SalariesForensic science technicians

Forensic science technicians Salary in the United States

Median pay, percentile range, and top US metros — official BLS data.

The median salary for Forensic science technicians in the United States is $72,060 per year — about $35 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Half of all workers in this occupation earn between $57,830 and $94,520 a year.

Median annual salary
$72,060
~$35/hr · ~$6,005/mo
Total US jobs
21K
Much faster than average
Education
Bachelor's degree
Growth: +13%

Salary range

10th %ile
$48,250
25th %ile
$57,830
Median
$72,060
75th %ile
$94,520
90th %ile
$117,250

Top US metros for Forensic science technicians

MetroLocal salary
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA$137,280
Akron, OH$106,330
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN$112,790
Toledo, OH$95,330
Topeka, KS$86,670
Lansing-East Lansing, MI$88,670
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA$105,320
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA$109,930
Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom, CA$101,780
New Haven, CT$98,250

Frequently asked questions

How much do Forensic science technicians make in the US?

The median salary is $72,060 per year (about $35 per hour), according to BLS data. The middle 50% of workers earn between $57,830 and $94,520 a year.

How much do Forensic science technicians make per hour?

About $35 per hour, based on the median annual salary of $72,060 for full-time work (2,080 hours per year).

What education do you need to work as Forensic science technicians?

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do these salary figures include bonuses or overtime?

No. BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics reflect base wages only — they exclude overtime pay, bonuses, and most benefits.

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Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. (May 2025 OEWS.)