Geologist Salary in Rio Rancho, New Mexico
The median geologist salary in Rio Rancho, NM is $76,986 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 1.1% below the New Mexico state average.
Geologist Pay in Rio Rancho: What to Expect (2026)
Rio Rancho offers a median geologist salary of $76,986, which is $836 below the New Mexico state average of $77,822. Compared to the national median of $83,680, Rio Rancho pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Rio Rancho's cost of living is 92% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for geologists in Rio Rancho spans from $46,920 at the 10th percentile to $136,160 at the 90th percentile — a $89,240 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $49,680, while senior geologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $128,800. With a population of 104,046, Rio Rancho is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Geologist Salary in Rio Rancho by Experience
In Rio Rancho, an entry-level geologist earns around $49,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $128,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Rio Rancho, NM
| Percentile | Rio Rancho |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $46,920 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,960 |
| Median (50th) | $76,986 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,040 |
| 90th Percentile | $136,160 |
Geologist Salary in Other New Mexico Cities
How to Become a Geologist in Rio Rancho
Education
Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Rio Rancho and the surrounding New Mexico area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Rio Rancho may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Geologist Jobs in Rio Rancho
Browse open geologist positions in Rio Rancho, NM: