Science & Research Kansas (KS) Rank #45 of 50

Geologist Salary in Kansas

The median geologist salary in Kansas is $72,802 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $83,680.

Median Salary
$72,802
vs National
$-10,878
State Rank
#45 of 50
Cost of Living
87%

Geologist Salary Overview in Kansas (2026)

Kansas ranks #45 out of 50 states for geologist compensation. Geologist salaries in Kansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $72,802 per year, geologists in Kansas earn $10,878 less than the national median of $83,680.

A key advantage of working in Kansas is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $72,802 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $83,680 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Kansas is significant: geologists at the 10th percentile earn $44,370, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $128,760 — a $84,390 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Kansas for this role is Overland Park, where the median reaches $80,333.

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 Kansas by Experience

In Kansas, an entry-level geologist earns around $46,980, while experienced professionals earn up to $121,800 per year. The cost of living index in Kansas is 87% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$46,980
$-7,020 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$73,950
$-11,050 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$121,800
$-18,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Kansas

Percentile KS Salary
10th Percentile $44,370
25th Percentile $54,810
Median (50th) $72,802
75th Percentile $97,440
90th Percentile $128,760

Geologist Salary by City in Kansas

The largest employment areas for geologists in Kansas include Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, and Topeka. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Geologist in Kansas

Education

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

Key Skills

Field GeologyGISRock AnalysisStratigraphyEnvironmental AssessmentTechnical Writing

Job Outlook in Kansas

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Geologist Salary in Kansas

How much does a Geologist make in Kansas? ▼
The median geologist salary in Kansas is $72,802 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $83,680. Salaries range from $44,370 (10th percentile) to $128,760 (90th percentile).
How much does a Geologist make per hour in Kansas? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $72,802, a geologist in Kansas earns approximately $35 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Kansas a good state for geologists? ▼
Kansas ranks #45 out of 50 states for geologist pay. The cost of living index is 87% of the national average. Entry-level geologists earn $46,980, while senior professionals earn $121,800.
How does Kansas compare to other states for geologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for geologists is Hawaii at $142,256. Kansas's median of $72,802 ranks #45 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include South Dakota ($73,638) and Alabama ($72,802).
What is the entry-level geologist salary in Kansas? ▼
An entry-level geologist in Kansas earns approximately $46,980 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $73,950. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $121,800.
What city in Kansas pays geologists the most? ▼
Overland Park is the highest paying city in Kansas for geologists, with a median salary of $80,333. Other cities include Wichita and Kansas City.