Agriculture & Environment Wisconsin (WI) Rank #31 of 50

Zoologist Salary in Wisconsin

The median zoologist salary in Wisconsin is $62,772 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $68,230.

Median Salary
$62,772
vs National
$-5,458
State Rank
#31 of 50
Cost of Living
92%

Zoologist Salary Overview in Wisconsin (2026)

Wisconsin ranks #31 out of 50 states for zoologist compensation. Zoologist salaries in Wisconsin are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $62,772 per year, zoologists in Wisconsin earn $5,458 less than the national median of $68,230.

A key advantage of working in Wisconsin is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $62,772 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $68,230 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Wisconsin is significant: zoologists at the 10th percentile earn $38,640, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $103,040 — a $64,400 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Wisconsin for this role is Madison, where the median reaches $68,230.

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 Wisconsin by Experience

In Wisconsin, an entry-level zoologist earns around $41,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,600 per year. The cost of living index in Wisconsin is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$41,400
$-3,600 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$64,400
$-5,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$96,600
$-8,400 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Wisconsin

Percentile WI Salary
10th Percentile $38,640
25th Percentile $49,680
Median (50th) $62,772
75th Percentile $82,800
90th Percentile $103,040

Zoologist Salary by City in Wisconsin

The largest employment areas for zoologists in Wisconsin include Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and Kenosha. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Zoologist in Wisconsin

Education

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

Key Skills

Wildlife BiologyField ResearchData AnalysisGISScientific WritingConservation

Job Outlook in Wisconsin

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Wisconsin's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Zoologists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $33,828 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Zoologist Salary in Wisconsin

How much does a Zoologist make in Wisconsin? ▼
The median zoologist salary in Wisconsin is $62,772 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $68,230. Salaries range from $38,640 (10th percentile) to $103,040 (90th percentile).
How much does a Zoologist make per hour in Wisconsin? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $62,772, a zoologist in Wisconsin earns approximately $30 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Wisconsin a good state for zoologists? ▼
Wisconsin ranks #31 out of 50 states for zoologist pay. The cost of living index is 92% of the national average. Entry-level zoologists earn $41,400, while senior professionals earn $96,600.
How does Wisconsin compare to other states for zoologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for zoologists is Hawaii at $115,991. Wisconsin's median of $62,772 ranks #31 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include North Carolina ($62,772) and Texas ($62,772).
What is the entry-level zoologist salary in Wisconsin? ▼
An entry-level zoologist in Wisconsin earns approximately $41,400 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $64,400. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $96,600.
What city in Wisconsin pays zoologists the most? ▼
Madison is the highest paying city in Wisconsin for zoologists, with a median salary of $68,230. Other cities include Milwaukee and Green Bay.