Political Scientists Salary — US State Breakdown (2025)
✓ Sourced directly from BLS OES · Checked for accuracy at every rebuild · Last updated: 2026-09-02
BLS OES May 2025 · SOC 19-3094As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links.
US Salary Overview
The national median wage for political scientists in the United States is $142,080 per year (gross, before tax), based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Around 6,000 people are employed in this occupation nationally. UK data is not available for this occupation — the UK's SOC 2020 classification has no direct equivalent. Signing an offer? Employment contract templates at LawDepot cover offer letters, NDAs and employment agreements.
US Salary Percentiles
| Percentile | Annual (gross) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $83,350 | Entry level / lowest decile |
| 25th | $114,030 | Early career |
| 50th (median) | $142,080 | Typical pay |
| 75th | $174,180 | Experienced |
| 90th | $195,190 | Senior / highest decile |
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| State | Median salary | Mean salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $153,380 | $148,440 | 100 |
| District of Columbia | $152,530 | $154,300 | 3,000 |
| Washington | $147,060 | $143,510 | 110 |
| Pennsylvania | $140,020 | $136,350 | 70 |
| Massachusetts | $133,930 | $139,440 | 170 |
| Colorado | $127,260 | $128,590 | 30 |
| Oregon | $119,460 | $117,330 | — |
| Ohio | $119,370 | $110,980 | 40 |
| Texas | $114,050 | $114,140 | 160 |
| Arizona | $108,770 | $117,910 | 50 |
| Illinois | $103,780 | $104,460 | 110 |
| Michigan | $86,290 | $102,060 | 180 |
| New Hampshire | $74,560 | $99,590 | — |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a political scientists in the US?
The US national median wage for political scientists is $142,080 per year (gross, before tax), based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025).
What is the pay range for political scientists in the US?
Pay ranges from $83,350 at the 10th percentile to $195,190 at the 90th percentile. This difference typically reflects experience level, employer size, and location.
Which US states pay political scientists the most?
The highest-paying states for political scientists include Maryland ($153,380), District of Columbia ($152,530), Washington ($147,060). Pay varies by state due to cost of living, local demand and industry concentration.
How much does political scientists salary vary by state?
The gap between the highest- and lowest-paying states is significant — Maryland ($153,380) pays roughly 106% more than New Hampshire ($74,560). Check the state breakdown above for the exact figure in your location.
Data: BLS OES, May 2025 · Page built 2026-09-02