Geologist Salary in Pocatello, ID: $71,965 (2026)

Geologist Pay in Pocatello: What to Expect (2026)

Pocatello offers a median geologist salary of $71,965, which is $6,694 below the Idaho state average of $78,659. Compared to the national median of $83,680, Pocatello pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Pocatello's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 86% of the national average. This means the $71,965 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $83,680 in an average-cost city. This makes Pocatello an attractive option for geologists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for geologists in Pocatello spans from $43,860 at the 10th percentile to $127,280 at the 90th percentile — a $83,420 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $46,440, while senior geologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $120,400. Pocatello is a smaller market (pop. 56,548), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.

Geologist Salary in Pocatello by Experience

In Pocatello, an entry-level geologist earns around $46,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $120,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$46,440

$-7,560 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$73,100

$-11,900 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$120,400

$-19,600 vs national

Percentile	Pocatello	ID State	National
10th Percentile	$43,860	$47,940	$51,000
25th Percentile	$54,180	$59,220	$63,000
Median (50th)	$71,965	$78,659	$83,680
75th Percentile	$96,320	$105,280	$112,000
90th Percentile	$127,280	$139,120	$148,000

Percentile

Pocatello

10th Percentile

$43,860

25th Percentile

$54,180

Median (50th)

$71,965

75th Percentile

$96,320

90th Percentile

$127,280

How to Become a Geologist in Pocatello

Education

Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Pocatello and the surrounding Idaho area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Field GeologyGISRock AnalysisStratigraphyEnvironmental AssessmentTechnical Writing

Job Outlook

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Pocatello may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Geologist Salary in Pocatello

How much does a Geologist make in Pocatello, ID? ▼

The median geologist salary in Pocatello, Idaho is $71,965 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $83,680. Salaries range from $43,860 (10th percentile) to $127,280 (90th percentile).

How much does a Geologist make per hour in Pocatello? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $71,965, a geologist in Pocatello earns approximately $35 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Pocatello compare to the Idaho state average for geologist pay? ▼

Pocatello's median geologist salary of $71,965 is 8.5% below the Idaho state average of $78,659. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Pocatello, ID? ▼

Pocatello has a cost of living index of 86% compared to the national average. This means a geologist salary of $71,965 in Pocatello has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a geologist in Pocatello? ▼

Most geologist positions in Pocatello require a bachelor's degree. Key skills include Field Geology, GIS, Rock Analysis, Stratigraphy. The job market is projected to grow 5% nationally over the next decade.

Geologist Salary in Pocatello, Idaho