Agriculture & Environment Maryland (MD) Rank #9 of 50

Zoologist Salary in Maryland

The median zoologist salary in Maryland is $75,053 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $68,230.

Median Salary
$75,053
vs National
+$6,823
State Rank
#9 of 50
Cost of Living
110%

Zoologist Salary Overview in Maryland (2026)

Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for zoologist compensation. This places Maryland in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for zoologists seeking high pay. At $75,053 per year, zoologists in Maryland earn $6,823 more than the national median of $68,230.

It's worth noting that Maryland's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $75,053 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $68,230.

The salary spread in Maryland is significant: zoologists at the 10th percentile earn $46,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $123,200 — a $77,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Maryland for this role is Silver Spring, where the median reaches $83,241.

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 Maryland by Experience

In Maryland, an entry-level zoologist earns around $49,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $115,500 per year. The cost of living index in Maryland is 110% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$49,500
+$4,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$77,000
+$7,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$115,500
+$10,500 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Maryland

Percentile MD Salary
10th Percentile $46,200
25th Percentile $59,400
Median (50th) $75,053
75th Percentile $99,000
90th Percentile $123,200

Zoologist Salary by City in Maryland

The largest employment areas for zoologists in Maryland include Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, and Germantown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Zoologist in Maryland

Education

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

Key Skills

Wildlife BiologyField ResearchData AnalysisGISScientific WritingConservation

Job Outlook in Maryland

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Maryland'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 $40,447 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Zoologist Salary in Maryland

How much does a Zoologist make in Maryland? ▼
The median zoologist salary in Maryland is $75,053 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $68,230. Salaries range from $46,200 (10th percentile) to $123,200 (90th percentile).
How much does a Zoologist make per hour in Maryland? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $75,053, a zoologist in Maryland earns approximately $36 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Maryland a good state for zoologists? ▼
Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for zoologist pay. The cost of living index is 110% of the national average. Entry-level zoologists earn $49,500, while senior professionals earn $115,500.
How does Maryland compare to other states for zoologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for zoologists is Hawaii at $115,991. Maryland's median of $75,053 ranks #9 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Washington ($78,465) and Connecticut ($76,418).
What is the entry-level zoologist salary in Maryland? ▼
An entry-level zoologist in Maryland earns approximately $49,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $77,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $115,500.
What city in Maryland pays zoologists the most? ▼
Silver Spring is the highest paying city in Maryland for zoologists, with a median salary of $83,241. Other cities include Baltimore and Columbia.