Science & Research California (CA) Rank #2 of 50

Environmental Scientist Salary in California

The median environmental scientist salary in California is $105,611 per year, which is 38.0% above the national median of $76,530.

Median Salary
$105,611
vs National
+$29,081
State Rank
#2 of 50
Cost of Living
138%

Environmental Scientist Salary in California by Experience

In California, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $69,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $165,600 per year. The cost of living index in California is 138% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$69,000
+$19,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$107,640
+$29,640 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$165,600
+$45,600 vs national

Salary Percentiles in California

Percentile CA Salary
10th Percentile $66,240
25th Percentile $81,420
Median (50th) $105,611
75th Percentile $136,620
90th Percentile $173,880

Environmental Scientist Salary by City in California

The largest employment areas for environmental scientists in California include Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and San Jose. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Los Angeles, CA
$111,734
Pop. 3,898,747 · COL 146%
San Francisco, CA
$139,285
Pop. 873,965 · COL 182%
San Diego, CA
$108,673
Pop. 1,386,932 · COL 142%
San Jose, CA
$128,570
Pop. 1,013,240 · COL 168%
Sacramento, CA
$90,305
Pop. 524,943 · COL 118%

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in California

Education

Most environmental scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. California has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook in California

Nationally, environmental scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). California's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Find Environmental Scientist Jobs in California

Browse open environmental scientist positions in California:

Indeed → LinkedIn → ZipRecruiter → Glassdoor →

Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in California

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in California? ▼
The median environmental scientist salary in California is $105,611 per year, which is 38.0% above the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $66,240 (10th percentile) to $173,880 (90th percentile).
How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in California? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $105,611, a environmental scientist in California earns approximately $51 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is California a good state for environmental scientists? ▼
California ranks #2 out of 50 states for environmental scientist pay. The cost of living index is 138% of the national average. Entry-level environmental scientists earn $69,000, while senior professionals earn $165,600.
How does California compare to other states for environmental scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for environmental scientists is Hawaii at $130,101. California's median of $105,611 ranks #2 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($130,101) and Massachusetts ($103,316).
What is the entry-level environmental scientist salary in California? ▼
An entry-level environmental scientist in California earns approximately $69,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $107,640. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $165,600.
What city in California pays environmental scientists the most? ▼
San Francisco is the highest paying city in California for environmental scientists, with a median salary of $139,285. Other cities include Los Angeles and San Diego.