Forensic Psychologist salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Forensic Psychologist in United States is approximately 81,934 USD (81,779 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Forensic Psychologist do?

A forensic psychologist is a professional who applies the principles of psychology to the legal and criminal justice system. They primarily focus on understanding the behavior, motivations, and mental processes of individuals involved in legal cases. Their occupation involves conducting psychological assessments and evaluations, providing expert testimony in court, and offering treatment or counseling to individuals involved in the criminal justice system. Forensic psychologists work closely with law enforcement agencies, courts, correctional facilities, and other professionals in the legal field. They may be involved in assessing the competency and sanity of defendants, evaluating the risk of reoffending, conducting research on criminal behavior, and assisting in the selection of jurors. Their expertise also extends to areas such as criminal profiling, victimology, and rehabilitation.

Skills: forensic psychologist, criminal justice system, psychological assessment, expert testimony, legal cases, counseling.
Job industry: Healthcare

How much does Forensic Psychologist make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Forensic Psychologist a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Forensic Psychologist is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Forensic Psychologist?

High salary for Forensic Psychologist would be somewhere between 90,127 USD and 118,804 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Forensic Psychologist in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 81,934 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 6,828 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,576 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 39 USD per hour
By working as Forensic Psychologist a person can save up to 4,535 USD per month or 54,419 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Forensic Psychologist

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in United States

Data as of 2025

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