Fish and Game Warden Salary in Columbia, MO: $46,464 (2026)

Fish and Game Warden Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)

Columbia offers a median fish and game warden salary of $46,464, which is $0 above the Missouri state average of $46,464. Compared to the national median of $52,800, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Columbia's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $46,464 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $52,800 in an average-cost city. This makes Columbia an attractive option for fish and game wardens seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for fish and game wardens in Columbia spans from $29,920 at the 10th percentile to $72,160 at the 90th percentile — a $42,240 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $31,680, while senior fish and game wardens with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $68,640. With a population of 126,254, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.

Fish and Game Warden Salary in Columbia by Experience

In Columbia, an entry-level fish and game warden earns around $31,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,640 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$31,680

$-4,320 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$47,520

$-6,480 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$68,640

$-9,360 vs national

Percentile	Columbia	MO State	National
10th Percentile	$29,920	$29,920	$34,000
25th Percentile	$36,960	$36,960	$42,000
Median (50th)	$46,464	$46,464	$52,800
75th Percentile	$59,840	$59,840	$68,000
90th Percentile	$72,160	$72,160	$82,000

Percentile

Columbia

10th Percentile

$29,920

25th Percentile

$36,960

Median (50th)

$46,464

75th Percentile

$59,840

90th Percentile

$72,160

How to Become a Fish and Game Warden in Columbia

Education

Most fish and game warden positions require a bachelor's degree. Columbia and the surrounding Missouri area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Wildlife LawConservationLaw EnforcementFirearmsBoating SafetyCommunication

Job Outlook

Nationally, fish and game warden employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Fish and Game Warden Salary in Columbia

How much does a Fish and Game Warden make in Columbia, MO? ▼

The median fish and game warden salary in Columbia, Missouri is $46,464 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $52,800. Salaries range from $29,920 (10th percentile) to $72,160 (90th percentile).

How much does a Fish and Game Warden make per hour in Columbia? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $46,464, a fish and game warden in Columbia earns approximately $22 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Columbia compare to the Missouri state average for fish and game warden pay? ▼

Columbia's median fish and game warden salary of $46,464 is 0.0% above the Missouri state average of $46,464. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Columbia, MO? ▼

Columbia has a cost of living index of 88% compared to the national average. This means a fish and game warden salary of $46,464 in Columbia has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a fish and game warden in Columbia? ▼

Most fish and game warden positions in Columbia require a bachelor's degree. Key skills include Wildlife Law, Conservation, Law Enforcement, Firearms. The job market is projected to grow 3% nationally over the next decade.

Fish and Game Warden Salary in Columbia, Missouri