Zoologist Salary in Independence, MO: $57,996 (2026)

Zoologist Pay in Independence: What to Expect (2026)

Independence offers a median zoologist salary of $57,996, which is $2,046 below the Missouri state average of $60,042. Compared to the national median of $68,230, Independence pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Independence's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 85% of the national average. This means the $57,996 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $68,231 in an average-cost city. This makes Independence an attractive option for zoologists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for zoologists in Independence spans from $35,700 at the 10th percentile to $95,200 at the 90th percentile — a $59,500 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $38,250, while senior zoologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $89,250. With a population of 123,011, Independence is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.

Zoologist Salary in Independence by Experience

In Independence, an entry-level zoologist earns around $38,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,250 per year. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$38,250

$-6,750 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$59,500

$-10,500 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$89,250

$-15,750 vs national

Percentile	Independence	MO State	National
10th Percentile	$35,700	$36,960	$42,000
25th Percentile	$45,900	$47,520	$54,000
Median (50th)	$57,996	$60,042	$68,230
75th Percentile	$76,500	$79,200	$90,000
90th Percentile	$95,200	$98,560	$112,000

Percentile

Independence

10th Percentile

$35,700

25th Percentile

$45,900

Median (50th)

$57,996

75th Percentile

$76,500

90th Percentile

$95,200

How to Become a Zoologist in Independence

Education

Most zoologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Independence and the surrounding Missouri area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Wildlife BiologyField ResearchData AnalysisGISScientific WritingConservation

Job Outlook

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Independence may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Zoologist Salary in Independence

How much does a Zoologist make in Independence, MO? ▼

The median zoologist salary in Independence, Missouri is $57,996 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $68,230. Salaries range from $35,700 (10th percentile) to $95,200 (90th percentile).

How much does a Zoologist make per hour in Independence? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $57,996, a zoologist in Independence earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Independence compare to the Missouri state average for zoologist pay? ▼

Independence's median zoologist salary of $57,996 is 3.4% below the Missouri state average of $60,042. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Independence, MO? ▼

Independence has a cost of living index of 85% compared to the national average. This means a zoologist salary of $57,996 in Independence has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a zoologist in Independence? ▼

Most zoologist positions in Independence require a bachelor's degree. Key skills include Wildlife Biology, Field Research, Data Analysis, GIS. The job market is projected to grow 3% nationally over the next decade.

Zoologist Salary in Independence, Missouri