Fish and Game Warden Salary 2025: $74,060 Median, Top States & -6% Job Decline
Fish and Game Wardens earn a median salary of $74,060, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with mean annual pay of $74,950 (about $36 per hour). The typical range runs from $50,990 at the 10th percentile to $100,980 at the 90th. With only 5,770 wardens employed nationwide, it's a small field — and one projected to shrink.
How much Fish and Game Wardens earn
Median pay for Fish and Game Wardens hit $74,060 in 2024. The mean hourly wage breaks down to roughly $36.03. Experience and location drive wide variation: entry-level wardens at the 10th percentile earn around $50,990, while veterans in the top 10% take home over $100,980.
Pay depends heavily on state budgets, cost of living, and whether the role is state or federal. Most wardens work for state fish and wildlife agencies; some federal positions (e.g., with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service) follow different pay scales, but BLS data here covers all nonfederal wardens.
Pay by state
California leads the pack at $100,090 average annual wage, followed by Iowa ($98,260), Indiana ($93,990), Nevada ($91,750), and Maryland ($89,300). These states typically have higher living costs or aggressive conservation funding.
At the low end, Kentucky pays a mean of $54,570, Pennsylvania $50,250, and Florida just $31,200 — the lowest of any state with reported data. Florida's figure likely reflects a mix of part-time or limited-term roles, but it underscores how location can swing your paycheck by $70,000 or more.
How to become Fish and Game Warden
Most wardens start with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, wildlife management, or a related field. A few agencies accept an associate's plus law enforcement experience. After college, you'll need to complete a police academy — many states require POST certification — plus specialized fish and game law training.
State wildlife agencies often require passing a civil service exam, a physical fitness test, and a background check. Some also demand a probationary period in the field. Experience as a park ranger, conservation officer intern, or military police can help. Licensing is state-specific, so check your target agency's requirements.
Job outlook
The BLS projects a -6% decline in employment for Fish and Game Wardens from 2024 to 2034, meaning about 500 openings per year. Most openings come from retirements and turnover, not growth. Budget constraints and limited state hires are driving the contraction.
Competition will be stiff: for every warden job, dozens of qualified applicants may apply. Geographic flexibility improves your odds — especially in high-pay states like California or Iowa, which have larger agencies.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest-paying state for fish and game wardens?
California, at $100,090 average annual wage. Iowa ($98,260) and Indiana ($93,990) also pay well.
How long does it take to become a fish and game warden?
Typically 2-4 years for a degree plus 3-6 months for police academy and agency training. Total about 3-5 years from start to field-ready.
Is the job market for fish and game wardens growing?
No — the BLS projects a 6% decline from 2024 to 2034, with about 500 yearly openings mostly from retirements.
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 Fish and Game Wardens data.