Sociologists vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists: Who Earns More?
Sociologistss out-earn Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss by $16K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Sociologistss land at $106,030 and Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss at $90,150. The education gap is real: sociologist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while occupational health and safety specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Sociologistss is Illinois ($140,770); 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 Sociologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Sociologistss or Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss?
Sociologistss earn more nationally. The median is $106,030 for Sociologistss versus $90,150 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss, a difference of $16K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Sociologists 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, Sociologists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Sociologists 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 Sociologistss get paid the most?
Illinois is the top-paying state for Sociologistss at $140,770/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Sociologists vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Illinois, Sociologistss earn $140,770 vs. $98,270 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.