Zoologist Salary in New York City, NY: $127,590 (2026)

Zoologist Pay in New York City: What to Expect (2026)

New York City offers a median zoologist salary of $127,590, which is $44,349 above the New York state average of $83,241. Compared to the national median of $68,230, New York City pays above average for this role.

However, New York City's cost of living index is 187%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $127,590 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $68,230. Housing, transportation, and food costs in New York City should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.

The salary range for zoologists in New York City spans from $78,540 at the 10th percentile to $209,440 at the 90th percentile — a $130,900 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $84,150, while senior zoologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $196,350. As a major metro area with a population of 8,336,817, New York City typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.

Zoologist Salary in New York City by Experience

In New York City, an entry-level zoologist earns around $84,150, while experienced professionals earn up to $196,350 per year. The local cost of living index is 187% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$84,150

+$39,150 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$130,900

+$60,900 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$196,350

+$91,350 vs national

Percentile	New York City	NY State	National
10th Percentile	$78,540	$51,240	$42,000
25th Percentile	$100,980	$65,880	$54,000
Median (50th)	$127,590	$83,241	$68,230
75th Percentile	$168,300	$109,800	$90,000
90th Percentile	$209,440	$136,640	$112,000

Percentile

New York City

10th Percentile

$78,540

25th Percentile

$100,980

Median (50th)

$127,590

75th Percentile

$168,300

90th Percentile

$209,440

How to Become a Zoologist in New York City

Education

Most zoologist positions require a bachelor's degree. New York City and the surrounding New York 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 New York City may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Zoologist Salary in New York City

How much does a Zoologist make in New York City, NY? ▼

The median zoologist salary in New York City, New York is $127,590 per year, which is 87.0% above the national median of $68,230. Salaries range from $78,540 (10th percentile) to $209,440 (90th percentile).

How much does a Zoologist make per hour in New York City? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $127,590, a zoologist in New York City earns approximately $61 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does New York City compare to the New York state average for zoologist pay? ▼

New York City's median zoologist salary of $127,590 is 53.3% above the New York state average of $83,241. The local cost of living index is 187% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in New York City, NY? ▼

New York City has a cost of living index of 187% compared to the national average. This means a zoologist salary of $127,590 in New York City has less purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a zoologist in New York City? ▼

Most zoologist positions in New York City 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 New York City, New York