Forester Salary in 2025: $76,400 Median, Job Outlook & How to Become One
If you're considering a career managing and protecting forests, the pay is solid. The median salary for foresters in the U.S. is $76,400 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That works out to roughly $37 an hour, with most foresters earning between $50,790 and $109,700 (10th to 90th percentile). But salaries vary significantly by state and experience.
Foresters don't just crunch numbers in an office—they work outdoors assessing timber, planning conservation projects, and preventing wildfires. With just over 10,400 foresters employed nationally, it's a small field, and competition for jobs can be strong. But if you have a head for science and a love for the woods, it offers a stable middle-class income with a clear career path.
How much Foresters earn
The BLS reports that foresters earn a mean annual wage of $79,170, or about $37 per hour. Half of all foresters earn between the 25th percentile ($59,720) and 75th percentile ($95,190). The top 10% of earners bring in more than $109,700, while the bottom 10% earn under $50,790.
Pay tends to increase with experience, specialization, and advanced degrees. Foresters working for the federal government often start at higher grades (GS-9 or above) and have structured pay scales, while private-sector roles—especially in consulting or timber companies—can offer bonuses or profit sharing.
- Median salary: $76,400
- Mean salary: $79,170
- Hourly mean: $37.07
- 10th percentile: $50,790
- 90th percentile: $109,700
Pay by state
Where you work has a big impact on your forester salary. The highest-paying state is California, where foresters earn an average of $107,120 per year. Massachusetts follows at $89,650, then Alaska at $87,210, South Carolina at $86,780, and Maryland at $86,100.
On the lower end, Kentucky pays an average of $56,460, Nevada $51,070, and Oklahoma $50,990. Keep in mind cost of living—California's high salary comes with expensive housing, while Oklahoma's lower pay goes further in a cheaper market.
How to become a Forester
Most foresters need a bachelor's degree in forestry, forest science, or a related field like natural resources management. Programs accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF) are the gold standard and often required for federal jobs. Expect courses in ecology, timber measurement, GIS, and forest policy.
After graduation, you typically start as a forestry technician or assistant forester to gain field experience. Many states require foresters to be licensed or certified, especially if they work as consultants or manage private land. Licensure usually involves passing an exam and completing continuing education.
Federal land management agencies—like the U.S. Forest Service—offer direct hiring pathways for recent graduates through the Pathways Program. Private companies and state agencies also hire entry-level foresters, often starting in silviculture, fire management, or timber sales.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in forestry (SAF-accredited preferred)
- Gain field experience as a technician or assistant
- Obtain state licensure if required (pass exam, meet education requirements)
- Consider SAF Certified Forester credential for career advancement
- Apply for federal Pathways Program for recent graduates
Job outlook
Employment of foresters is projected to grow just 1.2% from 2024 to 2034, which is slower than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 1,100 openings per year over the decade, largely from workers retiring or leaving the field.
Competition for jobs will be strong, especially for positions with federal agencies. Applicants with a master's degree, GIS skills, or wildfire management experience will have an edge. Growth will be driven by the need to manage wildfire risk, urban forests, and sustainable timber production.
Frequently asked questions
Is $76,400 a typical salary for foresters?
Yes, $76,400 is the BLS median annual salary. Half of foresters earn more than that, half earn less. The typical range is $50,790 to $109,700.
What education do I need to become a forester?
A bachelor's degree in forestry or a closely related field is the standard. Programs accredited by the Society of American Foresters are preferred by employers, especially for federal jobs.
Will there be many forester jobs in the next decade?
The BLS projects 1.2% growth from 2024–2034, slower than average. However, about 1,100 openings per year are expected due to retirements, so steady but competitive opportunities exist.
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 Foresters data.