Zoologist Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median zoologist salary in Durham, NC is $64,819 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
Zoologist Pay in Durham: What to Expect (2026)
Durham offers a median zoologist salary of $64,819, which is $2,047 above the North Carolina state average of $62,772. Compared to the national median of $68,230, Durham pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Durham's cost of living is 95% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for zoologists in Durham spans from $39,900 at the 10th percentile to $106,400 at the 90th percentile — a $66,500 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $42,750, while senior zoologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $99,750. With a population of 283,506, Durham is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Zoologist Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level zoologist earns around $42,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $99,750 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $39,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,300 |
| Median (50th) | $64,819 |
| 75th Percentile | $85,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $106,400 |
Zoologist Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Zoologist in Durham
Education
Most zoologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Zoologist Jobs in Durham
Browse open zoologist positions in Durham, NC: