How Much Do Meteorologists Make?

If you've ever been to a sporting event or outdoor party that was rained out, or had to cancel a ski weekend because of warm temperatures, you may have shaken your fist in the general direction of your local meteorologist. Many people seem to blame meteorologists for weather that differs from their predictions. While it's true that weather forecasts are never going to be 100 percent accurate - who among us can predict the future? - it's also true that in recent years the science of meteorology has made leaps and bounds, and our weather forecasting is only getting more precise. What to a layperson might seem like guesswork is actually a complex science that requires some fairly sophisticated equipment. It's a high-frustration field requiring long hours, but the high visibility of a TV meteorologist keeps interest in meteorologist careers pretty high, and that interest raises questions about meteorologist salary. Anyone considering meteorologist careers want to know, "how much do meteorologists make?"

Meteorologist Salary Data

"How much do meteorologists make?" might seem like a straightforward question, but just like that cold front moving in off of the Atlantic, meteorologist salary data is full of subtle variations that can change course dramatically. For example, the annual salary of a meteorologist varies hugely from place to place. The Meteorologist Salaries by City chart shows that the average meteorologist salary in Chicago is currently much higher than the average salaries of a meteorologist in New York and other major cities; just by living up to its nickname, the Windy City has become a great place to become a career meteorologist.

Say "meteorologist" and most people will probably think of their friendly TV weatherperson; behind-the-scenes meteorology doesn't get much of the credit. Well-spoken, telegenic meteorologists might want to consider forging their meteorologist careers in broadcast journalism; measuring meteorologist salaries using the Meteorologist Salary by Industry chart shows that it's one of the more lucrative industries (research Broadcast Journalist Salaries for more on the subject). While meteorologist careers don't necessarily require a degree, education can play a big part in answering the question of how much meteorologists make. The Meteorologist Salary by Degree chart shows that getting an advanced degree such as a master's can cause the annual salary of a meteorologist to rise faster than the atmospheric pressure before a beautiful weekend.

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