Epidemiologist Salary
by City (2026)
Study the distribution and determinants of health conditions in populations. National median: $90K/year. See how your city compares.
Epidemiologist salary by city
Sorted by median salaryCOL-adjusted: where does your salary go furthest?
A $90K Epidemiologist salary in Houston (COL 91, no tax) has significantly more purchasing power than the same salary in San Francisco (COL 224, 9.3% state tax). Use our calculator to see the real numbers.
Try COL Calculator βEpidemiologist Salary Guide (2026)
The national median salary for a Epidemiologist is $90,000 per year. Entry-level positions typically start at $68,000, while experienced professionals in the top 25% earn $118,000 or more. The highest-paid 10% of Epidemiologists nationally earn $152,000+.
Education and requirements
Master's or PhD in Epidemiology or Public Health. This role is 35% remote-eligible nationally, which significantly expands the geographic job market for workers in lower cost-of-living cities.
Salary growth outlook
Epidemiologist compensation is growing at 4.5% annually, well above the national average wage growth rate.
Epidemiologist salary FAQ
How much does a Epidemiologist make?
The median Epidemiologist salary in the US is $90,000 per year β about $43/hour. Most earn between $68,000 (25th percentile) and $118,000 (75th percentile).
What is the starting salary for a Epidemiologist?
Entry-level Epidemiologist positions typically start around $68,000 per year. Pay rises with experience, specialization, and location.
How much do the highest-paid Epidemiologists earn?
The top 10% of Epidemiologists earn $152,000 or more per year β usually senior, lead, or specialized professionals in high-cost or high-demand markets.
Which city pays Epidemiologists the most?
San Francisco has the highest median Epidemiologist salary at $131K among the cities we track. But high-cost metros like San Francisco and New York often have lower real purchasing power once cost of living and taxes are factored in.
Are Epidemiologist salaries going up?
Yes β Epidemiologist pay is growing about 4.5% year over year, above the US average wage-growth rate.