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The median salary for a truck driver is $49,920 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you love life on the road and to work independently, a career as a professional truck driver might suit you. What’s more, you may be able to earn significantly more than the average: Truck drivers in the United States can make between $40,000 and $95,000 a year, and possibly even more.

How much a truck driver makes depends on several factors, including what kind of truck you drive, where you work, and your driving experience. Read on to learn more about this. Also, before you decide to hit the gas, it’s wise to investigate the benefits and drawbacks of the trucker lifestyle, which are also reviewed below.

What Are Truck Drivers?

Truck drivers are certified professionals trained to operate large commercial vehicles. They typically deliver large quantities of goods from one location to another.

A truck driver can spend long hours alone on the road, meaning it can be a good fit for introverts and a good job for antisocial people. Most truckers are employed by a trucking company, but some truck drivers make enough money to buy their own rigs and work as independent contractors.

Truck drivers typically must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) through their state, as well as specialized training and skills in order to drive this kind of vehicle (you’ll read more about this below).

Some of the responsibilities of a truck driver include:

•   Driving and operating commercial vehicles

•   Pre-inspecting the truck

•   Navigating road maps and destination routes

•   Verifying pick-up loads for accuracy and delivering cargo as instructed

•   Loading and unloading the goods

•   Maintaining basic vehicle maintenance

•   Complying with company safe work practices and policies

•   Accurately filling out company paperwork for deliveries

•   Staying current on truck driving permits and qualifications

•   Being able to lift up to 80 pounds repeatedly throughout the day.

Being a truck driver can be a good way to make money as a retiree. In fact, many cargo companies hire retired couples, as they can share the load and get more done together. You and your partner could travel in retirement while making extra income.


💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.

How Much Do Starting Truck Drivers Make a Year?

Entry-level truck drivers can make a salary ranging between $32,348 to $52,837, an average of $41, 342 a year. Salaries can vary depending on several factors, including the driver’s experience, the kind of truck they drive, and the homebase location and the cost of living there.

Some commercial trucking companies may pay novice drivers by the hour vs. a yearly salary. Even starting out, a trucker can make more than the average minimum wage, bringing in around $17.73 an hour.

Recommended: Should the Minimum Wage Be Raised?

What is the Average Salary for a Truck Driver?

You’ve already learned that the median salary for a truck driver is just shy of $50,000 a year. That said, there can be the potential to make over $100,000 a year doing this job. Keep in mind, the range of what you can make depends heavily on what kind of truck you drive, your experience, and job title.

Here’s an example of the pay ranges in the truck driving industry:

•   Private fleet driver: $29,992

•   Mining industry driver: $40,655

•   Hazmat driver: $61,068

•   Tanker driver: $$62,166

•   Ice road driver (seasonal): $66,422

•   Regional truck driver: $75,877

•   Oversized truck driver: $82,262

•   Team truck driver: $119,464

•   Owner operator: $320,912

Recommended: Which Trade Jobs Make the Most Money

What is the Average Truck Driver Salary by State?

A big factor in how much money a truck driver makes a month or in a year depends where they live. As with most jobs, trucker salaries can fluctuate from state to state, and some areas may have higher-paying jobs than others.

Here are the averages for local truck drivers by state, in alphabetical order:

State	Local Truck Driver Annual Salary
Alabama	$61,983
Alaska	$65,071
Arizona	$63,728
Arkansas	$49,018
California	$56,755
Colorado	$62,188
Connecticut	$59,005
Delaware	$58,851
Florida	$51,100
Georgia	$57,742
Hawaii	$63,210
Idaho	$54,193
Illinois	$57,444
Indiana	$65,073
Iowa	$59,276
Kansas	$54,726
Kentucky	$51,665
Louisiana	$54,627
Maine	$55,568
Maryland	$57,034
Massachusetts	$65,173
Michigan	$51,518
Minnesota	$62,568
Mississippi	$58,142
Missouri	$55,284
Montana	$62,767
Nebraska	$55,931
Nevada	$61,525
New Hampshire	$55,251
New Jersey	$66,994
New Mexico	$63,095
New York	$62,095
North Carolina	$53,615
North Dakota	$64,470
Ohio	$61,058
Oklahoma	$54,165
Oregon	$64,604
Pennsylvania	$56,890
Rhode Island	$59,839
South Carolina	$54,745
South Dakota	$60,931
Tennessee	$58,297
Texas	$53,737
Utah	$57,956
Vermont	$60,476
Virginia	$58,158
Washington	$65,467
West Virginia	$43,937
Wisconsin	$65,631
Wyoming	$66,508

Source: ZipRecruiter

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Truck Driver Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

In order to become a professional truck driver you have to be 18 to 21 years of age (the requirement differs from state to state) and have a clean driving record, including no DUIs. Most truck companies require their employees to have a high school diploma or a GED, and undergo routine drug tests.

