Librarian Salary in the United States
Based on 134K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$67,495
$32.45/hr
▲ 4.5% vs 2024Salary Range
$64K – $130K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
134K
workers nationwide
Librarian salary in the United States varies based on experience, location, and employer type. The median annual salary for librarians stands at $64,573, with approximately 131,870 professionals currently employed in this field. This figure provides a useful benchmark for job seekers and employers alike when evaluating compensation packages in the library profession.
Several factors influence earning potential for librarians across the country. Advanced degrees, specialized certifications, and years of experience typically lead to higher compensation. Geographic location plays a significant role, as librarians in major metropolitan areas and certain states often earn substantially more than those in rural regions. Additionally, the type of employer—whether academic, public, or private library systems—can affect salary levels and benefits packages.
Salary Distribution — Librarian
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $64,440 |
| 25th percentile | $80,690 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $67,495 |
| 75th percentile | $118,540 |
| 90th percentile | $129,690 |
Librarian Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Librarian
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Washington | $100,030 | +48.2% | 3K |
| 2 | District of Columbia | $96,550 | +43.0% | 960 |
| 3 | California | $89,790 | +33.0% | 10K |
| 4 | Maryland | $88,570 | +31.2% | 3K |
| 5 | Nevada | $84,540 | +25.3% | 610 |
| 6 | Connecticut | $79,210 | +17.4% | 3K |
| 7 | Alaska | $78,810 | +16.8% | 350 |
| 8 | New York | $78,590 | +16.4% | 12K |
| 9 | Massachusetts | $78,540 | +16.4% | 5K |
| 10 | New Jersey | $78,380 | +16.1% | 4K |
Historical Salary Trend — Librarian
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $60,472 |
| 2023 | $64,094 |
| 2024 | $64,573 |
| 2025 | $67,495 |
Librarian Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do librarians make per hour in the United States?
- Librarians in the United States earn a median hourly wage of $31/hour. This translates to an annual median salary of $64,573, though hourly rates can vary based on experience, location, and employer type.
What is the salary range for librarians in the US?
- The salary range for librarians in the United States spans from $60,150 to $124,490 per year. This wide range reflects differences in experience level, geographic location, and the type of library institution.
Which city pays librarians the most in America?
- Washington, D.C. is the top-paying city for librarians in the United States, with an average salary of $94,400 per year. This is significantly higher than the national median of $64,573.
How many librarians are employed in the United States?
- There are approximately 131,870 librarians currently employed in the United States. This represents the total workforce size for the profession across all library types and settings.