Science & Research Arkansas (AR) Rank #48 of 50

Geologist Salary in Arkansas

The median geologist salary in Arkansas is $70,291 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $83,680.

Median Salary
$70,291
vs National
$-13,389
State Rank
#48 of 50
Cost of Living
84%

Geologist Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)

Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for geologist compensation. Geologist salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $70,291 per year, geologists in Arkansas earn $13,389 less than the national median of $83,680.

A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $70,291 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $83,680 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: geologists at the 10th percentile earn $42,840, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $124,320 — a $81,480 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $73,638.

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for geologists across the country.

Geologist Salary in Arkansas by Experience

In Arkansas, an entry-level geologist earns around $45,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $117,600 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$45,360
$-8,640 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$71,400
$-13,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$117,600
$-22,400 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Arkansas

Percentile AR Salary
10th Percentile $42,840
25th Percentile $52,920
Median (50th) $70,291
75th Percentile $94,080
90th Percentile $124,320

Geologist Salary by City in Arkansas

The largest employment areas for geologists in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Geologist in Arkansas

Education

Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Field GeologyGISRock AnalysisStratigraphyEnvironmental AssessmentTechnical Writing

Job Outlook in Arkansas

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Geologist Salary in Arkansas

How much does a Geologist make in Arkansas? ▼
The median geologist salary in Arkansas is $70,291 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $83,680. Salaries range from $42,840 (10th percentile) to $124,320 (90th percentile).
How much does a Geologist make per hour in Arkansas? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $70,291, a geologist in Arkansas earns approximately $34 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Arkansas a good state for geologists? ▼
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for geologist pay. The cost of living index is 84% of the national average. Entry-level geologists earn $45,360, while senior professionals earn $117,600.
How does Arkansas compare to other states for geologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for geologists is Hawaii at $142,256. Arkansas's median of $70,291 ranks #48 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Kentucky ($72,802) and Oklahoma ($71,965).
What is the entry-level geologist salary in Arkansas? ▼
An entry-level geologist in Arkansas earns approximately $45,360 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $71,400. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $117,600.
What city in Arkansas pays geologists the most? ▼
Fayetteville is the highest paying city in Arkansas for geologists, with a median salary of $73,638. Other cities include Little Rock and Fort Smith.