The biggest requirement to becoming a truck driver is obtaining proper certification: your commercial driver’s license (CDL), as mentioned above. Truck driving certification can be done by:

•   Enrolling in a truck driver training program. While not required, these programs can prepare you for the CDL with classroom and hands-on training.

•   Passing a physical exam to determine you are fit enough to handle a commercial vehicle.

•   Obtain a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) via a written exam. This will allow you to drive a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder.

•   Getting your commercial driver’s license (CDL). This requires a written and driving exam.

•   Completing additional state requirements for driving vehicles such as tankers and those carrying hazardous materials.

Once you obtain your CDL and are hired by a company, many salaried truck driver jobs can come with the following benefits:

•   Health insurance

•   Paid time off

•   Retirement plans

•   Bonuses and incentives for reaching performance goals]

Pros and Cons of Being a Truck Driver

Being a professional truck driver can provide a solid income and a sense of freedom, but the job isn’t for everyone. Here are the biggest positives and negatives of being a truck driver:

Pros:

•   Potential for a steady yearly income.

•   No college degree required.

•   A quick start; most people can earn their CDL in 3 to 4 weeks.

•   High job demand/job security.

•   Opportunities to buy your own rig and be your own boss.

•   Traveling, sometimes across scenic America.

•   Pet perks: Many companies allow truckers to bring their dogs along for the ride.

•   Good benefits/driving bonuses.

•   An independent work day vs. punching the clock.

Cons:

•   Monotonous hours on the road.

•   Driving fatigue.

•   Unhealthy lifestyle due to long, sedentary stretches behind the wheel.

•   Poor diet. Many truckers exist on fast-food options while on the road.

•   Loneliness. You’ll spend days and possibly nights away from family, friends, and co-workers.

Of course, before embarking on any career, you’ll want to make sure your potential earnings will be enough to cover your expenses. Picking and sticking with one of the different budgeting methods can be helpful.

The Takeaway

How much a truck driver makes a year is on average $49,920, though salaries can vary considerably and soar higher if you own your own business. Being a truck driver can be a good fit for those who enjoy being out on the road and who are introverts, but the long hours and being away from home can be challenging.

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a truck driver?

The average truck driver earns $49,920 per year, but you can make $100,000 a year as a truck driver, especially if you own your own truck.

Do people like being a truck driver?

People who don’t mind the long hours and solitude might enjoy being a truck driver. Many truck drivers love the flexibility, salary, and traveling across America.

Is it hard to get hired as a truck driver?

No, it is not that hard. There is currently a shortage of truck drivers in the United States. The demand for CDL drivers is high.

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Photo credit: iStock/RichLegg

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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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A marine biologist can make an average base salary of $45,781 a year in the United States. This can be an exciting career choice for those who love the water — being in it or near it — and are curious about the mysteries of aquatic life.

How much a marine biologist makes depends on a variety of factors, including where you live, how much experience you have, and your area of expertise. Let’s dive into how you might pursue your passion for the sea, while keeping your finances afloat.

What Are Marine Biologists?

A marine biologist is a scientist who studies the life forms and ecosystems of oceans and saltwater lakes. They typically enjoy collecting data and patiently observing natural phenomena. Marine biologists can play an important role in protecting marine life and promoting environmental sustainability.

While some may imagine marine biology as a solitary job, working quietly in a lab or swimming silently alongside dolphins, it is not necessarily a job for introverts. Most marine biologists make money by collaborating with teams of people and sharing findings within a scientific community.

Some of the duties of a marine biologist can include:

•   Observing animals, microorganisms, and plants in oceans and saltwater lakes

•   Conducting studies on various species of sea animals and their ecosystems

•   Collecting samples of water, ocean plants and microorganisms for laboratory research

•   Performing laboratory experiments, using specialized equipment to assist their research

•   Administering medical care to injured or ill marine animals

•   Tracking migration and the reproductive patterns of fish and other marine mammals

•   Studying geological oceanography, to learn about ocean features such as ridges, trenches, and rises that affect marine environments

•   Discovering how to preserve marine life

•   Promoting environmental sustainability

•   Collaborating and sharing data with other specialists in marine biology

•   Composing scientific papers and reports for peers and the public

•   Giving presentations at educational institutions and museums on marine life

💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.

How Much Do Starting Marine Biologists Make a Year?

Starting out, marine biologists can be paid hourly or be given a yearly salary.

The starting hourly rate for a marine biologist is estimated to be around $18.50 — definitely higher than the federal minimum wage.

As the field typically requires professional expertise and commitment to long-term studies, marine biologists are usually paid a yearly salary. An entry level salary for a marine biologist in the United States tends to fall in the $40,000 to $50,000 range.

