Epidemiologists Salary 2025: $87k Median, 16% Growth Opens 800 Jobs Yearly
Epidemiologists in the U.S. earn a median annual salary of $87,220, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2023 data. The mean wage hits $97,890, equating to roughly $42 per hour. That's well above the national average for all occupations, reflecting the specialized training and public-health importance of this role.
How much Epidemiologists earn
The typical salary range for epidemiologists is wide: the lowest 10% earn about $61,270, while the highest 10% bring in $138,800. Most fall in between, with the middle 50% earning from around $70,000 to $115,000. Pay varies by employer—federal government roles often lead the pack, followed by state agencies and universities.
Top-paying industries include scientific research and development services, where mean salaries exceed $115,000. Local and state government employers, which hire the largest share of epidemiologists, offer median wages closer to $85,000.
- Median annual wage: $87,220
- Mean annual wage: $97,890 ($42/hour)
- 10th percentile: $61,270
- 90th percentile: $138,800
- Top sector: R&D in physical, engineering, and life sciences ($118,150 mean)
Pay by state
Where you work matters. The highest-paying states for epidemiologists are Massachusetts ($115,890), District of Columbia ($112,370), California ($110,760), New Jersey ($109,760), and Washington ($108,240). These states typically have higher costs of living, but salaries reflect that.
On the low end, Mississippi pays $56,930, Idaho $66,280, and Missouri $66,890. Even in those states, the median is roughly $10,000 to $20,000 above the statewide average for all jobs.
How to become Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists typically need a master's degree in public health (MPH) with a concentration in epidemiology. A bachelor's in a related field like biology or statistics is the first step, but entry-level research assistant roles are limited. Graduate programs take two years, often including a thesis and fieldwork. Some federal jobs require a Ph.D. or medical degree.
Licensing and certification are not mandatory but boost credentials. The Certification in Public Health (CPH) from the National Board of Public Health Examiners is common. State health departments may require a Registered Environmental Health Specialist license for some roles. Most epidemiologists start as research analysts or disease investigators, then move into full epidemiologist positions after completing their master's.
- Earn a bachelor's in public health, biology, or statistics (4 years)
- Complete a Master of Public Health (MPH) in epidemiology (2 years)
- Optionally, gain the Certification in Public Health (CPH); no state license required
- Apply for entry-level roles like disease surveillance analyst or research assistant
- Advance with experience; doctorates open academic and senior federal positions
Job outlook
Employment of epidemiologists is projected to grow 16.2% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 800 new job openings each year, partly from growth, partly from retirements. Current employment stands at 12,090 workers nationwide.
Demand is driven by the ongoing need to track disease outbreaks, chronic conditions, and environmental health threats. Government health agencies and research institutions are top employers. The COVID-19 pandemic spotlighted the field, but long-term trends like data analytics in healthcare and biodefense ensure steady hiring. States with large public health infrastructure—California, Texas, and New York—have the most positions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for epidemiologists?
Massachusetts pays the highest average wage for epidemiologists at $115,890, followed by the District of Columbia ($112,370) and California ($110,760).
Do epidemiologists need a medical degree?
No. Most epidemiologists hold a master's degree in public health (MPH) with an epidemiology concentration. A Ph.D. or medical degree is only required for some research or academic positions.
How many years does it take to become an epidemiologist?
Typically 6 years: 4 years for a bachelor's degree plus 2 years for a master's in public health. Some programs offer combined bachelor's-to-MPH tracks that shorten the timeline.
Is epidemiology a growing career?
Yes, the field is projected to grow 16.2% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with about 800 new jobs per year.
Can you become an epidemiologist with a bachelor's degree only?
Rarely. Most entry-level epidemiologist positions require a master's degree. With a bachelor's, you might qualify for related roles like research assistant or disease investigator, but promotion to epidemiologist typically requires the graduate degree.
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 Epidemiologists data.