Museum Curator Salary in Hawaii
The median museum curator salary in Hawaii is $102,187 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $60,110.
Museum Curator Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for museum curator compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for museum curators seeking high pay. At $102,187 per year, museum curators in Hawaii earn $42,077 more than the national median of $60,110.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $102,187 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $60,110.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: museum curators at the 10th percentile earn $59,500, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $166,600 — a $107,100 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $105,193.
Nationally, museum curator employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Hawaii and beyond.
Museum Curator Salary in Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level museum curator earns around $64,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $156,400 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $59,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,800 |
| Median (50th) | $102,187 |
| 75th Percentile | $132,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $166,600 |
Museum Curator Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for museum curators in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Museum Curator in Hawaii
Education
Most museum curator positions require a master's degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, museum curator employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Museum Curators who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $54,213 over your career trajectory.
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