Botanists in the United States make on average around $60,000 to $77,000 per year in 2025, with some variation depending on experience, location, and employer. The average hourly wage is approximately $37. Salaries typically range from about $50,000 to $93,000 annually, but the highest can reach above $100,000 for senior or specialized positions. For example, in California, the average is slightly lower, around $51,000 to $54,000 per year. Entry-level botanists may start closer to $36,000 per year, while experienced professionals can earn $70,000 or more.