How College Professors in New Jersey get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical New Jersey compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $103,000 | $78,300 | $133,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $128,000 | $97,300 | $166,400 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $147,200 | $111,900 | $191,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $176,600 | $134,200 | $229,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $200,100 | $152,100 | $260,100 |
Top occupations by median pay in New Jersey — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in New Jersey
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average College Professor salary in New Jersey is $147,200 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $111,900 and the 75th at $191,300.
Pay-wise, New Jersey sits +26% above the national College Professor median ($116,800). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior College Professors (10–14 years of experience) in New Jersey earn around $176,600 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $200,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), New Jersey ranks 5th for College Professor pay. The highest-paying state pays around $163,500 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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