Astronomers vs. Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists: Who Earns More?
Astronomers out-earn Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists by $25K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Astronomers land at $128,820 and Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists at $103,410. The education gap is real: astronomer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while medical scientists, except epidemiologist programs require doctoral or professional degree. Top-paying state for Astronomers is Maryland ($132,620); for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists it's California ($136,990).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Astronomers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Astronomers or Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists?
Astronomers earn more nationally. The median is $128,820 for Astronomers versus $103,410 for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists, a difference of $25K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Astronomers or Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists?
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists has the better 10-year outlook at 8.7% projected growth, compared to 2.2% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Astronomers or Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists?
Astronomers typically requires bachelor's degree. Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists requires doctoral or professional degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Astronomers get paid the most?
Maryland is the top-paying state for Astronomers at $132,620/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Astronomers vs. Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Maryland, Astronomers earn $132,620 vs. $106,000 for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.