Geospatial Analyst / GIS Salary.
Across 83 U.S. cities.
$73,000
national median salary
$56,000 to $96,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$98,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$76,000
Anchorage, AK
Lowest Paying
$58,000
Charleston, WV
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Geospatial Analyst / GIS salary in the United States is $73,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $56,000 at the 25th percentile to $96,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $98,000, while Anchorage offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Industry application drives the widest pay variation, with defense, oil and gas, and tech companies paying 20 to 35% more than government or environmental consulting.
Geospatial Analyst / GIS salary by city
Skills that increase Geospatial Analyst / GIS pay
The skills below command measurable salary premiums for Geospatial Analyst / GISs based on job posting data. Learning the top skill here could add $10,220 to your annual compensation.
≈ +$10,220 per year
≈ +$9,490 per year
≈ +$8,760 per year
≈ +$8,030 per year
≈ +$8,030 per year
≈ +$7,300 per year
≈ +$7,300 per year
≈ +$6,570 per year
What you should know
Industry application drives the widest pay variation, with defense, oil and gas, and tech companies paying 20 to 35% more than government or environmental consulting. Proficiency in Python, R, and cloud-based geospatial platforms boosts earnings significantly. Remote sensing and LiDAR processing skills add notable premiums.
Junior GIS analysts start at $56,000 to $65,000. Senior geospatial analysts earn $73,000 to $96,000 after four to six years. GIS managers and geospatial directors reach $100,000 to $135,000, with principal spatial data scientists at tech firms exceeding $150,000.
Government GIS roles offer stable benefits, pension, and step increases. Defense contractors add clearance pay of $5,000 to $15,000. Tech companies working on mapping, autonomous vehicles, or logistics offer equity grants and 10 to 15% bonuses.