Political Scientist Salary in 2025: $142,080 Median, Decline in Jobs
The median political scientist earns $142,080 per year, or about $68 an hour. The typical salary range runs from $83,350 at the 10th percentile to $195,190 at the 90th. These figures come from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2024 OEWS survey.
Employment in the occupation is small — just 5,540 jobs nationally — and the BLS projects a 3.1% decline from 2024 to 2034, with about 500 openings per year. The decline reflects reduced demand in some government and academic settings.
How much Political Scientists earn
The national average salary is $142,510, and the median is $142,080. Hourly, the median works out to $68.31. The top 10% earn above $195,190, while the bottom 10% make $83,350 or less.
Pay varies mostly by employer type. Federal government jobs tend to pay above the median, while state and local government roles often fall in the lower half. Nonprofits and consulting firms fall in between.
- Median annual wage: $142,080
- Mean annual wage: $142,510
- 10th percentile: $83,350
- 90th percentile: $195,190
Pay by state
The highest-paying state is Maryland, where political scientists average $153,380. Close behind are the District of Columbia ($152,530), Washington ($147,060), Pennsylvania ($140,020), and Massachusetts ($133,930).
Lower-paying states include Illinois ($103,780), Michigan ($86,290), and New Hampshire ($74,560). Note that a few states have very few political scientists, which can make the average less stable.
How to become Political Scientist
Most political scientists need a master's degree or Ph.D. in political science, public administration, or a related field. A bachelor's degree is typically insufficient for research or teaching roles outside entry-level positions.
Key steps: earn a bachelor's in political science or a related social science; complete a master's or doctorate with a thesis/dissertation; gain research experience through internships, assistantships, or fellowships; publish or present research to build a reputation. Licensure is not required, but strong analytical and writing skills are essential.
- Earn a bachelor's degree (political science, economics, sociology)
- Complete a master's or Ph.D. in political science or public policy
- Gain research experience via internships, assistantships, or fellowships
- Build a portfolio of published work or reports
- Consider joining the American Political Science Association for networking
Job outlook
Employment of political scientists is projected to decline 3.1% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of about 170 jobs. The BLS attributes this to budget constraints in government and shifts in academic hiring.
Despite the decline, about 500 openings per year will arise from workers retiring or leaving the field. Competition will be strong, especially for academic posts. The best opportunities may be in federal government, think tanks, and consulting firms.
Frequently asked questions
Is political scientist a good career?
It can be, especially if you enjoy research and analysis. Pay is well above average, but the job market is small and shrinking slightly. The median $142,080 salary is high, but competition is stiff.
What is the highest paying political science job?
Among political scientists, the top 10% earn over $195,190. Outside the occupation, political science majors may earn more as lawyers or executives, but within the science itself, federal government and consulting pay best.
How many political scientists are there?
According to the BLS, there were 5,540 political scientists employed in the U.S. in 2024. It's a small occupation concentrated in Washington D.C., academia, and think tanks.
What is the job growth for political scientists?
Employment is projected to decline 3.1% from 2024 to 2034. This is a net loss, but ongoing replacement needs create about 500 openings per year.
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 Political Scientists data.