Marine biology is a captivating field, drawing enthusiasts keen to explore marine ecosystems, understand the biology of marine organisms, and contribute to environmental conservation. Florida, with its extensive coastline and diverse marine environments, is a hub for marine biologists.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the marine biologists’ salaries in Florida as of July 28, 2025 compare them with those in other key locations like Miami, Hawaii and California, and highlight where marine biologists earn the most within Florida.
When looking for a job as a marine biologist in Florida, potential applicants can obtain a range of salary information from trustworthy job platforms, each with insights targeted to distinct professional levels and experiences. For example, Indeed says that entry-level marine biologists in Florida may expect to earn between $19 and $24 per hour, providing a realistic perspective for those just beginning out in the industry. In comparison, ZipRecruiter reports that annual salaries range from $21,000 to $43,000, catering to both rookie and relatively experienced professionals.
Educational Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree:
- Field: Degrees in marine biology, biology, zoology, ecology, or environmental science are commonly pursued.
- Coursework: Should include marine science, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
- Master’s Degree:
- For advanced research positions, project management, or specialized scientific roles, a master’s degree in marine biology or a related field is often required.
- Ph.D.:
- Necessary for those aiming to lead independent research or pursue academic careers at universities.
Skills and Experience
- Field Experience: Practical experience through internships or volunteer positions with aquariums, research labs, or conservation organizations is highly valuable.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in data analysis software, statistical tools, and sometimes Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
- Scuba Certification: For roles that require underwater research, a professional scuba diving certification might be needed.
Certifications and Licenses
- Depending on the job, additional certifications such as boating licenses or specific safety training relevant to marine environments might be required.
What Does a Marine Biologist in Florida Earn?
The salary of a marine biologist can vary widely based on factors such as educational background, years of experience, and the specific nature of their work. In Florida, marine biologists’ salaries are competitive, reflecting the state’s reliance on its marine environments for tourism and research opportunities.
Monthly and Annual Insights
To provide a clearer table, let’s break down the earnings of a marine biologist in Florida every month as of July 28, 2025
Marine Biologist Average Salary in Florida
| Experience Level | Monthly Average Salary | Annual Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $3,300 | $39,600 |
| Mid-Career | $4,500 | $54,000 |
| Experienced | $5,750 | $69,000 |
These figures are estimates based on data from various salary aggregation sources and may differ depending on the specific role and institution.
Comparing Florida with Hawaii, California, and Miami
Marine biologists’ salaries in Florida are quite competitive when compared with other top locations such as Miami, Hawaii and California. Here’s how they stack up as of July 28, 2025:
| Location | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Daily Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | $54,000 | $4,500 | $1,038 | $208 |
| California | $60,000 | $5,000 | $1,154 | $231 |
| Hawaii | $56,400 | $4,700 | $1,084 | $217 |
| Miami | $55,000 | $4,583 | $1,058 | $212 |
Notes:
- The daily pay is calculated based on a typical workday, assuming 5 workdays per week.
- These figures are based on average salaries and might vary depending on the specific employer, experience, and job responsibilities.
Highest Paying Positions in Florida
Within Florida, certain positions tend to offer higher salaries, often due to specialized skills, leadership roles, or working in privately funded research entities. Positions such as Senior Marine Biologist or Marine Research Director can fetch significantly higher salaries, sometimes exceeding the earlier average figures.
Conclusion
In Florida, becoming a marine biologist can be a financially beneficial career choice, particularly as one advances through the ranks and obtains more expertise. For those who are concerned about marine life and conservation, the state not only offers excellent compensation but also a rich environment conducive to practical marine research, which may be enormously fulfilling.
