Environmental Scientist Salary in Boulder, Colorado
The median environmental scientist salary in Boulder, CO is $97,958 per year, which is 28.0% above the national median and 21.9% above the Colorado state average.
Environmental Scientist Pay in Boulder: What to Expect (2026)
Boulder offers a median environmental scientist salary of $97,958, which is $17,601 above the Colorado state average of $80,357. Compared to the national median of $76,530, Boulder pays above average for this role.
However, Boulder's cost of living index is 128%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $97,958 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $76,530. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Boulder should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for environmental scientists in Boulder spans from $61,440 at the 10th percentile to $161,280 at the 90th percentile — a $99,840 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $64,000, while senior environmental scientists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $153,600. With a population of 105,673, Boulder is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Environmental Scientist Salary in Boulder by Experience
In Boulder, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $64,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $153,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 128% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Boulder, CO
| Percentile | Boulder |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $61,440 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,520 |
| Median (50th) | $97,958 |
| 75th Percentile | $126,720 |
| 90th Percentile | $161,280 |
Environmental Scientist Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Boulder
Education
Most environmental scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. Boulder and the surrounding Colorado area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, environmental scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Boulder may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Environmental Scientist Jobs in Boulder
Browse open environmental scientist positions in Boulder, CO: