Cartographers and Photogrammetrists Salary Guide 2025: $81,390 Median, 6.4% Growth
The median salary for cartographers and photogrammetrists is $81,390 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data. That works out to roughly $39 per hour, with the typical range spanning from $53,740 at the 10th percentile to $126,950 at the 90th. About 14,260 people held these jobs in 2024.
How much Cartographers and Photogrammetrists earn
The national average (mean) wage is $86,690. Half of workers earn between $53,740 and $126,950. Entry-level positions start around $53,740, while experienced professionals in top roles can exceed $126,950. Pay varies significantly by employer type and location.
- Median annual wage: $81,390
- Mean annual wage: $86,690
- Hourly mean: $39.08
- 10th percentile: $53,740
- 90th percentile: $126,950
Pay by state
California leads the nation with an average salary of $102,780 for cartographers and photogrammetrists, followed by Minnesota ($99,850), Washington ($96,100), Nevada ($93,560), and Massachusetts ($92,230). At the lower end, Georgia ($62,630), Louisiana ($59,990), and Illinois ($54,680) offer the lowest average wages. Regional cost of living and concentration of mapping firms drive these differences.
- Highest-paying: CA $102,780, MN $99,850, WA $96,100, NV $93,560, MA $92,230
- Lowest-paying: GA $62,630, LA $59,990, IL $54,680
How to become a Cartographer or Photogrammetrist
Most cartographers and photogrammetrists hold a bachelor's degree in cartography, geography, geomatics, surveying, or a related field. Coursework in GIS, remote sensing, computer science, and statistics is typical. Some positions require a master's degree for advanced research or management roles. Certification from the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) or the GIS Certification Institute (GISP) can boost credentials. Entry-level jobs often start with on-the-job training under senior staff.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in cartography, geography, or geomatics.
- Take specialized courses in GIS, remote sensing, and computer programming.
- Consider a master's for higher-level positions.
- Obtain professional certification (ASPRS or GISP) for competitive edge.
- Gain experience through internships or entry-level technician roles.
Job outlook
Employment for cartographers and photogrammetrists is projected to grow 6.4% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to roughly 1,000 job openings per year, largely due to the need to replace workers who retire or move to other fields. Increasing demand for geographic data in urban planning, autonomous vehicles, and environmental monitoring fuels growth.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for cartographers and photogrammetrists in 2025?
The national median salary is $81,390 per year, or about $39 per hour. The average (mean) is $86,690, with a typical range of $53,740 to $126,950.
How do I become a cartographer or photogrammetrist?
You typically need a bachelor's degree in cartography, geography, GIS, or a related field. Additional coursework in remote sensing and computer science helps. Professional certification is optional but can improve job prospects.
Is the job market for cartographers growing?
Yes, the field is projected to grow 6.4% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 1,000 new openings each year.
Which states pay the most for cartographers?
California ($102,780), Minnesota ($99,850), Washington ($96,100), Nevada ($93,560), and Massachusetts ($92,230) are the highest-paying states.
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 Cartographers and Photogrammetrists data.