Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels salary guide 2025: $92,460 median
The median salary for Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels is $92,460 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2024 estimates (released 2025). The lowest 10% earn about $47,420, while the top 10% bring in over $170,640. Mean hourly pay comes to roughly $44. About 36,850 people work in these roles nationwide.
How much Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels earn
Pay varies widely by experience, vessel type, and location. The overall median is $92,460, but the typical range runs from $47,420 at the 10th percentile to $170,640 at the 90th. That means half of workers earn between those two numbers.
Mean annual wage is $103,720, which works out to about $44 per hour. These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The highest-paying state is Maryland at $138,950 average, followed by Tennessee at $132,710, Louisiana at $117,160, Texas at $111,390, and California at $110,090.
On the low end, Ohio averages $56,070, Michigan $53,590, and Utah $50,010. Coastal and Gulf states with major ports or offshore industries tend to pay more.
How to become Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessel
Most positions require a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) from the Transportation Security Administration. Beyond that, you need a mariner's license or credential issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Licensing is tiered by vessel tonnage and route—start with a lower-level license and upgrade with sea time and exams.
Many workers begin as deckhands or ordinary seamen and accumulate required sea service. Some attend maritime academies (e.g., U.S. Merchant Marine Academy or state academies), which offer degrees and license-prep programs. Others enter through union apprenticeship programs.
- Get a TWIC card (TSA background check).
- Accumulate sea time as a deckhand or in entry-level roles.
- Pass Coast Guard exams for a license (e.g., Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels, or Master/Mate for larger ships).
- Maintain medical certification (Coast Guard physical).
- Consider a maritime academy degree for faster advancement.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment growth of only 0.5% from 2024 to 2034, which is slower than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 4,300 openings per year, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the field. The industry is sensitive to economic cycles; demand for shipping and passenger services drives hiring.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels?
The median annual wage is $92,460 as of May 2024, per the BLS.
How do I become a captain or mate?
You need a TWIC, a U.S. Coast Guard license (earned through sea time and exams), and often a medical certificate. Many start as deckhands or attend a maritime academy.
What states pay Captains, Mates, and Pilots the most?
Maryland tops the list at $138,950 average. Other high-paying states include Tennessee ($132,710), Louisiana ($117,160), Texas ($111,390), and California ($110,090).
What is the job growth for this occupation?
Employment is expected to grow just 0.5% from 2024 to 2034, slower than average. About 4,300 openings arise annually from replacement needs.
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 Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels data.