Miscellaneous Agricultural Workers earn $35,870 median salary: BLS 2025 data
The median pay for Miscellaneous Agricultural Workers is $35,870 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates. That works out to roughly $17 an hour, with the typical range stretching from $31,250 at the 10th percentile to $47,740 at the 90th. About 330,420 people hold these jobs nationwide, which cover a wide variety of hands-on farm tasks not captured by other agricultural titles.
How much Miscellaneous Agricultural Workers earn
The median annual wage for Miscellaneous Agricultural Workers is $35,870, with a mean wage of $38,400. That translates to about $17 per hour at the median. The bottom 10% earn $31,250 or less, while the top 10% make $47,740 or more.
These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey and represent national averages for all experience levels and regions. Pay can vary by employer, location, and specific duties.
Pay by state
The BLS does not publish state-level breakdowns for this occupation in the latest release. Wages tend to be higher in regions with more intensive agriculture, such as California and the Pacific Northwest, and lower in parts of the Southeast and Mountain West. Check your state's occupational employment data on bls.gov for localized figures.
How to become a Miscellaneous Agricultural Worker
No formal education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Most workers learn on the job. Employers often look for physical stamina, comfort with outdoor work, and basic familiarity with hand tools and farm equipment.
Certifications are not mandatory, but a driver's license may be needed for operating vehicles or machinery. Some workers obtain pesticide applicator licenses or forklift certifications to expand their roles. Seasonal or part-time positions are common entry points.
- Typical entry: high school diploma or GED, on-the-job training.
- Optional: commercial driver's license (CDL) for transporting produce or equipment.
- Experience with irrigation, animal care, or machinery can improve job prospects.
Job outlook
The BLS does not publish a specific employment growth projection for Miscellaneous Agricultural Workers for 2024–2034. Overall, employment in farming, fishing, and forestry occupations is expected to decline by 5% over that decade, largely due to mechanization and consolidation. However, the diverse nature of this role — covering tasks machines still can't fully replace — may provide steadier opportunities, especially for those willing to relocate or work multiple seasons.
Frequently asked questions
Do Miscellaneous Agricultural Workers need a college degree?
No. Most workers enter with a high school diploma or equivalent and learn on the job. Some employers may prefer candidates with vocational agriculture courses or a two-year degree, but it's not standard.
What is the highest-paying state for Miscellaneous Agricultural Workers?
The BLS does not provide state-level data for this specific occupation in the latest release. Typically, agricultural wages are highest in states like California, Hawaii, and Washington due to the value of crops and cost of living.
Is the job seasonal?
Often, yes. Many positions follow planting and harvest cycles, leading to seasonal work. However, year-round roles exist at large farms, nurseries, or in animal care. Some workers combine multiple seasonal jobs to maintain full-time hours.
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 Miscellaneous Agricultural Workers data.