Archaeology is a branch of anthropology that pertains to skeletal remains and relics from past human lives. Archaeologists recover, examine and preserve bones and artifacts to study the histories, cultures and living habits of ancient societies. Some work for museums, national parks or historical societies, ensuring these organizations comply with federal regulations on preserving relics. If you want to become an archaeologist, you'll need at least a master's degree in archaeology or anthropology. In return, expect to earn salaries averaging just over $65,000 annually.

Salary and Qualifications

Archaeologists earned average salaries of $66,130 per year as of May 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you were among the top 10 percent in earnings, you'd make over $102,770 annually. To become an archaeologist, you'll need at least a Master's degree in archaeology or anthropology. If you're employed as a researcher or teach at a university, you'll need a Ph.D. in either archaeology or anthropology. Completion of the Ph.D. degree requires 12 to 30 hours of field research, which you need to complete your dissertation or treatise, a detailed research paper. Other essential requirements for an archaeologist are physical stamina, attention to detail and investigative, analytical and critical thinking skills.

Salary by Industry

An archaeologist's salary can vary considerably by industry. In 2020, they earned the highest annual salaries of $79,270 with the federal executive branch of government, according to the BLS. They also earned above-average salaries working for museums and historical sites at $63,180 per year. If you were employed by an architectural and engineering services company, you'd earn $71,450. Construction workers employed by architectural or engineering firms may uncover skeletal remains at construction sites. You may then be required to test the DNA of the skeleton and identify it -- or assist a forensic anthropologist during this process. Your average salary teaching at a university would be $59,240 annually.

Salary by State

Archaeologists earned the highest annual salaries of $91,180 in the District of Columbia, according to BLS data. They also earned relatively high salaries of $75,260 and $71,220 per year, respectively, in Massachusetts and Alaska. If you worked in California as an archaeologist, you'd earn $61,770 per year. In Arizona, your salary would be $58,200, and you'd make $57,290 and $56,160, respectively, in Wyoming and New Mexico.

Job Outlook

The BLS projects a 9 percent increase in jobs for anthropologists and archaeologists from 2018 to 2028, which is about average compared to the 6 percent growth rate for all occupations. An increased demand for understanding past cultures and applying it to current issues should increase job opportunities for archaeologists. Jobs in this field will be competitive, so consider getting your Ph.D. degree in archaeology or anthropology for the best job opportunities.

Anthropologists and Archeologists salary

• Top 10% Annual Salary: More than $102,770 ($49.41/hour)
• Median Annual Salary: $66,130 ($31.79/hour)
• Bottom 10% Annual Salary: Less than $40,800 ($19.62/hour)