Economists vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists: Who Earns More?
Economists out-earn Occupational Health and Safety Specialists by $35K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Economists land at $124,720 and Occupational Health and Safety Specialists 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 Economists is District of Columbia ($167,590); for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists 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, Economists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Economists earn more nationally. The median is $124,720 for Economists versus $90,150 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists, a difference of $35K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Economists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists has the better 10-year outlook at 12.5% projected growth, compared to 1.2% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
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 Economists get paid the most?
District of Columbia is the top-paying state for Economists 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, Economists earn $167,590 vs. $111,530 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.