations, and private firms.
Is $99,070 the average salary?
It's the median — half earn more, half less. The mean is $106,110. Pay depends on location, experience, and sector.
Is it hard to become an Atmospheric and Space Scientist?
The bachelor's is fairly straightforward, but competition for TV jobs is high. Federal research roles often require a master's or PhD.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Atmospheric and Space Scientists data.