The average salary for a marine biologist in Florida is $57,000 per year. Entry-level marine biologists earn around $45,000, while experienced professionals can earn over $80,000 depending on experience, employer, and specialization. Salaries are higher in government and research institutions compared to tourism or education sectors.
Marine Biologist Careers in Florida
Marine biologists in Florida study oceans, coasts, and marine wildlife, often in roles tied to conservation, research, and environmental monitoring. Florida’s long coastline and diverse marine ecosystems make it a major employment hub for marine science professionals. Cities like Miami, Tampa, and Jacksonville house research centers, aquariums, and government agencies that employ hundreds of marine biologists.
Florida’s marine biologist job market is supported by both public and private sectors. Agencies like the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) employ marine scientists for field research, policy development, and data reporting. Private environmental firms and universities also offer competitive salaries, especially for experienced researchers.
What Marine Biologists Do
Marine biologists collect data, conduct research, and develop conservation plans to protect marine life. Responsibilities vary by job type, but commonly include:
- Conducting field surveys
- Analyzing water samples
- Tagging and tracking marine animals
- Writing scientific reports
- Teaching or public outreach
In Florida, marine biologists often focus on coral reefs, sea turtle nesting, and estuary conservation. Roles exist in academic research, nonprofit organizations, and environmental consulting.
Average Marine Biologist Salary in Florida (Updated 2025 Data)
The average marine biologist salary in Florida is $57,000 annually, according to 2025 updated salary data. Entry-level professionals earn around $45,000, while senior-level employees may earn over $80,000, depending on their employer and specialization.
Marine Biologist Salary in Florida
| Source | Entry-Level Salary | Average Salary | Senior-Level Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indeed | – | $24.22/hr | – | $24.22/hr |
| PayScale | $52,426 (early career) | $46,500 | $52,414 (mid-career) | – |
| Salary.com | – | $66,424–$90,822 | – | – |
| ZipRecruiter | $66,810 | $31,091 | – | $14.95–$32.12/hr |
| OptimCareers | $57,138 | $81,500 | $99,034 | – |
Note: Salary figures are based on various roles, experience levels, and data reporting sources. Numbers are reported in USD.
Salary by Location in Florida
Marine biologist salaries in Florida vary by city, with higher earnings reported in urban coastal areas like Miami, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale.
- Miami: Government research and ocean institutes push average earnings to $60,000–$75,000.
- Tampa: Mid-range salaries between $50,000–$65,000, depending on role.
- Jacksonville: Entry-level salaries near $45,000, with slower wage growth.
Jobs located near marine research institutions typically pay more than roles in tourism-focused regions like the Keys.
Factors That Affect Salary
Education, experience, employer type, and field specialization significantly influence how much marine biologists earn in Florida.
Key factors:
- Education level: Bachelor’s holders earn less than those with master’s or PhDs.
- Sector: Government and consulting firms offer higher wages than nonprofits or aquariums.
- Experience: Marine biologists with 5+ years of fieldwork can earn over $70,000.
- Specialization: Fields like marine toxicology or deep-sea biology command higher pay.
For example, a senior marine biologist with a PhD working for NOAA could earn over $90,000 annually.
Job Outlook for Marine Biologists in Florida
Demand for marine biologists in Florida is projected to grow by 5 – 12% over the next 5 years. Climate change, coastal development, and environmental degradation increase the need for skilled marine scientists.
Florida’s unique ecosystems—such as coral reefs, mangroves, and the Everglades—require active protection. This drives funding to agencies and programs employing marine biologists. Research grants and partnerships with universities further expand career options.
How to Become a Marine Biologist in Florida
To become a marine biologist in Florida, earn a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, biology, or oceanography, then gain experience through internships or research assistant roles. Common education paths include:
- Bachelor’s Degree in marine biology (e.g., University of Miami, Florida State University)
- Internships with marine labs or fieldwork organizations
- Graduate degrees for advanced research or academic roles
Certification in scuba diving, geographic information systems (GIS), or laboratory analysis can improve job prospects.
Popular Questions
Below are common questions we get asked about this topic.
What types of employers pay the most for marine biologists in Florida?
Private consulting firms, government agencies, and universities offer the highest salaries, with senior-level roles exceeding $90,000 per year.
Do marine biologists in Florida typically receive overtime or bonuses?
Some marine biologists earn overtime or hazard pay, especially in government or contract-based fieldwork roles. Academic positions rarely include extra pay.
How does the cost of living in Florida impact marine biologist salaries?
Florida’s moderate cost of living keeps salaries competitive, but housing and transport costs in cities like Miami require higher pay for similar quality of life.
What are the salary growth prospects for marine biologists in Florida over the next 5 years?
Marine biologist salaries in Florida are expected to grow by 5–12%, fueled by environmental concerns and job expansion in conservation and climate science.
Final Insights
Marine biologists in Florida earn between $45,000 and $99,000 depending on experience, education, and location. The average salary is $57,000, with the best opportunities in government, research, and environmental consulting sectors. With rising demand for ocean science expertise, especially around Florida’s changing coastline, salaries are projected to increase steadily through 2030.
