Agriculture & Environment Pennsylvania (PA) Rank #23 of 50

Zoologist Salary in Pennsylvania

The median zoologist salary in Pennsylvania is $65,501 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $68,230.

Median Salary
$65,501
vs National
$-2,729
State Rank
#23 of 50
Cost of Living
96%

Zoologist Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)

Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for zoologist compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for zoologist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $65,501 per year, zoologists in Pennsylvania earn $2,729 less than the national median of $68,230.

Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning zoologist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: zoologists at the 10th percentile earn $40,320, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $107,520 — a $67,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Pennsylvania for this role is Philadelphia, where the median reaches $69,595.

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 Pennsylvania by Experience

In Pennsylvania, an entry-level zoologist earns around $43,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $100,800 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$43,200
$-1,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$67,200
$-2,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$100,800
$-4,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania

Percentile PA Salary
10th Percentile $40,320
25th Percentile $51,840
Median (50th) $65,501
75th Percentile $86,400
90th Percentile $107,520

Zoologist Salary by City in Pennsylvania

The largest employment areas for zoologists in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Zoologist in Pennsylvania

Education

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

Key Skills

Wildlife BiologyField ResearchData AnalysisGISScientific WritingConservation

Job Outlook in Pennsylvania

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Pennsylvania'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 $35,299 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Zoologist Salary in Pennsylvania

How much does a Zoologist make in Pennsylvania? ▼
The median zoologist salary in Pennsylvania is $65,501 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $68,230. Salaries range from $40,320 (10th percentile) to $107,520 (90th percentile).
How much does a Zoologist make per hour in Pennsylvania? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $65,501, a zoologist in Pennsylvania earns approximately $31 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Pennsylvania a good state for zoologists? ▼
Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for zoologist pay. The cost of living index is 96% of the national average. Entry-level zoologists earn $43,200, while senior professionals earn $100,800.
How does Pennsylvania compare to other states for zoologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for zoologists is Hawaii at $115,991. Pennsylvania's median of $65,501 ranks #23 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Nevada ($66,183) and Utah ($66,183).
What is the entry-level zoologist salary in Pennsylvania? ▼
An entry-level zoologist in Pennsylvania earns approximately $43,200 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $67,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $100,800.
What city in Pennsylvania pays zoologists the most? ▼
Philadelphia is the highest paying city in Pennsylvania for zoologists, with a median salary of $69,595. Other cities include Pittsburgh and Allentown.