Geography Teachers, Postsecondary Salary Guide 2025: How Much They Earn and Job Outlook
The median salary for postsecondary geography teachers in the U.S. is $97,590, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to roughly $47 an hour, with the middle half of earners ranging from about $52,550 to $165,460. With only 3,330 jobs nationwide, it's a small field—but those who land a position often enjoy strong pay and job security on a tenure track.
How much Geography Teachers, Postsecondary earn
The BLS reports a mean annual wage of $102,350 for postsecondary geography teachers, which translates to about $49.21 per hour. The 10th percentile earns $52,550 or less, while the top 10% bring in over $165,460. Most full-time faculty receive benefits like health insurance and retirement contributions on top of their base salary.
- Median annual salary: $97,590
- Mean annual salary: $102,350 ($49.21/hr)
- 10th percentile: $52,550
- 90th percentile: $165,460
Pay by state
Salaries vary significantly by location. California pays the most, with an average of $146,040. Oregon ($113,500), Vermont ($107,790), Connecticut ($105,470), and Maryland ($103,430) also rank in the top five. On the lower end, New Jersey averages $78,540, Mississippi $75,130, and Nebraska $72,300. Keep in mind cost-of-living differences: a California salary stretches less in San Francisco than a Nebraska salary does in Lincoln.
- Highest-paying states: California ($146,040), Oregon ($113,500), Vermont ($107,790), Connecticut ($105,470), Maryland ($103,430)
- Lower-paying states: New Jersey ($78,540), Mississippi ($75,130), Nebraska ($72,300)
How to become Geography Teachers, Postsecondary
To teach geography at a college or university, you almost always need a doctorate (Ph.D.) in geography or a closely related field. Some community colleges hire master's-level instructors, but a Ph.D. is the standard for tenure-track roles at four-year institutions.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in geography or a related discipline (e.g., environmental science, GIS).
- Complete a master's degree in geography, often required before applying to Ph.D. programs.
- Earn a Ph.D. in geography. This involves coursework, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation.
- Gain teaching experience as a graduate teaching assistant or adjunct instructor.
- Publish research in academic journals and present at conferences to build a competitive CV.
- Apply for faculty positions. The job market is competitive; expect to relocate.
Job outlook
Employment of postsecondary geography teachers is projected to grow 3.3% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 300 job openings per year, most arising from retirements or faculty leaving for other positions. Because the field is small, growth won't produce a huge number of new posts—but steady demand for geography instruction, especially in GIS and environmental geography, should sustain opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a postsecondary geography teacher?
Entry-level salaries typically fall around the 10th percentile, which is $52,550 per year. Starting pay varies by institution type (community college vs. research university) and location.
Do I need a PhD to teach geography at a college?
Most four-year colleges and universities require a PhD for tenure-track positions. Community colleges may hire instructors with a master's degree, but a PhD opens the most opportunities.
What are the highest-paying states for this job?
California leads with an average of $146,040, followed by Oregon ($113,500), Vermont ($107,790), Connecticut ($105,470), and Maryland ($103,430).
Is there demand for postsecondary geography teachers?
Yes, but modestly. The field is projected to grow 3.3% over the next decade, with about 300 annual openings nationwide. Competition for tenure-track roles is strong.
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 Geography Teachers, Postsecondary data.