Most professions, including marine biology, probably aren’t going to offer $100,000 salaries to newcomers in the field. But there are ways to turn your passion for the ocean into more competitive pay opportunities.

What Is the Average Salary for a Marine Biologist?

A typical salary for a marine biologist is $45,781 a year. Here’s a bit more information: According to Indeed.com, the average competitive pay for a marine biologist as of January 2024 can range from $35,034 to $70,061. But some marine biology jobs can pay well above $100,000 a year.

How much a marine biologist makes can rely on your degree status, experience, and area of specialization. For example:

•   The national average for an oceanographer is $79,562 a year.

•   A marine veterinarian, who cares for animals such as sea turtles, fish, and whales, can earn a yearly salary of around $113,418.

•   Other high-paying marine biology jobs include marine biochemists, marine ecologists, marine mammalogists, and marine geneticists. These occupations can pay between $80,000 and $100,000 per year.

While a marine biologist can traditionally be a hands-on occupation, it is viewed as a scientific profession vs. a trade job.

Working marine biologists almost always have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, with many acquiring a master’s or doctorate in a chosen area. Advanced degrees are often needed for higher paying positions. (These, in turn, can leave a job seeker with student loan debt.)

What Is the Average Marine Biologist Salary by State?

A big factor in how much money a marine biologist makes depends on where they live. This means that state by state salaries will fluctuate. Here’s a look at average salaries by state, arranged alphabetically.

Average Salary by State for a Marine Biologist
State	Median Salary for a Marine Biologist
Alabama	$37,712
Alaska	$42,501
Arizona	$38,773
Arkansas	$32,379
California	$43,412
Colorado	$41,136
Connecticut	$37,953
Delaware	$47,502
Florida	$31,091
Georgia	$35,132
Hawaii	$41,119
Idaho	$41,611
Illinois	$37,945
Indiana	$39,592
Iowa	$37,746
Kansas	$35,422
Kentucky	$34,058
Louisiana	$34,543
Maine	$42,287
Maryland	$45,973
Massachusetts	$42,881
Michigan	$34,089
Minnesota	$39,565
Mississippi	$37,623
Missouri	$48,370
Montana	$38,189
Nebraska	$44,898
Nevada	$40,186
New Hampshire	$40,958
New Jersey	$41,586
New Mexico	$39,466
New York	$45,915
North Carolina	$35,516
North Dakota	$41,902
Ohio	$38,491
Oklahoma	$43,480
Oregon	$41,919
Pennsylvania	$42,056
Rhode Island	$38,827
South Carolina	$36,266
South Dakota	$39,602
Tennessee	$36,749
Texas	$41,406
Utah	$36,721
Vermont	$44,968
Virginia	$46,686
Washington	$50,714
West Virginia	$32,481
Wisconsin	$41,083
Wyoming	$40,201
Source: ZipRecruiter

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Marine Biologist Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

You can increase your salary range as a marine biologist if you are willinging to move to a higher-paying state, acquire an advanced degree, or specialize in certain areas of the field. But some factors that determine your salary are out of your control, including:

•   Funding/budget for your organization.

•   Type of organization, meaning private vs. public

•   Economic conditions

•   Demand for your skill set.

Since the majority of marine biologists secure a yearly salary, you may receive the following job benefits, among others:

•   Health coverage

•   Paid sick leave

•   Vacation days

•   Retirement plan participation.

While pursuing a salaried position as a marine biologist, make sure you understand how much you need to make to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Try creating a budget and check out financial tools that can help track your expenses vs. your income.

Pros and Cons of Being a Marine Biologist

If you have a scientific mind and love the water and marine life, being a marine biologist could be a dream job for you. Of course, even dream jobs can have their downsides.

Here are some of the pros and cons of working in the field of marine biology

Pros:

•   Traveling to new locations. Many marine biologists travel the world, with the oceans as their laboratories.

•   Working with a network of diverse people. Marine biologists work collaboratively, sharing data and consulting with a range of experts in the field.

•   Using state-of-the-art equipment. Marine biologists can have access to sophisticated, high-tech gear in order to further their studies.

•   Evolving your career. There are many ways to branch out into specialized fields in marine biology, so you can continue to excite your mind and, potentially, raise your salary.

•   Making a difference. Marine biologists have a chance to make an impact on serious environmental issues, especially in the areas of conservation and preservation.

•   Earning a good salary for something you love, especially if you pursue advanced degrees that open doors for highly paid positions.

Cons:

•   Long, isolated working hours. A marine biologist can be assigned to a research position out at sea for long periods of time. Being away from friends and family can take an emotional toll.

•   Physically demanding. Out in the field, you may be subject to severe weather conditions — extreme cold and sweltering heat.

