Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Geographer studies the Earth's surface, including its physical features, inhabitants, and phenomena. They analyze environments, landscapes, and spatial relationships using various tools and technologies.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 1.1% (below average)
Annual job openings: 100
Direct AI exposure: 8% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 67% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $102K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $67K per year | $80K per year | $102K per year | $122K per year | $137K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $51K above the national average. | ||||
Geographers work in various settings, including government agencies, academic institutions, research organizations, and private sector companies. Their work often combines fieldwork, where they gather data, with office settings where they analyze findings using geographic information systems (GIS) and other tools.
Geographers explore the complexities of the Earth's surface, blending knowledge from various disciplines, including sociology, economics, and environmental sciences. They use tools like GIS to visualize and analyze spatial data, making sense of patterns and relationships in diverse topics, from urban planning to climate change. Geographers play a crucial role in planning, conservation, and policy-making by providing insights into how human activities interact with the physical world.
A career in geography offers a dynamic work environment, often involving a balance of fieldwork, data analysis, and collaboration with other experts. Geographers must be adept at using technology for data collection and analysis, as well as skilled in critical thinking and problem-solving. They often communicate complex geographic information to non-specialists, requiring excellent presentation and writing skills.
Working as a geographer can be fulfilling, offering opportunities to contribute to important environmental and societal issues. Geographers gain a unique perspective on world affairs and environmental challenges, allowing them to influence policy and planning decisions that shape the future of communities and natural environments.
A bachelor's degree in geography or a related field is typically required, taking about 4 years of post-secondary education. Advanced positions, especially in research or academia, may require a master's degree or Ph.D.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
