How Much Does a Weather Scientist Make? (2025)
A weather scientist studies atmospheric conditions by measuring properties like temperature and windspeed, using computer models and instruments to analyze data. They create forecasts, issue severe weather warnings, and communicate weather information to protect lives and property.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for weather scientists is expected to grow by 6% over the next decade from 2023 to 2033. Salary.com reports that the average yearly salary for weather scientists in the US is $135,800 for 2025.
Learn more about the salary trend for weather scientists and top-paying cities in the US, as well as some FAQs about the occupation.
What is the Average Weather Scientist’s Salary
As mentioned above, the average annual salary for weather scientists in the United States is $135,800 in 2025. As of August 1, 2025, the salary range for weather scientists in the US is between $112,875 and $166,367, with most earning $123,800 to $151,800 per year.
2025 Average Salary for Weather Scientists: $135,800 per year ($65 per hour)
A weather scientist’s average monthly salary is $11,317, while the average weekly pay is $2,612. Meanwhile, the salary of an weather scientist per hour is $65 according to the report.
| Percentile | By Hour | By Week | By Month | By Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54 | $2,171 | $9,406 | $112,875 |
| 25th Percentile | $60 | $2,381 | $10,317 | $123,800 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $65 | $2,612 | $11,317 | $135,800 |
| 75th Percentile | $73 | $2,919 | $12,650 | $151,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $80 | $3,199 | $13,864 | $166,367 |
Weather Scientist Salaries State by State
Weather scientist salaries may vary across US states depending on key factors such as state minimum wage, occupation demand, location, and standards of living.
As shown in the table below, the three (3) states with the lowest average annual salary for weather scientists in the United States are Mississippi, West Virginia, and South Dakota with $121,100, $122,300, and $123,400 respectively.
Meanwhile, the three (3) states with the highest average annual salary for weather scientists are the District of Columbia, California, and New Jersey with $150,400, $149,800, and $147,200, respectively.
| States | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Alaska | $147,000 |
| Alabama | $124,800 |
| Arkansas | $122,700 |
| Arizona | $132,300 |
| California | $149,800 |
| Colorado | $138,600 |
| Connecticut | $145,100 |
| District of Columbia | $150,400 |
| Delaware | $137,500 |
| Florida | $128,500 |
| Georgia | $131,000 |
| Hawaii | $142,000 |
| Iowa | $130,000 |
| Idaho | $126,800 |
| Illinois | $138,400 |
| Indiana | $130,400 |
| Kansas | $129,300 |
| Kentucky | $127,800 |
| Louisiana | $129,100 |
| Massachusetts | $147,800 |
| Maryland | $140,000 |
| Maine | $132,400 |
| Michigan | $133,800 |
| Minnesota | $139,000 |
| Missouri | $129,000 |
| Mississippi | $121,100 |
| Montana | $128,200 |
| North Carolina | $129,100 |
| North Dakota | $134,200 |
| Nebraska | $128,000 |
| New Hampshire | $137,300 |
| New Jersey | $147,200 |
| New Mexico | $125,800 |
| Nevada | $134,400 |
| New York | $144,400 |
| Ohio | $132,200 |
| Oklahoma | $125,600 |
| Oregon | $137,900 |
| Pennsylvania | $135,200 |
| Rhode Island | $140,800 |
| South Carolina | $127,300 |
| South Dakota | $123,400 |
| Tennessee | $126,900 |
| Texas | $132,500 |
| Utah | $130,100 |
| Virginia | $136,800 |
| Vermont | $133,300 |
| Washington | $147,300 |
| Wisconsin | $133,600 |
| West Virginia | $122,300 |
| Wyoming | $130,300 |
What are the Best-Paying Cities for Weather Scientists?
Weather scientist salaries also vary by city due to the differences in standard of living, local demand for the occupation, and industry rates in metropolitan areas.
The table below shows that the labor industry in California is offering higher average annual salaries for weather scientists, specifically in cities like San Jose, San Francisco, and Oakland. Certain cities such as New York, Queens Village, and Paramus, also show signs of increased demand for weather scientist occupations:
| Cities | Average Pay |
|---|---|
| San Jose, California | $171,300 ($82 per hour) |
| San Francisco, California | $169,600 ($82 per hour) |
| Oakland, California | $165,900 ($80 per hour) |
| New York, New York | $157,400 ($76 per hour) |
| Queens Village, New York | $156,400 ($75 per hour) |
| Paramus, New Jersey | $155,300 ($75 per hour) |
How Does Experience Affect Weather Scientist Salaries?