•   Dangerous conditions. Typhoons, hurricanes, and storms at sea can put marine biologists at risk for injury.

•   Emotionally draining. Some marine biologists, when they see firsthand how humans are affecting the environment, may feel powerless to reverse the harm, which can be upsetting.

The Takeaway

The average figure for how much a marine biologist makes a year is $45,781. A career as a marine biologist can provide a sense of adventure and helping protect the earth’s waters and aquatic creatures. It can involve travel and exploration which, depending on your outlook, can be a real plus, while allowing you to earn a living.

FAQ

Can you make 100K a year as a marine biologist?

Some specialized marine biologists can command a salary of $100,000 or more a year, including marine veterinarians, marine biochemists, marine ecologists, marine mammalogists, or marine geneticists. The average marine biologist, however, may only earn half that amount.

What do people like about being a Marine Biologist?

Some marine biologists love traveling to distant places, working with marine life, meeting new people, and working toward having a positive environmental impact.

Is it hard to get hired as a Marine Biologist?

Finding a job as a marine biologist can depend on your field of expertise. Most marine biologists have, at a minimum, a bachelor’s degree, with many acquiring a master’s or doctorate. In addition, job opportunities will rely heavily on being able to relocate, if needed, to an area being studied.

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Photo credit: iStock/Rainer von Brandis

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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Uninsured motorist coverage shields you from having to pay for injuries and property damage in accidents that weren’t your fault and were caused by an uninsured driver.

According to the Insurance Research Council, 14.0% of motorists on the road are uninsured. Purchasing uninsured motorist coverage reduces the likelihood that you’ll have to pay out of pocket if you’re involved in an accident caused by one of these irresponsible drivers.

It’s generally a good idea to add uninsured motorist coverage to your auto insurance policy, as it’s fairly inexpensive, usually only costing an extra $5 – $10 a month, per vehicle, for policyholders with clean driving histories. Below, we give you the scoop on the different kinds of uninsured motorist coverage and what these policies entail.

Breaking Down Uninsured Motorist Coverage Variations

There are two main kinds of uninsured motorist coverage. Similar to your standard auto insurance policy’s collision and bodily injury coverage, this kind of policy breaks down into uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage and uninsured motorist property damage coverage.

•   Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage: Covers your party’s medical expenses and related costs in accidents caused by uninsured drivers.

•   Uninsured motorist property damage coverage: Covers your repair bills and related costs in accidents caused by uninsured drivers.

Bodily injury and property damage coverage for uninsured motorists are sometimes packaged and sold together when you purchase uninsured motorist insurance. However, this isn’t the case with all policies; check with your insurance provider to know for sure. Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these kinds of coverage.

Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage (UMBI)

Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage (UMBI) pays for the cost of medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and funeral costs (though we hope that is never needed) in the event an uninsured driver causes an accident in which you’re the victim.

In some instances, this policy may pay out if you, as a pedestrian or bicyclist, are involved in an accident caused by an uninsured driver. Check with your insurance provider to confirm whether this might be covered.

UMBI typically does not have a deductible to meet; you would get full reimbursement of the costs.

Uninsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage (UMPD)

Uninsured motorist property damage coverage (UMPD) pays for the cost of repair bills for either your vehicle or property in the event either is involved in an accident caused by an uninsured driver.

Unlike bodily injury coverage, UMPD often requires the payment of a deductible when used. This is usually set by state law and typically is between $100 and $1,000.


💡 Quick Tip: If your car is paid off and worth only a few thousand dollars, consider updating your car insurance: You might choose to opt out of collision coverage and double down on liability.

Uninsured vs Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Here’s another kind of coverage you should know about: underinsured motorist coverage, which helps cover your costs if you’re involved in an accident where the party at fault has insufficient insurance coverage to pay for your medical costs.

Underinsured motorist coverage differs from uninsured motorist coverage in that it’s designed to cover any shortfalls in your costs due to the underinsured motorist’s inadequate insurance policy. By contrast, uninsured motorist coverage covers your bills due to the uninsured driver’s failure to purchase insurance.

Similar to uninsured motorist coverage, underinsured motorist coverage also comes in bodily injury and property damage variants. Both bodily injury and property damage coverage is usually packaged and sold together, though insurance policies may vary.

Underinsured motorist coverage is sold separately from uninsured motorist coverage, and states can have different coverage requirements for each. Check with your insurance provider to verify whether you need to purchase these separately.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage Limits

Your auto insurance quote will typically break down your uninsured motorist coverage limits into two numbers: a smaller dollar figure followed by a larger dollar figure, separated by a slash. For example, $100,000/$300,000.

