Geology Degree in New York City, NY — Salary & ROI 2026

Geology in New York City, NY Overview

New York City is one of New York's top college towns, with 49 institutions and a student population of 741,375. Public tuition averages $7,340/year here — well below the national average, making it a cost-effective choice. Geology enrollment is stable nationwide, with steady demand for graduates skilled in Mineralogy and GIS. The adjusted starting salary in New York City is approximately $83,000, growing to $136,120 by mid-career.

Geology Salary in New York City (COL-Adjusted)

Salaries adjusted for New York City's cost of living index of 166 (national average = 100).

Geology ROI Calculator for New York City

Estimate your return on investment for a Geology degree using local New York City tuition and cost of living data.

Student Loan Payoff for Geology in New York City

Colleges in New York City for Geology

Community Colleges (2-Year Transfer)

Top Employers for Geology in New York City

New York City offers opportunities in Tech companies, Research labs, Government agencies for Geology graduates. National top employers in this field include:

Key New York City Hiring Sectors for STEM

Common Geology Job Titles

Geology in Nearby New York Cities

Other STEM Majors in New York City

Methodology & Education Data Sources

How we calculate Geology degree outcomes in New York City, NY: Our salary projections, ROI estimates, and tuition data combine multiple federal datasets to provide a localized view of education economics. We use a 10-year career-trajectory model standard in higher education research.

1. Tuition data sourced from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), the federal education statistics database operated by NCES. Average tuition for Geology programs reflects 4-year public/private weighted averages for New York.
2. Career salary projections based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, with cost-of-living adjustments for New York City using regional CPI data.
3. 10-year ROI calculates: (Total Career Earnings With Degree) − (Total Career Earnings Without Degree) − (Total Education Cost Including Interest on Loans).
4. Job market outlook for Geology graduates uses BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook 10-year projections (2024-2034 base period).
5. Default rates and loan data sourced from College Scorecard (US Department of Education), which tracks repayment outcomes by institution.

Authoritative US education data sources:

• IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data — official federal college data
• College Scorecard (US Dept of Education) — earnings, debt, completion rates
• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Geology career projections
• Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — official US student loan and grant info
• NCES Digest of Education Statistics — comprehensive education data
• BLS Occupational Employment and Wages — entry-level salary data for Geology grads

Education Disclaimer: Salary and ROI estimates are projections based on national and state-level averages. Individual outcomes depend on institution prestige, GPA, internships, location, network, and economic conditions. Always verify current tuition with the institution directly, and consult a financial aid counselor before taking on student loans. Use the Federal Loan Simulator to model repayment scenarios.

Reviewed by Brazora Monk · Last updated 2026 · IPEDS & BLS data current as of latest annual release

Financial Aid Resources for New York City Students

Beyond federal aid (FAFSA), New York students have access to state-specific grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. The 2026-27 FAFSA also added a new Low Earnings Indicator (Dec 2025) flagging programs where graduates earn less than non-college peers — check your target school's status:

2026-27 FAFSA tip: The new Low Earnings Indicator flags programs where graduates earn less than non-graduates. Check this before enrolling. Speak with a NASFAA-credentialed financial aid counselor at your target school.

Geology Degree in New York City — FAQ