Public Health Officer Salary.
Across 83 U.S. cities.
$78,000
national median salary
$60,000 to $102,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$109,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$82,000
New Orleans, LA
Lowest Paying
$61,000
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 Public Health Officer salary in the United States is $78,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $60,000 at the 25th percentile to $102,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $109,000, while New Orleans offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Degree level and jurisdictional scope are the primary drivers.
Public Health Officer salary by city
Skills that increase Public Health Officer pay
The skills below command measurable salary premiums for Public Health Officers based on job posting data. Learning the top skill here could add $10,920 to your annual compensation.
≈ +$10,920 per year
≈ +$10,140 per year
≈ +$9,360 per year
≈ +$8,580 per year
≈ +$8,580 per year
≈ +$7,800 per year
≈ +$7,800 per year
≈ +$7,020 per year
What you should know
Degree level and jurisdictional scope are the primary drivers. MPH holders earn 15 to 25% more than bachelor's-level staff, and MD or DrPH credentials push salaries higher. Federal agencies (CDC, NIH) pay more than state or local health departments. Epidemiology and biostatistics specializations command premiums over general public health administration.
Entry-level public health analysts start at $60,000 to $70,000. Mid-level epidemiologists and program managers earn $78,000 to $102,000 after four to six years. Health department directors reach $110,000 to $150,000, with state health officers earning $140,000 to $200,000.
Federal public health officers receive GS-scale pay, locality adjustments, TSP retirement matching, and generous leave accrual. Commissioned Corps officers in the USPHS receive military-equivalent benefits including tax-free housing allowances and early retirement eligibility.