This can also be expressed as follows:

•   $100,000 per person

•   $300,000 per accident

These two numbers represent the per person and per accident coverage limits of your uninsured motorist insurance. The per person limit is the maximum your insurance company will pay for any single individual injured in a covered accident. Conversely, the per accident limit is the maximum your insurance company will pay for a covered accident, regardless of how many injured people are in your party.

How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Limits Work

If you’re thinking, “But what exactly does that mean?” we hear you. Let’s spell out how this coverage would work. If you have a family of five that’s riding in a car and it gets hit by an uninsured driver, the maximum amount your insurance company will pay for their cumulative medical bills is $300,000, despite each individual’s coverage limit being $100,000.

If you’re ever involved in an accident caused by an uninsured driver where your costs exceed your coverage limits, in most cases, your health insurance policy will usually kick in to cover the balance. Consult your insurance providers for the specifics on your policies.

Recommended: How Much Auto Insurance Do I Really Need?

How Much Uninsured Motorist Coverage Do I Need?

The answer depends on whether your state requires uninsured motorist coverage. If it does, you must buy at least the state’s minimum (for more details, see below). Typically, this amount will match your liability coverage amounts. If your state does not require this kind of coverage, consider variables like the healthcare costs in your state and how much your vehicle is worth. Generally, uninsured motorist coverage is fairly affordable and is a worthy investment for some peace of mind.

According to the Insurance Research Council, approximately one in seven drivers on the road are uninsured. This figure is even higher in states like Mississippi and Michigan, where over 25% of drivers on the road are estimated to be uninsured.

Based on those figures, residents of higher risk states may be well-served by purchasing uninsured motorist coverage, while it might not be as high of a priority for residents of lower-risk states, like Massachusetts or New Jersey, where 3.5% and 3.1% of drivers respectively are estimated to be uninsured.

Now, let’s circle back to the states that do require this kind of policy. The table below lists the regulations regarding the minimum required uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage for each state.

Recommended: What Does Liability Auto Insurance Typically Cover?

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage Requirements by State

Let’s take a look at the guidelines in every state, so you can see how much coverage may be required where you live. In each category, the amount shown is per person/per accident. When there is not a figure in an area of the chart, that means the insurance isn’t required.

State	Uninsured Bodily Injury	Uninsured Property Damage	Underinsured Bodily Injury	Underinsured Property Damage
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut	$25,000/$50,000		$25,000/$50,000
Delaware
District of Columbia	$25,000/$50,000	$5,000
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois	$25,000/$50,000		$25,000/$50,000
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas	$25,000/$50,000		$25,000/$50,000
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine	$50,000/$100,000		$50,000/$100,000
Maryland	$30,000/$60,000	$15,000	$30,000/$60,000	$15,000
Massachusetts	$20,000/$40,000
Michigan
Minnesota	$25,000/$50,000		$25,000/$50,000
Mississippi
Missouri	$25,000/$50,000
Montana
Nebraska	$25,000/$50,000		$25,000/$50,000
Nevada
New Hampshire*	$25,000/$50,000	$25,000	$25,000/$50,000	$25,000
New Jersey			$15,000/$30,000
New York	$25,000/$50,000
North Carolina	$30,000/$60,000	$25,000	$30,000/$60,000	$25,000
North Dakota	$25,000/$50,000		$25,000/$50,000
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon	$25,000/$50,000
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina	$25,000/$50,000	$25,000
South Dakota	$25,000/$50,000		$25,000/$50,000
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont	$50,000/$100,000	$10,000	$50,000/$100,000	$10,000
Virginia*	$30,000/$60,000	$25,000	$30,000/$60,000	$25,000
Washington
West Virginia	$25,000/$50,000	$25,000
Wisconsin	$25,000/$50,000
Wyoming

^*New Hampshire and Virginia do not require drivers to purchase auto insurance, but drivers who do choose to purchase auto insurance must have at least the minimum uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage amounts listed.

Recommended: 5 Steps to Switching Your Car Insurance

How Much Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Cost?

Depending on how much uninsured motorist coverage you choose to purchase and your personal driving habits, your costs could be as little as $5 to $10 per month. This figure also tends to vary widely based on the overall percentage of uninsured motorists in your area, according to national insurance data.

Insurance premiums vary widely across drivers, states, and even insurance providers, so make sure you check around for a personalized quote.


💡 Quick Tip: Saving money on your fixed costs isn’t always easy. One exception is auto insurance. Shopping around for a better deal really can pay off.

The Takeaway

The prospect of being in an accident caused by an uninsured driver is a real concern, given the number of these motorists on the road. Adding uninsured motorist coverage to your auto insurance policy may be a good idea. In some states, it may even be required by law. For a relatively low cost, you can protect yourself from the possibility of being left with bills because another driver didn’t have enough insurance. The right package of car insurance policies is one way to protect yourself from unexpected circumstances.

