Economists vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists: Who Earns More?
Economistss out-earn Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss by $35K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Economistss land at $124,720 and Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss at $90,150. The education gap is real: economist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while occupational health and safety specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Economistss is District of Columbia ($167,590); for Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss it's District of Columbia ($111,530).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Economists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Economistss or Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss?
Economistss earn more nationally. The median is $124,720 for Economistss versus $90,150 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss, a difference of $35K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Economists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Economists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Economists typically requires bachelor's degree. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Economistss get paid the most?
District of Columbia is the top-paying state for Economistss at $167,590/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Economists vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In District of Columbia, Economistss earn $167,590 vs. $111,530 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.