Microbiologist Salary 2025: Median $87,990, Growth 4.1%
The median salary for microbiologists in the U.S. is $87,990 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $97,600, or about $42 an hour. Most microbiologists earn between $54,670 (10th percentile) and $150,000 (90th percentile).
How much microbiologists earn
Microbiologists earn a national median of $87,990. The top 10% make over $150,000, while the bottom 10% earn less than $54,670. Industry and location drive the biggest pay differences.
The highest-paying industries are federal government and research. Many microbiologists work in pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing, where salaries often exceed the median.
- Median annual wage: $87,990
- Mean annual wage: $97,600
- Typical range: $54,670 to $150,000
- Employment: 18,940
Pay by state
Massachusetts pays microbiologists the most, with an average salary of $122,350. California ($108,530), Maryland ($108,470), Georgia ($103,070), and New Jersey ($96,020) also rank high. By contrast, the lowest-paying states are Nevada ($64,490), Mississippi ($61,690), and Arkansas ($59,750). Location can swing pay by tens of thousands.
How to become a microbiologist
Microbiologists typically need a bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related field like biology or biochemistry. Lab experience during college is essential; many programs require it for graduation.
A master's or Ph.D. can open higher-level research and management roles. Some positions, especially in clinical or medical microbiology, may require certification from organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
Key steps: earn a degree, get lab experience, consider a master's or doctorate for advanced roles, and pursue certification if working in clinical labs.
- Earn a bachelor's in microbiology or related field
- Gain lab experience through research or internships
- Consider a master's or Ph.D. for higher pay and research independence
- Obtain certification (e.g., ASCP) for clinical microbiology work
Job outlook
Employment of microbiologists is projected to grow 4.1% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to about 1,700 openings each year, largely due to retirements and new lab positions in biotech, public health, and agriculture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a microbiologist in 2025?
The median annual salary is $87,990, with a mean of $97,600 (about $42 per hour). The typical range is $54,670 to $150,000.
Which state pays microbiologists the most?
Massachusetts tops the list with an average salary of $122,350, followed by California ($108,530) and Maryland ($108,470).
What is the job growth for microbiologists?
The BLS projects 4.1% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 1,700 openings per year.
Do you need a PhD to be a microbiologist?
A bachelor's degree is the minimum for entry-level jobs, but many research and management roles require a master's or PhD.
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 Microbiologists data.