When you’re ready to shop for auto insurance, SoFi can help. Our online auto insurance comparison tool lets you see quotes from a network of top insurance providers within minutes, saving you time and hassle.

SoFi brings you real rates, with no bait and switch.

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Photo credit: iStock/RyanJLane

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for a dermatologist as of 2022 is $327,650. This career can be a challenging and rewarding profession, both financially and emotionally. Dermatologists can help their patients look and feel their best. In some cases, they can even save their lives.

Read on to better understand what it’s like to work as a dermatologist, how much they earn, and the benefits and downsides of choosing this line of work.

What Are Dermatologists

Dermatologists are a type of doctors who specialize in the field of dermatology. They manage diagnoses and treatments relating to skin, hair, and nail health. They help patients with issues ranging from eczema and skin infections to acne and skin cancer.

Some dermatologists perform cosmetic procedures like laser treatments, injections, and chemical peels. An important role that dermatologists also take on is educating patients on sun protection to help them avoid running into skin damage and skin cancer.

As you might imagine, considerable training is involved to become a dermatologist. Typically, it can take 12 years of training and education. To complete this, some aspiring dermatologists will take out student loans. The amount of average student loan debt can be similar to the amount any other medical doctor takes on, meaning in the range of $200,000.


💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting Dermatologists Make a Year?

It’s important to note that dermatologists will likely see their salaries rise over time. While their entry-level salary may be lower than the average figure, it should rise over time.

That being said, the lowest 10% of earners in this role make an estimated annual wage of $102,010. So even the lowest income is likely around or over the $100,000 a year salary level.

What is the Average Salary for a Dermatologist?

As briefly noted earlier, the average salary or hourly wage for a dermatologist can be affected by where they work.

This applies to the type of medical practice or healthcare setting they work in. Consider the annual mean wage by workplace, all of which can be relatively high-paying jobs:

•   Offices of physicians: $338,810

•   Offices of other health practitioners: $200,900

•   Personal care services: $126,640

Next, take a closer look at how dermatologist salaries vary by the state they work in, arranged from highest annual pay to lowest.

What is the Average Dermatologist Salary by State for 2023

State	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly Wage
New York	$417,984	$34,832	$8,038	$200.95
Vermont	$410,790	$34,232	$7,899	$197.50
California	$403,464	$33,622	$7,758	$193.97
Maine	$391,809	$32,650	$7,534	$188.37
Idaho	$387,606	$32,300	$7,453	$186.35
Washington	$384,581	$32,048	$7,395	$184.90
Pennsylvania	$382,812	$31,901	$7,361	$184.04
Massachusetts	$378,130	$31,510	$7,271	$181.79
Alaska	$375,736	$31,311	$7,225	$180.64
New Jersey	$374,345	$31,195	$7,198	$179.97
New Hampshire	$373,458	$31,121	$7,181	$179.55
Oregon	$371,445	$30,953	$7,143	$178.58
North Dakota	$371,076	$30,923	$7,136	$178.40
Wisconsin	$368,704	$30,725	$7,090	$177.26
Wyoming	$365,397	$30,449	$7,026	$175.67
Hawaii	$364,033	$30,336	$7,000	$175.02
Colorado	$362,070	$30,172	$6,962	$174.07
Indiana	$358,997	$29,916	$6,903	$172.60
Nevada	$355,272	$29,606	$6,832	$170.80
New Mexico	$354,287	$29,523	$6,813	$170.33
Minnesota	$353,792	$29,482	$6,803	$170.09
Arizona	$351,574	$29,297	$6,761	$169.03
South Dakota	$350,707	$29,225	$6,744	$168.61
Montana	$346,277	$28,856	$6,659	$166.48
Ohio	$344,572	$28,714	$6,626	$165.66
Rhode Island	$344,050	$28,670	$6,616	$165.41
Delaware	$343,410	$28,617	$6,604	$165.10
Alabama	$341,952	$28,496	$6,576	$164.40
Virginia	$339,682	$28,306	$6,532	$163.31
Connecticut	$337,334	$28,111	$6,487	$162.18
Iowa	$336,698	$28,058	$6,474	$161.87
Illinois	$334,142	$27,845	$6,425	$160.65
Mississippi	$333,696	$27,808	$6,417	$160.43
Maryland	$332,886	$27,740	$6,401	$160.04
Tennessee	$328,977	$27,414	$6,326	$158.16
Utah	$328,133	$27,344	$6,310	$157.76
Nebraska	$326,672	$27,222	$6,282	$157.05
Missouri	$322,302	$26,858	$6,198	$154.95
South Carolina	$319,039	$26,586	$6,135	$153.38
Georgia	$318,554	$26,546	$6,126	$153.15
Oklahoma	$316,356	$26,363	$6,083	$152.09
Texas	$315,939	$26,328	$6,075	$151.89
Kansas	$314,148	$26,179	$6,041	$151.03
North Carolina	$312,455	$26,037	$6,008	$150.22
Louisiana	$308,889	$25,740	$5,940	$148.50
Kentucky	$300,127	$25,010	$5,771	$144.29
Michigan	$300,010	$25,000	$5,769	$144.24
West Virginia	$295,651	$24,637	$5,685	$142.14
Arkansas	$285,133	$23,761	$5,483	$137.08
Florida	$281,918	$23,493	$5,421	$135.54

