How much does a Political Scientist make in Michigan?
Political Scientists in Michigan take home a median of $86,290 annually — roughly $41.49 an hour — which runs 39% below the national median of $142,080.
Within Michigan, entry-level pay starts around $68,380 while the top 10% make $155,740 or more. The middle 50% of earners fall between $78,950 and $109,580 a year.
Political Scientist salary range in Michigan
| Pay level | Annual salary | Hourly rate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile (entry level) | $68,380 | $32.88 | |
| 25th percentile (early career) | $78,950 | $37.96 | |
| 50th percentile (median) | $86,290 | $41.49 | |
| 75th percentile (experienced) | $109,580 | $52.68 | |
| 90th percentile (top earners) | $155,740 | $74.88 |
How Michigan compares
Michigan ranks 12th out of 13 states and territories for Political Scientist pay. The top 5 best-paying states:
| Rank | State | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Maryland | $153,380 |
| 2 | District of Columbia | $152,530 |
| 3 | Washington | $147,060 |
| 4 | Pennsylvania | $140,020 |
| 5 | Massachusetts | $133,930 |
Political Scientist salary in other states
Working as a Political Scientist in Michigan
Nationally, about 6,000 people work as Political Scientists in the United States. A doctoral or professional degree (8 or more years of higher education) is required.
Considering a move? Compare Michigan pay ($86,290) 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 Political Scientist salary report