Family and Consumer Scientists

Earnings of family and consumer scientists vary a great deal, depending on their experience, education, and area of work. Those in entry-level positions, such as salespeople and child-care workers, may have annual earnings of well below $20,000. But teachers and those in upper-level sales and marketing jobs can earn considerably more. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the May 2023 median annual salary for elementary school teachers was $63,680; the lowest 10 percent earned $46,960 or less and the top 10 percent earned $104,440 or more per year. Secondary school teachers earned $48,040 to $106,380 or more; the median salary was $65,220 in May 2023. Family and consumer sciences teachers in postsecondary institutions had median annual earnings of $78,410. Salaries ranged from less than $48,410 for the lowest paid 10 percent to $146,020 or more for the highest paid 10 percent per year. Food scientists earned an average of $82,090 per year.

Benefits such as health insurance, vacation, and sick leave vary by employer. Family and consumer scientists who become teachers enjoy the usual fringe benefits of the profession, including paid sick leave, group insurance, and retirement plans, as well as having two to three months free each year for travel, further study, or other professional enrichment.