Geographers
Salary, job outlook, AI risk & career information
Median Salary
$97,200
~$47/hr · ~$8,100/mo
US Jobs
2K
Decline
AI & Automation Risk
8/10
High Risk
AI & Automation Risk
High Risk 8/10
Geographers primarily perform digital knowledge work, including data analysis, GIS modeling, and report writing, all of which are highly susceptible to AI automation and enhancement. While some fieldwork exists, the core of the profession involves processing satellite imagery and census data—tasks where AI and machine learning are rapidly becoming more efficient than humans.
Salary by City — What You Actually Take Home
Real purchasing power = salary adjusted for cost of living. Higher = more money in your pocket.
| City | Local Salary | Cost of Living | Real Purchasing Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WVBEST VALUE | $117,960 | Above avg (109.5) | $107,684 |
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO | $109,550 | Above avg (105.8) | $103,576 |
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | $88,280 | Above avg (103.2) | $85,556 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, TX | $71,780 | Average (98.3) | $73,039 |
Cost of Living Index: 100 = US national average. Below 100 = cheaper. Above 100 = more expensive.
Education & Requirements
Education Required
Bachelor's degree
10-Year Growth
-3% (Decline)
Hourly Rate
~$47/hr
Monthly Income
~$8,100/mo
Related Careers
Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics OOH (2024)