Political Scientists Salary in the United States
Median pay, percentile range, and top US metros — official BLS data.
The median salary for Political Scientists in the United States is $142,080 per year — about $68 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Half of all workers in this occupation earn between $114,030 and $174,180 a year.
Salary range
Top US metros for Political Scientists
| Metro | Local salary |
|---|---|
| Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV | $156,730 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | $153,960 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH | $133,930 |
| Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ | $114,320 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN | $103,780 |
| Ann Arbor, MI | $86,290 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | $79,990 |
Frequently asked questions
How much do Political Scientists make in the US?
The median salary is $142,080 per year (about $68 per hour), according to BLS data. The middle 50% of workers earn between $114,030 and $174,180 a year.
How much do Political Scientists make per hour?
About $68 per hour, based on the median annual salary of $142,080 for full-time work (2,080 hours per year).
What education do you need to work as Political Scientists?
Typical entry-level education: Master'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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