Having more experience gives weather scientists an edge over their peers and plays an important role in increasing their salary.
Salary.com reports that entry-level weather scientists earn an average annual income of $129,531. Having 2 more years of experience can increase a weather scientist’s salary to $130,427.
After 2 to 4 years of experience, the salary for weather scientists could increase to about $131,860. Specialist and expert-level weather scientists can earn up to $134,009 and $137,472, respectively.
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Weather Scientist | $129,531 |
| Intermediate Level Weather Scientist | $130,427 |
| Senior Level Weather Scientist | $131,860 |
| Specialist Level Weather Scientist | $134,009 |
| Expert Level Weather Scientist | $137,472 |
How to Increase Salary as an Weather Scientist?
Weather scientists generally need a bachelor’s degree in meteorology or a related physical science, with strong skills in physics, mathematics, and computer programming to handle data analysis and weather modeling. To increase their salary, weather scientists can pursue the following advancements and skills:
Weather Scientist Advancements:
- Licenses and Certifications: Obtaining credentials like the Certified Consulting Meteorologist (CCM) or Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) from the American Meteorological Society (AMS) enhances credibility and job prospects.
Other valuable certifications include the National Weather Association Seal of Approval and Certified Professional Meteorologist (CPM). - Professional Growth: Experience and certifications enable weather scientists to specialize in areas such as broadcast, forensic, or research meteorology, climate science, and lead forecasting roles. Advancement within agencies like the National Weather Service often leads to higher pay.
- Additional Skills: Developing expertise in computer programming, GIS, weather data systems, and communications improves career opportunities and salary potential, especially in media or private sectors.
- Salary and Outlook: Median salaries range from about $112,875 to $166,367 annually, varying by experience, employer, and location. Entry-level positions start lower but can rise significantly with experience and promotions. Employment growth is projected to be faster than average over the next decade.
Weather Scientist Skills:
Gaining sought-after skills for a weather scientist is an effective way to earn a higher salary and unlock more career opportunities. The Real-time Job Posting Salary Data Report indicates that the most in-demand skills for weather scientists are data analysis software and spectroscopy, with 10.80% and 10.70%, respectively.
Also, essential skills such as spectroscopy and material science can increase the salary for weather scientists by 9.97% and 8.87%, respectively.
| Skill | Demand | Salary Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Spectroscopy | 10.70% | +9.97% |
| Material Science | 10.90% | +8.87% |
| Research Design | 10.30% | +8.32% |
| Statistical Analysis | 10.00% | +8.20% |
| Technical Writing | 10.00% | +8.02% |
| Data Analysis Software | 10.80% | +7.68% |
What are the FAQs About Weather Scientist Salaries?
Here are some common questions about the weather scientist salary:
What does a weather scientist do?
A weather scientist studies atmospheric conditions to understand and predict weather patterns. They analyze meteorological data using instruments and computer models to produce forecasts and warnings that inform and protect the public. Here are some of their key job responsibilities:
- Measure atmospheric properties like temperature, humidity, wind speed, and dew point.
- Collect and analyze data from satellites, radar, and weather stations.
- Develop and run computer models to forecast weather conditions.
- Produce and communicate accurate weather forecasts and warnings.
- Conduct research to improve weather prediction and understanding.
- Collaborate with agencies and educate the public on weather safety.
What educational background or degree is needed to become a weather scientist?
Weather scientists typically need to earn a bachelor’s degree in meteorology or any other related field of physical sciences. Moreover, if they aim to work in the research industry, weather scientists must at least possess a master’s or doctorate.
How long does it take to become a weather scientist?
To work as a weather scientist, one must at least finish a bachelor’s degree in meteorology or atmospheric science which takes four (4) years.
Are weather scientists in demand?
Yes. BLS reports that the job outlook for weather scientists from 2023 to 2033 is expected to grow by 6%, which is faster than the average occupational growth.