Source: Ziprecruiter

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Dermatologist Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Alongside receiving competitive pay, many dermatologists work full-time and therefore qualify for employer benefits.

•   If they run their own medical practice, they would need to purchase these benefits for themselves and their employees.

•   If they work for a practice they don’t own, a medical group, or in a hospital setting, they should qualify for valuable employee benefits like paid time off, retirement accounts, and healthcare.

Pros and Cons of Dermatologist Salary

The main advantage of a dermatologist salary is that it is usually quite high. The tradeoff for that high salary may be a lot of student loan debt, as noted above.

To work as a dermatologist in the United States, you need to attend and finance medical school after receiving an undergraduate degree, which can be quite time-consuming and costly.

The Takeaway

Working as a dermatologist makes it possible to help people dealing with skin care and concerns, while earning a good salary. Dermatologists earn a median annual wage of $327,650, which is a salary many people would be happy with. However, obtaining the necessary training can be quite expensive, so dermatologists may start their careers with considerable student loan debt to pay off.

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a dermatologist?

It’s very possible to earn $100,000 a year as a dermatologist. Even the 10% of lowest wage earners in this role earn an estimated annual salary of $102,010.

Do people like being a dermatologist?

Many people enjoy working as a dermatologist as this role can be fulfilling. Not only is the work interesting (diagnosing and resolving health concerns), but it involves helping people live healthier and happier lives.

Is it hard to get hired as a dermatologist?

It may not be challenging to find a job as a dermatologist once the applicant has the proper qualifications as the field is growing at a rate that is at least on par with other professions, if not higher.

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Photo credit: iStock/stefanamer

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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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The median pay for surgical techs is $56,350 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Working as a surgical tech can be a great way to build a fulfilling career in the medical field. Read on to learn more about a surgical tech’s role and salary, as well as the pros and cons of this job.

What Are Surgical Techs

The role of a surgical tech can vary greatly but generally involves assisting surgeons with tasks, such as closing surgical sites and making incisions. Other common duties include:

•   Readying supplies for surgery

•   Sterilizing equipment

•   Getting the operating room surgery-ready

•   Physically preparing patients for surgery

•   Assisting surgeons during surgery

•   Maintaining sterile environment

•   Keeping track of supplies during and after surgery.

While some of these tasks are solitary, many involve interacting with patients and other members of the medical team. Given this degree of interaction, this can be a very rewarding career choice, although it may not be a good job for antisocial people.

Surgical techs often complete training at a community college or vocational school, typically requiring nine to 24 months of study. For this reason, being a surgical tech can be a good career without a college degree.


💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.

How Much Do Starting Surgical Techs Make a Year?

Here’s information about what a surgical tech can make as an entry-level salary and later on in their career. The lowest 10% of surgical tech earners make less than $35,130 as of 2022.

However, there is a lot of room to move up in this field. The top 10% of earners make on average $95,060, meaning they are very close to making a $100,000 salary per year.

If someone is looking to optimize their earning potential, they should look for a surgical tech role in a high-paying setting. The type of medical office a surgical tech works in can affect how much they earn:

•   Offices of physicians: $62,400

•   Outpatient care centers: $59,740

•   General medical and surgical hospitals; state, local, and private: $58,460

•   Offices of dentists: $48,810.

Recommended: The 50 Highest Paying Jobs in the US

What is the Average Salary for a Surgical Tech?

Those considering training to be a surgical tech may wonder about pay grades. The truth is, that answer depends a lot on the state they end up working in. The median hourly pay rate for this role is $27.09, but as the table illustrates below, can vary greatly by state.

The figures here for average salary and wages are arranged from highest to lowest paying.

