Science & Research Maryland (MD) Rank #9 of 50

Geologist Salary in Maryland

The median geologist salary in Maryland is $92,048 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $83,680.

Median Salary
$92,048
vs National
+$8,368
State Rank
#9 of 50
Cost of Living
110%

Geologist Salary Overview in Maryland (2026)

Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for geologist compensation. This places Maryland in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for geologists seeking high pay. At $92,048 per year, geologists in Maryland earn $8,368 more than the national median of $83,680.

It's worth noting that Maryland's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $92,048 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $83,680.

The salary spread in Maryland is significant: geologists at the 10th percentile earn $56,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $162,800 — a $106,700 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Maryland for this role is Silver Spring, where the median reaches $102,090.

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 Maryland by Experience

In Maryland, an entry-level geologist earns around $59,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $154,000 per year. The cost of living index in Maryland is 110% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$59,400
+$5,400 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$93,500
+$8,500 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$154,000
+$14,000 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Maryland

Percentile MD Salary
10th Percentile $56,100
25th Percentile $69,300
Median (50th) $92,048
75th Percentile $123,200
90th Percentile $162,800

Geologist Salary by City in Maryland

The largest employment areas for geologists in Maryland include Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, and Germantown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Geologist in Maryland

Education

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

Key Skills

Field GeologyGISRock AnalysisStratigraphyEnvironmental AssessmentTechnical Writing

Job Outlook in Maryland

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Geologist Salary in Maryland

How much does a Geologist make in Maryland? ▼
The median geologist salary in Maryland is $92,048 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $83,680. Salaries range from $56,100 (10th percentile) to $162,800 (90th percentile).
How much does a Geologist make per hour in Maryland? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $92,048, a geologist in Maryland earns approximately $44 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Maryland a good state for geologists? ▼
Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for geologist pay. The cost of living index is 110% of the national average. Entry-level geologists earn $59,400, while senior professionals earn $154,000.
How does Maryland compare to other states for geologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for geologists is Hawaii at $142,256. Maryland's median of $92,048 ranks #9 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Washington ($96,232) and Connecticut ($93,722).
What is the entry-level geologist salary in Maryland? ▼
An entry-level geologist in Maryland earns approximately $59,400 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $93,500. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $154,000.
What city in Maryland pays geologists the most? ▼
Silver Spring is the highest paying city in Maryland for geologists, with a median salary of $102,090. Other cities include Baltimore and Columbia.