Astronomers

Astronomers had median annual earnings of $127,930 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Salaries ranged from less than $56,500 to $183,500 or more annually. The average salary for astronomers employed by federal, state, and local government agencies was $158,530. In 2024, NASA astronomers earned an average salary of $92,000, according to GlassDoor.

In May 2023, college space, atmospheric, earth, and marine sciences teachers earned salaries that ranged from $52,430 to $195,940 or more, according to the DOL. In educational institutions, salaries are normally regulated by the salary schedule prevailing in that particular institution. As the astronomer advances to higher level teaching positions, his or her salary increases significantly.

Opportunities also exist in private industry for well-trained and experienced astronomers, who often find their services in demand as consultants. Fees for this type of work may run as high as $200 to $400 per day in some of the more specialized fields of astronomy.

Depending on their employers, most astronomers enjoy a full complement of benefits, including vacation and sick time as well as holidays and medical and dental insurance.