Zoologist Salary in Hawaii
The median zoologist salary in Hawaii is $115,991 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $68,230.
Zoologist Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for zoologist compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for zoologists seeking high pay. At $115,991 per year, zoologists in Hawaii earn $47,761 more than the national median of $68,230.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $115,991 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $68,230.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: zoologists at the 10th percentile earn $71,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $190,400 — a $119,000 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 $119,403.
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 Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level zoologist earns around $76,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $178,500 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 | $71,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,800 |
| Median (50th) | $115,991 |
| 75th Percentile | $153,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $190,400 |
Zoologist Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for zoologists 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 Zoologist in Hawaii
Education
Most zoologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Zoologists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $62,509 over your career trajectory.
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