Science & Research Idaho (ID) Rank #26 of 50

Environmental Scientist Salary in Idaho

The median environmental scientist salary in Idaho is $71,938 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $76,530.

Median Salary
$71,938
vs National
$-4,592
State Rank
#26 of 50
Cost of Living
94%

Environmental Scientist Salary Overview in Idaho (2026)

Idaho ranks #26 out of 50 states for environmental scientist compensation. Environmental Scientist salaries in Idaho are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $71,938 per year, environmental scientists in Idaho earn $4,592 less than the national median of $76,530.

A key advantage of working in Idaho is its below-average cost of living (94% of the national index). This means the $71,938 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $76,530 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Idaho is significant: environmental scientists at the 10th percentile earn $45,120, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $118,440 — a $73,320 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Idaho for this role is Boise, where the median reaches $76,530.

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 Idaho by Experience

In Idaho, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $47,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $112,800 per year. The cost of living index in Idaho is 94% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$47,000
$-3,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$73,320
$-4,680 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$112,800
$-7,200 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $71,938 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in Idaho

Percentile ID Salary
10th Percentile $45,120
25th Percentile $55,460
Median (50th) $71,938
75th Percentile $93,060
90th Percentile $118,440

Environmental Scientist Salary by City in Idaho

The largest employment areas for environmental scientists in Idaho include Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Idaho Falls. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Idaho

Education

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

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook in Idaho

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

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Environmental Scientists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $40,862 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Environmental Scientist Roles in Idaho?

Get matched with recruiters hiring environmental scientists in Idaho at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in Idaho

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in Idaho? ▼
The median environmental scientist salary in Idaho is $71,938 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $45,120 (10th percentile) to $118,440 (90th percentile).
How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in Idaho? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $71,938, a environmental scientist in Idaho earns approximately $35 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Idaho a good state for environmental scientists? ▼
Idaho ranks #26 out of 50 states for environmental scientist pay. The cost of living index is 94% of the national average. Entry-level environmental scientists earn $47,000, while senior professionals earn $112,800.
How does Idaho compare to other states for environmental scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for environmental scientists is Hawaii at $130,101. Idaho's median of $71,938 ranks #26 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Illinois ($72,704) and Montana ($72,704).
What is the entry-level environmental scientist salary in Idaho? ▼
An entry-level environmental scientist in Idaho earns approximately $47,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $73,320. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $112,800.
What city in Idaho pays environmental scientists the most? ▼
Boise is the highest paying city in Idaho for environmental scientists, with a median salary of $76,530. Other cities include Meridian and Nampa.