Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, and Aquacultural Animals Salary 2025: $36,670 Median Pay
The median annual wage for farmworkers, farm, ranch, and aquacultural animals is $36,670, or about $18 per hour based on BLS estimates. Typical pay ranges from $27,360 at the 10th percentile to $54,080 at the 90th. The mean wage is $39,260.
How much Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, and Aquacultural Animals earn
The national median salary is $36,670. Half of workers earn less than that, half earn more. The bottom 10% make around $27,360, while the top 10% earn up to $54,080. Average pay across the occupation (mean annual wage) is $39,260, reflecting a mix of entry-level and experienced workers.
Pay varies by experience, employer, and state. The highest-paid workers often have specialized skills in animal care, breeding, or aquaculture. Many positions are seasonal, so annual earnings might fluctuate.
Pay by state
Alaska pays the highest average wage at $50,450, followed by West Virginia ($48,460), Hawaii ($47,050), Minnesota ($46,020), and Washington ($45,370). On the lower end, Ohio averages $31,200, Arkansas $29,340, and Georgia $28,410.
Cost of living and local demand drive these differences. The BLS data reflects annual mean wages for each state.
How to become Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, and Aquacultural Animal
Most employers require no formal education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is typical. New hires learn animal handling, feeding, cleaning, and basic health monitoring from experienced workers.
Some positions prefer candidates with a driver's license, physical stamina, and comfort working outdoors in all weather. Certifications in animal first aid or aquaculture can improve prospects but are not mandatory.
- No college degree required; high school diploma or GED is typical.
- Get hired as a farmhand or ranch assistant and learn from veteran workers.
- Gain experience with livestock, poultry, or fish on a farm, ranch, or hatchery.
- Optional: take courses in animal science or vocational agriculture through community colleges or extension programs.
- For aquaculture, some employers prefer knowledge of water quality management or fish husbandry.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to decline by 5% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of about 31,200 openings each year, mostly due to retiring workers and automation. While total jobs shrink, turnover is high, so there are still opportunities. Growth in organic farming and local food systems may create some new jobs, but mechanization limits expansion.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for farmworkers, farm, ranch, and aquacultural animals in 2025?
The median annual wage is $36,670, with a typical range of $27,360 to $54,080. The mean wage is $39,260.
How do I become a farmworker for animals?
No formal education beyond high school is required. Get hired and learn on the job. Physical stamina and a willingness to work outdoors are key.
Is there job growth for this occupation?
No, the BLS projects a 5% decline from 2024 to 2034, though about 31,200 openings per year will occur from workers leaving the field.
Which states pay the highest wages?
Alaska ($50,450), West Virginia ($48,460), and Hawaii ($47,050) top the list. Lower-paying states include Ohio, Arkansas, and Georgia.
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 Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, and Aquacultural Animals data.