Science & Research Columbia, MD Pop. 104,681

Geologist Salary in Columbia, Maryland

The median geologist salary in Columbia, MD is $98,742 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 7.3% above the Maryland state average.

City Median
$98,742
vs State Avg
+$6,694
vs National
+$15,062
Cost of Living
118%

Geologist Salary in Columbia by Experience

In Columbia, an entry-level geologist earns around $63,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $165,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$63,720
+$9,720 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$100,300
+$15,300 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$165,200
+$25,200 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MD

Percentile Columbia
10th Percentile $60,180
25th Percentile $74,340
Median (50th) $98,742
75th Percentile $132,160
90th Percentile $174,640

Geologist Salary in Other Maryland Cities

Silver Spring, MD
$102,090
Pop. 81,015
Germantown, MD
$96,232
Pop. 90,676
Baltimore, MD
$90,374
Pop. 585,708
Waldorf, MD
$87,864
Pop. 77,000

How to Become a Geologist in Columbia

Education

Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Columbia and the surrounding Maryland 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 Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.