For those passionate about the past and eager to share that knowledge in academic settings, becoming a history professor is a rewarding career. As of 2025, salaries for history professors are showing steady growth, reflecting broader trends in higher education. This article breaks down the average salary, key influencing factors, job outlook, and qualifications needed to maximize earnings in this field.
Average Salary for History Professors in 2025
In 2025, the average salary for a history professor in the United States is approximately $85,000 to $95,000 annually. However, this range can vary significantly based on experience, institution type, geographic location, and level of education.
Entry-level (0–3 years of experience): $60,000 – $72,000
Mid-level (4–9 years): $80,000 – $95,000
Senior-level (10+ years): $100,000 – $130,000+
Tenured Professors or Department Heads: $110,000 – $160,000
Professors at prestigious universities or in administrative roles may exceed these figures.
Factors Influencing a History Professor’s Salary
Several variables can influence the earnings of a history professor:
1. Institution Type
Public universities often offer stable, union-supported pay.
Private colleges may offer higher salaries but with varying benefits.
Community colleges usually pay less than four-year institutions.
2. Geographic Location
States with high costs of living—like California, New York, and Massachusetts—typically offer higher salaries.
3. Education and Certifications
A Ph.D. in History is typically required.
Additional qualifications (e.g., published research, fellowships, or administrative roles) can increase salary potential.
Online teaching certifications can also enhance employability in hybrid or remote learning environments.
4. Experience and Tenure
Years of teaching, research, and contributions to the academic community can lead to tenure, which usually comes with a significant pay raise and job security.
Salary Comparison: Related Academic Roles
For reference, here are average salaries of similar roles in 2025:
Sociology Professor: $89,000
Political Science Professor: $97,000
Art History Professor: $83,000
English Literature Professor: $87,000
These comparisons can help gauge where history professors stand relative to other humanities positions.
Job Market Trends for History Professors
Growth Outlook
According to recent trends, the demand for history professors is stable but competitive, especially in tenure-track roles. While enrollment in humanities has seen a slight decline, interest in global studies, cultural history, and interdisciplinary programs is growing.
Remote and Adjunct Positions
The rise in online education has led to an increase in part-time and adjunct opportunities. Though typically lower-paying, these roles offer flexibility and a foot in the academic door.
Benefits and Perks
Most full-time history professors enjoy a range of benefits:
Health and dental insurance
Retirement plans (e.g., 403(b))
Sabbaticals for research
Tuition reimbursement or discounts for family members
Conference and research grants
Boosting Your Salary: Tips for History Professors
To maximize your earnings in this field:
Pursue tenure-track positions or move into administrative roles such as department chair.
Publish regularly in respected journals or publish books.
Teach summer or online courses for additional income.
Stay updated with continuing education or certifications in digital humanities or pedagogy.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, a history professor’s salary is shaped by many interrelated factors, including experience, institutional prestige, and geographic location. While not the highest-paying role in academia, the position offers rich intellectual rewards, job stability (especially with tenure), and the chance to influence the next generation of critical thinkers.
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