Statisticians

SOC code 15-2041 · O*NET-SOC 15-2041.00 · Extensive preparation needed · Computer and IT

Bright Outlook — O*NET expects rapid growth for this occupation

Statisticians pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$105,650

a year

Hourly

$50.79

per hour

10th$64,000Median$105,65090th$174,050

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$115,700

$55.63 per hour

Middle 50%

$82,220 – $141,490

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$64,000 – $174,050

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

29,030

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $64,000; $30.77/hr
25th percentile: $82,220; $39.53/hr
Median percentile: $105,650; $50.79/hr
75th percentile: $141,490; $68.03/hr
90th percentile: $174,050; $83.68/hr

What does a statistician do?

Develop or apply mathematical or statistical theory and methods to collect, organize, interpret, and summarize numerical data to provide usable information. May specialize in fields such as biostatistics, agricultural statistics, business statistics, or economic statistics. Includes mathematical and survey statisticians.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Analyze and interpret statistical data to identify significant differences in relationships among sources of information.
Evaluate the statistical methods and procedures used to obtain data to ensure validity, applicability, efficiency, and accuracy.
Report results of statistical analyses, including information in the form of graphs, charts, and tables.
Determine whether statistical methods are appropriate, based on user needs or research questions of interest.
Prepare data for processing by organizing information, checking for inaccuracies, and adjusting and weighting the raw data.
Develop and test experimental designs, sampling techniques, and analytical methods.
Identify relationships and trends in data, as well as any factors that could affect the results of research.
Present statistical and nonstatistical results, using charts, bullets, and graphs, in meetings or conferences to audiences such as clients, peers, and students.

How to become a statistician

Most people in this role hold master's degree — 62% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 5 — Extensive preparation needed

Education: Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).
Experience: Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.
Training: Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.

See all zone 5 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

Master's Degree62%
Bachelor's Degree14%
Doctoral Degree10%
Some College Courses5%

Common questions

How much does a statistician earn?

The national median is $105,650 a year. The full range runs from $64,000 at the 10th percentile to $174,050 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a statistician without a degree?

Not usually — this occupation sits in preparation zone 5, where the typical entry route is most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree). The education breakdown above shows what people in the role actually reported.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Mathematics4.9/5
Reading Comprehension4.0/5
Critical Thinking4.0/5
Active Listening3.9/5
Speaking3.9/5
Writing3.8/5
Active Learning3.8/5
Science3.5/5

Knowledge areas

Mathematics4.7/5
Computers and Electronics4.2/5
English Language3.9/5
Education and Training2.9/5
Administration and Management2.8/5

Transferable strengths: Complex Problem Solving, Judgment and Decision Making.