Sociologists
Sociologists study society and social behavior by examining the groups, cultures, social institutions, and processes that develop when people interact and work together.
Is sociologists a good career?
It scores 24/100 and ranks #238 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays well above the U.S. median wage ($106,030 vs $61,390)
Possible tradeoffs
- Typically requires a master's degree
What sociologists earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. sociologists earn between $82,300 and $137,420 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live sociologists jobs
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- Typical education
- Master's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow as fast as average through 2034.
Education
Sociologists typically need a master’s degree to enter the occupation. Depending on the position, some employers prefer to hire candidates who have a Ph.D.
Master's degree programs typically require applicants to have a bachelor's degree, but candidates may not need to have majored in sociology or a related social science field. Courses include research methods and statistics. Many programs also offer opportunities to gain experience through internships or by preparing reports for clients.
Important qualities
Adaptability. Sociologists must let research guide their approach to the social issues they study and adjust their methods if needed.
Analytical skills. Sociologists must be able to examine data and other information, often using statistical methods to test their theories.
Communication skills. Sociologists need to be able to convey information clearly both in writing and orally, such as when presenting research.
Critical-thinking skills. Sociologists collect, process, and synthesize information to draw logical conclusions about the topics they research.
Interpersonal skills. Sociologists must be able to establish a rapport when conducting interviews. They also collaborate with social scientists and others as part of a team.
Problem-solving skills. Sociologists propose strategies to resolve the social problems they study, basing solutions on the results of their research.
Related occupations
How much do sociologists make?
The national median wage is $106,030 a year, with the middle half earning between $82,300 and $137,420 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is sociologists a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 24 of 100 and ranks #238 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +3.6% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a sociologist?
The typical entry-level education is master's degree.
Where do sociologists earn the most?
Among states, Illinois pays the highest median ($140,770). Local pay for every state and metro is below.