Agriculture & Environment New Mexico (NM) Rank #28 of 50

Fish and Game Warden Salary in New Mexico

The median fish and game warden salary in New Mexico is $49,104 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $52,800.

Median Salary
$49,104
vs National
$-3,696
State Rank
#28 of 50
Cost of Living
93%

Fish and Game Warden Salary Overview in New Mexico (2026)

New Mexico ranks #28 out of 50 states for fish and game warden compensation. Fish and Game Warden salaries in New Mexico are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $49,104 per year, fish and game wardens in New Mexico earn $3,696 less than the national median of $52,800.

A key advantage of working in New Mexico is its below-average cost of living (93% of the national index). This means the $49,104 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $52,800 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in New Mexico is significant: fish and game wardens at the 10th percentile earn $31,620, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $76,260 — a $44,640 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Mexico for this role is Santa Fe, where the median reaches $58,080.

Nationally, fish and game warden employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for fish and game wardens across the country.

Fish and Game Warden Salary in New Mexico by Experience

In New Mexico, an entry-level fish and game warden earns around $33,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,540 per year. The cost of living index in New Mexico is 93% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$33,480
$-2,520 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$50,220
$-3,780 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$72,540
$-5,460 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in New Mexico

Percentile NM Salary
10th Percentile $31,620
25th Percentile $39,060
Median (50th) $49,104
75th Percentile $63,240
90th Percentile $76,260

Fish and Game Warden Salary by City in New Mexico

The largest employment areas for fish and game wardens in New Mexico include Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Fish and Game Warden in New Mexico

Education

Most fish and game warden positions require a bachelor's degree. New Mexico has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Wildlife LawConservationLaw EnforcementFirearmsBoating SafetyCommunication

Job Outlook in New Mexico

Nationally, fish and game warden employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). New Mexico's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Fish and Game Warden Salary in New Mexico

How much does a Fish and Game Warden make in New Mexico? ▼
The median fish and game warden salary in New Mexico is $49,104 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $52,800. Salaries range from $31,620 (10th percentile) to $76,260 (90th percentile).
How much does a Fish and Game Warden make per hour in New Mexico? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $49,104, a fish and game warden in New Mexico earns approximately $24 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Mexico a good state for fish and game wardens? ▼
New Mexico ranks #28 out of 50 states for fish and game warden pay. The cost of living index is 93% of the national average. Entry-level fish and game wardens earn $33,480, while senior professionals earn $72,540.
How does New Mexico compare to other states for fish and game warden salary? ▼
The highest paying state for fish and game wardens is Hawaii at $89,760. New Mexico's median of $49,104 ranks #28 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Idaho ($49,632) and Georgia ($49,104).
What is the entry-level fish and game warden salary in New Mexico? ▼
An entry-level fish and game warden in New Mexico earns approximately $33,480 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $50,220. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $72,540.
What city in New Mexico pays fish and game wardens the most? ▼
Santa Fe is the highest paying city in New Mexico for fish and game wardens, with a median salary of $58,080. Other cities include Albuquerque and Las Cruces.