Economist Salary in Buffalo, New York
The median economist salary in Buffalo, NY is $118,498 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median and 22.4% below the New York state average.
Economist Pay in Buffalo: What to Expect (2026)
Buffalo offers a median economist salary of $118,498, which is $34,182 below the New York state average of $152,680. Compared to the national median of $113,940, Buffalo pays above average for this role.
Buffalo's cost of living is 92% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for economists in Buffalo spans from $64,480 at the 10th percentile to $205,920 at the 90th percentile — a $141,440 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $67,600, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $192,400. With a population of 278,349, Buffalo is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Economist Salary in Buffalo by Experience
In Buffalo, an entry-level economist earns around $67,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $192,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Buffalo, NY
| Percentile | Buffalo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $64,480 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,280 |
| Median (50th) | $118,498 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $205,920 |
Economist Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Economist in Buffalo
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Buffalo and the surrounding New York area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Buffalo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Buffalo
Browse open economist positions in Buffalo, NY: