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

Forester Salary in New Mexico

The median forester salary in New Mexico is $59,325 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $63,790.

Median Salary
$59,325
vs National
$-4,465
State Rank
#28 of 50
Cost of Living
93%

Forester Salary Overview in New Mexico (2026)

New Mexico ranks #28 out of 50 states for forester compensation. Forester salaries in New Mexico are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $59,325 per year, foresters in New Mexico earn $4,465 less than the national median of $63,790.

A key advantage of working in New Mexico is its below-average cost of living (93% of the national index). This means the $59,325 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $63,790 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in New Mexico is significant: foresters at the 10th percentile earn $39,060, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $94,860 — a $55,800 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 $70,169.

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

Forester Salary in New Mexico by Experience

In New Mexico, an entry-level forester earns around $40,920, while experienced professionals earn up to $88,350 per year. The cost of living index in New Mexico is 93% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$40,920
$-3,080 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$60,450
$-4,550 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$88,350
$-6,650 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in New Mexico

Percentile NM Salary
10th Percentile $39,060
25th Percentile $47,430
Median (50th) $59,325
75th Percentile $76,260
90th Percentile $94,860

Forester Salary by City in New Mexico

The largest employment areas for foresters 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 Forester in New Mexico

Education

Most forester positions require a bachelor's degree. New Mexico has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Forest ManagementGIS/GPSTimber CruisingEcologyFire ManagementEnvironmental Law

Job Outlook in New Mexico

Nationally, forester 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: Forester Salary in New Mexico

How much does a Forester make in New Mexico? ▼
The median forester salary in New Mexico is $59,325 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $63,790. Salaries range from $39,060 (10th percentile) to $94,860 (90th percentile).
How much does a Forester make per hour in New Mexico? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $59,325, a forester in New Mexico earns approximately $29 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Mexico a good state for foresters? ▼
New Mexico ranks #28 out of 50 states for forester pay. The cost of living index is 93% of the national average. Entry-level foresters earn $40,920, while senior professionals earn $88,350.
How does New Mexico compare to other states for forester salary? ▼
The highest paying state for foresters is Hawaii at $108,443. New Mexico's median of $59,325 ranks #28 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Idaho ($59,963) and Georgia ($59,325).
What is the entry-level forester salary in New Mexico? ▼
An entry-level forester in New Mexico earns approximately $40,920 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $60,450. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $88,350.
What city in New Mexico pays foresters the most? ▼
Santa Fe is the highest paying city in New Mexico for foresters, with a median salary of $70,169. Other cities include Albuquerque and Las Cruces.