SalariesEnvironmental scientists and specialists

Environmental scientists and specialists Salary in the United States

Median pay, percentile range, and top US metros — official BLS data.

The median salary for Environmental scientists and specialists in the United States is $82,220 per year — about $40 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Half of all workers in this occupation earn between $64,490 and $107,970 a year.

Median annual salary
$82,220
~$40/hr · ~$6,852/mo
Total US jobs
90K
As fast as average
Education
Bachelor's degree
Growth: +4%

Salary range

10th %ile
$52,520
25th %ile
$64,490
Median
$82,220
75th %ile
$107,970
90th %ile
$140,010

Top US metros for Environmental scientists and specialists

MetroLocal salary
Kennewick-Richland, WA$129,110
Monroe, MI$114,160
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA$127,210
Springfield, MA$103,930
Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX$96,100
Battle Creek, MI$91,560
Columbus, GA-AL$92,170
Redding, CA$106,510
Springfield, IL$93,590
Yuba City, CA$106,510

Frequently asked questions

How much do Environmental scientists and specialists make in the US?

The median salary is $82,220 per year (about $40 per hour), according to BLS data. The middle 50% of workers earn between $64,490 and $107,970 a year.

How much do Environmental scientists and specialists make per hour?

About $40 per hour, based on the median annual salary of $82,220 for full-time work (2,080 hours per year).

What education do you need to work as Environmental scientists and specialists?

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do these salary figures include bonuses or overtime?

No. BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics reflect base wages only — they exclude overtime pay, bonuses, and most benefits.

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Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. (May 2025 OEWS.)