What Is the Average Surgical Tech Salary by State for 2023

State	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly Wage
Oregon	$112,962	$9,413	$2,172	$54.31
Alaska	$112,406	$9,367	$2,161	$54.04
North Dakota	$112,389	$9,365	$2,161	$54.03
Massachusetts	$111,047	$9,253	$2,135	$53.39
Hawaii	$110,015	$9,167	$2,115	$52.89
Washington	$107,487	$8,957	$2,067	$51.68
Nevada	$106,280	$8,856	$2,043	$51.10
South Dakota	$106,220	$8,851	$2,042	$51.07
Colorado	$104,887	$8,740	$2,017	$50.43
Rhode Island	$104,629	$8,719	$2,012	$50.30
New York	$99,697	$8,308	$1,917	$47.93
Delaware	$98,598	$8,216	$1,896	$47.40
Vermont	$97,356	$8,113	$1,872	$46.81
Virginia	$97,172	$8,097	$1,868	$46.72
Illinois	$97,143	$8,095	$1,868	$46.70
Maryland	$95,489	$7,957	$1,836	$45.91
Nebraska	$93,450	$7,787	$1,797	$44.93
Missouri	$92,871	$7,739	$1,785	$44.65
California	$92,615	$7,717	$1,781	$44.53
South Carolina	$92,071	$7,672	$1,770	$44.26
Pennsylvania	$91,330	$7,610	$1,756	$43.91
New Jersey	$91,143	$7,595	$1,752	$43.82
Oklahoma	$90,500	$7,541	$1,740	$43.51
Maine	$90,453	$7,537	$1,739	$43.49
Wisconsin	$90,262	$7,521	$1,735	$43.40
North Carolina	$90,170	$7,514	$1,734	$43.35
New Hampshire	$88,816	$7,401	$1,708	$42.70
Idaho	$88,596	$7,383	$1,703	$42.59
Texas	$88,000	$7,333	$1,692	$42.31
Kentucky	$87,715	$7,309	$1,686	$42.17
Wyoming	$87,407	$7,283	$1,680	$42.02
Minnesota	$87,181	$7,265	$1,676	$41.91
Michigan	$86,830	$7,235	$1,669	$41.75
New Mexico	$86,691	$7,224	$1,667	$41.68
Indiana	$86,252	$7,187	$1,658	$41.47
Ohio	$84,743	$7,061	$1,629	$40.74
Arizona	$84,468	$7,039	$1,624	$40.61
Connecticut	$84,039	$7,003	$1,616	$40.40
Mississippi	$83,449	$6,954	$1,604	$40.12
Iowa	$83,345	$6,945	$1,602	$40.07
Montana	$83,195	$6,932	$1,599	$40.00
Arkansas	$82,892	$6,907	$1,594	$39.85
Alabama	$82,157	$6,846	$1,579	$39.50
Utah	$80,963	$6,746	$1,556	$38.92
Tennessee	$80,904	$6,742	$1,555	$38.90
Kansas	$78,574	$6,547	$1,511	$37.78
Georgia	$76,536	$6,378	$1,471	$36.80
Louisiana	$76,117	$6,343	$1,463	$36.59
West Virginia	$70,535	$5,877	$1,356	$33.91
Florida	$67,735	$5,644	$1,302	$32.57

Source: Ziprecruiter

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Surgical Tech Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

It’s very common for surgical techs to hold full-time positions and as such, they tend to qualify for traditional employee benefits like paid time off, retirement accounts, and healthcare. This can be a very demanding role that may require being on call during weekends, holidays, and nights. Shifts can also be very lengthy and last longer than a typical eight-hour workday.

Pros and Cons of Surgical Tech Salary

Still not sure if working as a surgical tech is the right fit? Here are some pros and cons associated with this role’s salary and job requirements.

Pros	Cons
•   Median annual salary is high ($56,350) •   May not need a college degree •   Employment opportunities expected to grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032 •   Around 8,600 openings for this role per year	•   Long shifts that can surpass eight hours •   Physically demanding work •   Can be on call during nights, weekends, and holidays

Recommended: High-paying Trade and Vocational Jobs in 2024

The Takeaway

With a solid median annual salary of $56,350 and the top 10% of income earners in the surgical tech field making more than $95,060, there is a lot of earning potential in this role. The job can be demanding and being on call is often part of the job description, but the high pay can be worth the sacrifices.

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a surgical tech?

It may be possible to make $100,000 a year as a surgical tech for those with a lot of experience or who work in high-cost-of-living areas where standard pay is higher. The top 10% of surgical tech earners make more than $95,060 annually, so the potential to earn six figures is within reach.

Do people like being a surgical tech?

Many people enjoy working as a surgical tech, especially if they have an interest in the medical field and helping people. However, those who are introverts or who consider themselves antisocial may not enjoy this job.

Is it hard to get hired as a surgical tech?

While you have to meet very specific qualifications to work as a surgical tech, if you do, you can likely find job openings in this field. Between 2022 and 2023, surgical tech employment is projected to grow by 5%. This growth rate is faster than average compared to other occupations.

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Photo credit: iStock/SDI Productions

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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