Fish and Game Warden Salary in Independence, MO: $44,880 (2026)

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

Independence offers a median fish and game warden salary of $44,880, which is $1,584 below the Missouri state average of $46,464. Compared to the national median of $52,800, Independence pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Independence's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 85% of the national average. This means the $44,880 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $52,800 in an average-cost city. This makes Independence an attractive option for fish and game wardens seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for fish and game wardens in Independence spans from $28,900 at the 10th percentile to $69,700 at the 90th percentile — a $40,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $30,600, while senior fish and game wardens with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $66,300. With a population of 123,011, Independence is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.

Fish and Game Warden Salary in Independence by Experience

In Independence, an entry-level fish and game warden earns around $30,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $66,300 per year. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$30,600

$-5,400 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$45,900

$-8,100 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$66,300

$-11,700 vs national

Percentile	Independence	MO State	National
10th Percentile	$28,900	$29,920	$34,000
25th Percentile	$35,700	$36,960	$42,000
Median (50th)	$44,880	$46,464	$52,800
75th Percentile	$57,800	$59,840	$68,000
90th Percentile	$69,700	$72,160	$82,000

Percentile

Independence

10th Percentile

$28,900

25th Percentile

$35,700

Median (50th)

$44,880

75th Percentile

$57,800

90th Percentile

$69,700

How to Become a Fish and Game Warden in Independence

Education

Most fish and game warden positions require a bachelor's degree. Independence 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 Independence may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Fish and Game Warden Salary in Independence

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

The median fish and game warden salary in Independence, Missouri is $44,880 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $52,800. Salaries range from $28,900 (10th percentile) to $69,700 (90th percentile).

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

Based on the median annual salary of $44,880, a fish and game warden in Independence earns approximately $22 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

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

Independence's median fish and game warden salary of $44,880 is 3.4% below the Missouri state average of $46,464. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.

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

Independence has a cost of living index of 85% compared to the national average. This means a fish and game warden salary of $44,880 in Independence 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 Independence? ▼

Most fish and game warden positions in Independence 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 Independence, Missouri