Environmental Scientist Salary in Owensboro, Kentucky
The median environmental scientist salary in Owensboro, KY is $62,755 per year, which is 18% below the national median and 5.7% below the Kentucky state average.
Environmental Scientist Pay in Owensboro: What to Expect (2026)
Owensboro offers a median environmental scientist salary of $62,755, which is $3,826 below the Kentucky state average of $66,581. Compared to the national median of $76,530, Owensboro pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Owensboro's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 82% of the national average. This means the $62,755 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $76,530 in an average-cost city. This makes Owensboro an attractive option for environmental scientists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for environmental scientists in Owensboro spans from $39,360 at the 10th percentile to $103,320 at the 90th percentile — a $63,960 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $41,000, while senior environmental scientists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $98,400. Owensboro is a smaller market (pop. 60,183), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Environmental Scientist Salary in Owensboro by Experience
In Owensboro, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $41,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $98,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 82% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Owensboro, KY
| Percentile | Owensboro |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $39,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,380 |
| Median (50th) | $62,755 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,180 |
| 90th Percentile | $103,320 |
Environmental Scientist Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Owensboro
Education
Most environmental scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. Owensboro and the surrounding Kentucky 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 Owensboro may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Environmental Scientist Jobs in Owensboro
Browse open environmental scientist positions in Owensboro, KY: