Political Scientists Salary in Michigan

Political scientists in Michigan earn the most in Ann Arbor (average $110,690 a year) and the least in Detroit ($89,470), across the 2 Michigan metro areas we cover. Statewide, BLS puts the political scientists average at $102,060 and the median at $86,290 for 180 workers. The U.S. average for this job is $142,510.

Political Scientists average salary by city in Michigan

Ann Arbor$110,690
Detroit$89,470

Pay, take-home pay and cost of living

City	Average	Median	25th pct.	Take-home*	Cost of living
Ann Arbor	$110,690	$86,290	$72,930	$82,243	101
Detroit	$89,470	$79,990	$79,990	$66,208	100

*Average salary after federal and state taxes for a single filer. Cost of living: BEA price parity, U.S. = 100.

Political Scientists salary in other states

Political Scientists salary by city and state

More about pay in Michigan

Sources and how to read this page

Wages: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025 estimates for metropolitan areas. SOC code 19-3094.
U.S. and statewide figures: BLS OEWS national and state estimates, May 2025, every employer including rural areas.
Cost of living: Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (RPP), 2024; 100 = U.S. average.

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