Science & Research Wisconsin (WI) Rank #31 of 50

Geologist Salary in Wisconsin

The median geologist salary in Wisconsin is $76,986 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $83,680.

Median Salary
$76,986
vs National
$-6,694
State Rank
#31 of 50
Cost of Living
92%

Geologist Salary Overview in Wisconsin (2026)

Wisconsin ranks #31 out of 50 states for geologist compensation. Geologist salaries in Wisconsin are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $76,986 per year, geologists in Wisconsin earn $6,694 less than the national median of $83,680.

A key advantage of working in Wisconsin is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $76,986 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $83,680 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Wisconsin is significant: geologists at the 10th percentile earn $46,920, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $136,160 — a $89,240 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Wisconsin for this role is Madison, where the median reaches $83,680.

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 Wisconsin by Experience

In Wisconsin, an entry-level geologist earns around $49,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $128,800 per year. The cost of living index in Wisconsin is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$49,680
$-4,320 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$78,200
$-6,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$128,800
$-11,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Wisconsin

Percentile WI Salary
10th Percentile $46,920
25th Percentile $57,960
Median (50th) $76,986
75th Percentile $103,040
90th Percentile $136,160

Geologist Salary by City in Wisconsin

The largest employment areas for geologists in Wisconsin include Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and Kenosha. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Geologist in Wisconsin

Education

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

Key Skills

Field GeologyGISRock AnalysisStratigraphyEnvironmental AssessmentTechnical Writing

Job Outlook in Wisconsin

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

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Data shows Geologists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $51,814 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Geologist Salary in Wisconsin

How much does a Geologist make in Wisconsin? ▼
The median geologist salary in Wisconsin is $76,986 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $83,680. Salaries range from $46,920 (10th percentile) to $136,160 (90th percentile).
How much does a Geologist make per hour in Wisconsin? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $76,986, a geologist in Wisconsin earns approximately $37 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Wisconsin a good state for geologists? ▼
Wisconsin ranks #31 out of 50 states for geologist pay. The cost of living index is 92% of the national average. Entry-level geologists earn $49,680, while senior professionals earn $128,800.
How does Wisconsin compare to other states for geologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for geologists is Hawaii at $142,256. Wisconsin's median of $76,986 ranks #31 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include North Carolina ($76,986) and Texas ($76,986).
What is the entry-level geologist salary in Wisconsin? ▼
An entry-level geologist in Wisconsin earns approximately $49,680 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $78,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $128,800.
What city in Wisconsin pays geologists the most? ▼
Madison is the highest paying city in Wisconsin for geologists, with a median salary of $83,680. Other cities include Milwaukee and Green Bay.