▼8%
$58,408
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$40k
MEDIAN
$58k
90%
$98k
The average salary for a Political Scientist is $58,408 in 2025
Base Salary
$40k - $98k
Bonus
$427 - $17k
Total Pay
$39k - $97k
Is Average Early-Career Political Scientist Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Political Scientists?
What Do Political Scientists Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Political Scientist
Medical
67%
Dental
33%
Vision
33%
None
33%
Gender Breakdown for Political Scientists
Female
50.0%
Male
50.0%
This data is based on 2 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Political Scientists
What is the highest pay for Political Scientists?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Political Scientist is $98k / year
What is the lowest pay for Political Scientists?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Political Scientist is $40k / year
How can Political Scientists increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Political Scientist is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Political Scientist that oversees more junior Political Scientists, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.