The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is one of the most important public health agencies in the United States. Epidemiologists at the CDC play a vital role in protecting Americans from disease outbreaks, pandemics, and health risks. In 2025, understanding the salary and benefits of a CDC epidemiologist is very important for people considering a career in public health or comparing government health salaries to private sector pay.
This article provides a complete guide to the CDC epidemiologist monthly and annual salary in the USA (2025). It covers:
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Detailed salary tables by grade and step.
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Explanation of how the CDC salary structure works.
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Benefits and allowances available to epidemiologists.
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Salary comparisons with other federal agencies and private sector epidemiologists.
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Career growth opportunities and promotion paths.
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Frequently asked questions about salary, taxation, and benefits.
By the end of this article, you will have a full picture of what a CDC epidemiologist earns, how the salary is structured, and the long-term financial outlook for this career.
CDC Epidemiologist Salary Structure Overview (2025)
CDC epidemiologists are federal employees, and their salaries are determined by the General Schedule (GS) pay scale. The GS system has 15 grades (GS-1 to GS-15), with each grade divided into 10 steps. The grade and step depend on education, years of experience, and performance.
In 2025, most CDC epidemiologists fall within the GS-11 to GS-15 range. Entry-level positions usually start at GS-11, while senior and supervisory roles are GS-14 or GS-15.
Average CDC Epidemiologist Salary (2025)
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Monthly Salary: $6,200 – $13,500
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Annual Salary: $74,000 – $162,000
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Median Salary: About $102,500 per year
These figures can vary depending on location (because of locality pay), years of service, and level of responsibility.
CDC Epidemiologist Salary Table by Grade (2025)
The table below shows the approximate monthly and annual salaries for epidemiologists at different GS grades. Salaries include base pay + average locality adjustment (using Washington D.C. as a reference).
| GS Grade | Step 1 Monthly ($) | Step 1 Annual ($) | Step 10 Monthly ($) | Step 10 Annual ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | 6,200 | 74,400 | 8,050 | 96,600 |
| GS-12 | 7,350 | 88,200 | 9,550 | 114,600 |
| GS-13 | 8,700 | 104,400 | 11,250 | 135,000 |
| GS-14 | 10,250 | 123,000 | 12,950 | 155,400 |
| GS-15 | 11,250 | 135,000 | 13,500 | 162,000 |
Note: Salaries differ by location due to locality pay. Epidemiologists in higher-cost cities such as San Francisco, New York, or Washington D.C. earn more than those in lower-cost areas.
How CDC Salary Structure Works
To fully understand the CDC epidemiologist monthly and annual salary, it’s important to know how the GS system works:
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GS Grades: Determined by job responsibility and qualifications.
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GS-11: Entry-level epidemiologist with a master’s degree (MPH).
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GS-12 to GS-13: Mid-level roles requiring more experience.
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GS-14 to GS-15: Supervisory and leadership positions.
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Steps within Each Grade: Pay increases within a grade are based on performance and years of service.
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Locality Pay: Salaries are adjusted based on the cost of living in different U.S. regions.
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Promotions: Moving from GS-11 to GS-12 or GS-13 can significantly increase salary.
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Overtime & Hazard Pay: While not common, epidemiologists responding to emergencies (such as COVID-19 outbreaks) may receive additional pay.
Monthly and Annual Salary by Experience Level
Entry-Level Epidemiologist (GS-11)
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Monthly Salary: $6,200 – $7,800
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Annual Salary: $74,000 – $94,000
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Usually requires a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree.
Mid-Level Epidemiologist (GS-12/GS-13)
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Monthly Salary: $7,300 – $11,200
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Annual Salary: $88,000 – $134,000
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Requires several years of experience or specialized training.
Senior/Lead Epidemiologist (GS-14/GS-15)
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Monthly Salary: $10,200 – $13,500
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Annual Salary: $123,000 – $162,000
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Supervisory role, often leading major projects or divisions.
Allowances and Benefits for CDC Epidemiologists
Besides the base salary, CDC epidemiologists enjoy a wide range of federal employee benefits. These significantly add to the value of the job.
Main Benefits
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Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
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Retirement Plan: Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
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Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): Similar to a 401(k), with government contributions.
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Paid Leave: 13–26 vacation days per year + 11 federal holidays.
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Sick Leave: Unlimited accumulation.
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Flexible Work Schedules: Telework and flexible hours.
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Training & Education Support: Opportunities for career development.
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Job Security: Federal employment offers high stability.
Additional Allowances
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Relocation Benefits: Sometimes offered for hard-to-fill positions.
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Hazard Pay: For field assignments involving health risks.
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Student Loan Repayment Programs: For qualifying employees.
Salary Comparison: CDC vs. Other Agencies
How does a CDC epidemiologist’s salary compare with other health-related federal jobs?
| Agency/Role | Average Annual Salary (2025) |
|---|---|
| CDC Epidemiologist | $74,000 – $162,000 |
| NIH Research Scientist | $80,000 – $150,000 |
| FDA Health Scientist | $78,000 – $140,000 |
| State Public Health Epidemiologist | $65,000 – $110,000 |
| Private Sector Epidemiologist | $85,000 – $170,000 |
From the table, it is clear that CDC epidemiologists earn competitive salaries, especially when benefits are considered.
Factors Influencing CDC Epidemiologist Salary in 2025
Several factors determine an epidemiologist’s salary at the CDC:
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Education: MPH, PhD, or MD increases salary opportunities.
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Experience: More years of service = higher grade and step.
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Location: Salaries are higher in cities with higher living costs.
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Specialization: Infectious disease specialists often earn more.
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Emergency Assignments: Fieldwork during outbreaks may include extra compensation.
Career Progression for CDC Epidemiologists
Career growth is an important part of the job:
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Entry-Level (GS-11): MPH graduates start here.
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Mid-Career (GS-12/13): After 3–5 years, promotion to higher grades.
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Senior Level (GS-14/15): Leadership and supervisory roles.
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Executive Positions: Some epidemiologists move into SES (Senior Executive Service) roles, with salaries exceeding $190,000 annually.
FAQs: CDC Epidemiologist Salary and Benefits (2025)
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What is the starting salary of a CDC epidemiologist?
Around $74,000 annually for GS-11, Step 1. -
How much does a senior CDC epidemiologist earn?
Between $123,000 and $162,000 annually. -
Do CDC epidemiologists get locality pay?
Yes, salaries vary by location based on cost of living. -
Is overtime pay available?
Only in emergency response situations. -
Are CDC salaries higher than state public health salaries?
Yes, federal salaries are usually higher with better benefits. -
Can CDC epidemiologists work remotely?
Yes, many positions allow telework. -
Do they get student loan forgiveness?
Yes, under Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). -
What benefits do CDC epidemiologists enjoy?
Health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and more. -
What degree is required to work as a CDC epidemiologist?
At least a Master of Public Health (MPH). -
Is this a secure career?
Yes, federal employment offers strong job stability.
Conclusion
The role of a CDC epidemiologist in 2025 is both rewarding and financially competitive. With a monthly salary between $6,200 and $13,500 and an annual salary ranging from $74,000 to $162,000, plus comprehensive benefits, CDC offers one of the best public health career opportunities in the USA.
For those passionate about public health and disease prevention, working as an epidemiologist at the CDC provides not only a stable income but also the chance to make a real difference in protecting lives.