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Forensic Experts

Earnings

Earnings for forensic experts vary by employer, geographic location, and educational and skill levels. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the median salary for forensic science technicians was $64,940 in May 2023. The lowest paid 10 percent earned $41,410 annually, and the highest paid 10 percent earned $107,490 or more annually. Fifty percent of forensic science technicians earned between $50,480 and $84,720. Those working for state government agencies had mean annual earnings of $69,540, while those who were employed by local agencies earned $73,860.

Forensic scientists earned average salaries of $57,486 in 2024, according to PayScale.com. Earnings ranged from $41,000 to $87,000 or more.

Benefits vary but usually include paid holidays and vacations, and health insurance. Forensic experts who work as consultants are typically paid by the hour or receive a flat fee based on the work assignment. They must provide their own benefits.

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