Historians Salary 2025: $76,750 Median, Top States Pay Over $120,000
Historians earned a median annual salary of $76,750 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage was $81,240, or about $37 per hour. The typical range stretches from $42,730 at the 10th percentile to $131,810 at the 90th. Only 3,450 historians work in the U.S., but about 300 openings open each year due to replacement needs.
How much Historians earn
Pay varies widely by experience and location. Entry-level historians (10th percentile) earn around $42,730, while top earners (90th percentile) make $131,810. The median $76,750 is the midpoint—half earn more, half less. Federal government roles often pay the highest, followed by research organizations and universities.
Pay by state
Massachusetts pays historians the most: $121,710 average. Maryland ($120,580), D.C. ($118,290), Minnesota ($103,040), and Virginia ($101,920) round out the top five. On the low end, Utah ($33,840), Wisconsin ($45,810), and Mississippi ($46,010) pay the least. Relocation or remote work can boost earnings significantly.
How to become Historian
Most historian jobs require a master’s degree in history or a related field. A bachelor’s degree is the minimum for some entry-level positions, but advancement typically demands graduate education. Many historians also hold a Ph.D., especially for university research or teaching roles. Practical experience through internships, archives, or museum work is valuable. Certification is not mandatory, but a Certified Archivist credential can help for certain roles. Skills in data analysis, foreign languages, and digital humanities are increasingly expected.
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in history or a related discipline.
- Pursue a master’s degree (often required for federal positions).
- Consider a Ph.D. for academic or high-level research roles.
- Gain experience through internships, fellowships, or part-time work in archives, museums, or historical societies.
- Develop supplementary skills: writing, data analysis, foreign languages, digital tools.
Job outlook
Employment of historians is projected to grow 2.2% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 300 openings each year, mostly from workers leaving the field. Competition is strong because the occupation is small and attracts many qualified candidates. Job prospects are best for those with practical training in public history, preservation, or digital humanities.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for historians in 2025?
The median annual salary for historians is $76,750, based on 2024 BLS data. The mean wage is $81,240.
Which states pay historians the most?
Massachusetts ($121,710), Maryland ($120,580), Washington D.C. ($118,290), Minnesota ($103,040), and Virginia ($101,920) are the top-paying states.
What education do you need to become a historian?
Most historian jobs require a master’s degree in history or a related field. A bachelor’s degree may suffice for some entry-level roles, but a Ph.D. is common for academic positions.
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 Historians data.