How much does an Animal Scientist make in South Dakota?
An Animal Scientist working in South Dakota earns a median salary of $77,300 per year, or about $37.16 per hour. That is 12% above the national median of $68,940 for this occupation.
Within South Dakota, entry-level pay starts around $50,660 while the top 10% make $101,990 or more. The middle 50% of earners fall between $63,420 and $101,990 a year.
Animal Scientist salary range in South Dakota
| Pay level | Annual salary | Hourly rate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile (entry level) | $50,660 | $24.36 | |
| 25th percentile (early career) | $63,420 | $30.49 | |
| 50th percentile (median) | $77,300 | $37.16 | |
| 75th percentile (experienced) | $101,990 | $49.03 | |
| 90th percentile (top earners) | $101,990 | $49.03 |
How South Dakota compares
South Dakota ranks 8th out of 13 states and territories for Animal Scientist pay. The top 5 best-paying states:
| Rank | State | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Texas | $132,830 |
| 2 | Minnesota | $88,640 |
| 3 | Wisconsin | $84,310 |
| 4 | Washington | $83,160 |
| 5 | Kansas | $80,090 |
Animal Scientist salary in other states
Working as an Animal Scientist in South Dakota
Nationally, about 3,000 people work as Animal Scientists in the United States. A doctoral or professional degree (8 or more years of higher education) is required.
Considering a move? Compare South Dakota pay ($77,300) against the highest-paying state above, and weigh the difference against housing and everyday costs — a smaller paycheck in a cheaper state can stretch further.
Frequently asked questions
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← See the national Animal Scientist salary report