Science & Research Delaware (DE) Rank #15 of 50

Environmental Scientist Salary in Delaware

The median environmental scientist salary in Delaware is $77,295 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $76,530.

Median Salary
$77,295
vs National
+$765
State Rank
#15 of 50
Cost of Living
101%

Environmental Scientist Salary Overview in Delaware (2026)

Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for environmental scientist compensation. Delaware falls in the middle of the pack for environmental scientist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $77,295 per year, environmental scientists in Delaware earn $765 more than the national median of $76,530.

Delaware's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning environmental scientist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Delaware is significant: environmental scientists at the 10th percentile earn $48,480, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $127,260 — a $78,780 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Delaware for this role is Wilmington, where the median reaches $80,357.

Nationally, environmental scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for environmental scientists across the country.

Environmental Scientist Salary in Delaware by Experience

In Delaware, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $50,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $121,200 per year. The cost of living index in Delaware is 101% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$50,500
+$500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$78,780
+$780 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$121,200
+$1,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Delaware

Percentile DE Salary
10th Percentile $48,480
25th Percentile $59,590
Median (50th) $77,295
75th Percentile $99,990
90th Percentile $127,260

Environmental Scientist Salary by City in Delaware

The largest employment areas for environmental scientists in Delaware include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Middletown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Wilmington, DE
$80,357
Pop. 70,898 · COL 105%
Dover, DE
$73,469
Pop. 39,403 · COL 96%
Newark, DE
$78,061
Pop. 33,398 · COL 102%
Middletown, DE
$74,999
Pop. 22,350 · COL 98%
Bear, DE
$75,765
Pop. 21,000 · COL 99%

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Delaware

Education

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

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook in Delaware

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

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Data shows Environmental Scientists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $43,905 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in Delaware

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in Delaware? ▼
The median environmental scientist salary in Delaware is $77,295 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $48,480 (10th percentile) to $127,260 (90th percentile).
How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in Delaware? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $77,295, a environmental scientist in Delaware earns approximately $37 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Delaware a good state for environmental scientists? ▼
Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for environmental scientist pay. The cost of living index is 101% of the national average. Entry-level environmental scientists earn $50,500, while senior professionals earn $121,200.
How does Delaware compare to other states for environmental scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for environmental scientists is Hawaii at $130,101. Delaware's median of $77,295 ranks #15 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Rhode Island ($80,357) and Virginia ($79,591).
What is the entry-level environmental scientist salary in Delaware? ▼
An entry-level environmental scientist in Delaware earns approximately $50,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $78,780. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $121,200.
What city in Delaware pays environmental scientists the most? ▼
Wilmington is the highest paying city in Delaware for environmental scientists, with a median salary of $80,357. Other cities include Dover and Newark.