Agriculture & Environment Alabama (AL) Rank #44 of 50

Zoologist Salary in Alabama

The median zoologist salary in Alabama is $59,360 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $68,230.

Median Salary
$59,360
vs National
$-8,870
State Rank
#44 of 50
Cost of Living
87%

Zoologist Salary Overview in Alabama (2026)

Alabama ranks #44 out of 50 states for zoologist compensation. Zoologist salaries in Alabama are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $59,360 per year, zoologists in Alabama earn $8,870 less than the national median of $68,230.

A key advantage of working in Alabama is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $59,360 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $68,230 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Alabama is significant: zoologists at the 10th percentile earn $36,540, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $97,440 — a $60,900 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Alabama for this role is Huntsville, where the median reaches $62,772.

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for zoologists across the country.

Zoologist Salary in Alabama by Experience

In Alabama, an entry-level zoologist earns around $39,150, while experienced professionals earn up to $91,350 per year. The cost of living index in Alabama is 87% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$39,150
$-5,850 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$60,900
$-9,100 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$91,350
$-13,650 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Alabama

Percentile AL Salary
10th Percentile $36,540
25th Percentile $46,980
Median (50th) $59,360
75th Percentile $78,300
90th Percentile $97,440

Zoologist Salary by City in Alabama

The largest employment areas for zoologists in Alabama include Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, and Mobile. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Zoologist in Alabama

Education

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

Key Skills

Wildlife BiologyField ResearchData AnalysisGISScientific WritingConservation

Job Outlook in Alabama

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Alabama's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows Zoologists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,990 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Zoologist Salary in Alabama

How much does a Zoologist make in Alabama? ▼
The median zoologist salary in Alabama is $59,360 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $68,230. Salaries range from $36,540 (10th percentile) to $97,440 (90th percentile).
How much does a Zoologist make per hour in Alabama? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $59,360, a zoologist in Alabama earns approximately $29 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Alabama a good state for zoologists? ▼
Alabama ranks #44 out of 50 states for zoologist pay. The cost of living index is 87% of the national average. Entry-level zoologists earn $39,150, while senior professionals earn $91,350.
How does Alabama compare to other states for zoologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for zoologists is Hawaii at $115,991. Alabama's median of $59,360 ranks #44 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Missouri ($60,042) and South Dakota ($60,042).
What is the entry-level zoologist salary in Alabama? ▼
An entry-level zoologist in Alabama earns approximately $39,150 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $60,900. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $91,350.
What city in Alabama pays zoologists the most? ▼
Huntsville is the highest paying city in Alabama for zoologists, with a median salary of $62,772. Other cities include Birmingham and Montgomery.