Science & Research Louisiana (LA) Rank #33 of 50

Environmental Scientist Salary in Louisiana

The median environmental scientist salary in Louisiana is $69,642 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $76,530.

Median Salary
$69,642
vs National
$-6,888
State Rank
#33 of 50
Cost of Living
91%

Environmental Scientist Salary Overview in Louisiana (2026)

Louisiana ranks #33 out of 50 states for environmental scientist compensation. Environmental Scientist salaries in Louisiana are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $69,642 per year, environmental scientists in Louisiana earn $6,888 less than the national median of $76,530.

A key advantage of working in Louisiana is its below-average cost of living (91% of the national index). This means the $69,642 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $76,530 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Louisiana is significant: environmental scientists at the 10th percentile earn $43,680, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $114,660 — a $70,980 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Louisiana for this role is New Orleans, where the median reaches $74,999.

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 Louisiana by Experience

In Louisiana, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $45,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $109,200 per year. The cost of living index in Louisiana is 91% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$45,500
$-4,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$70,980
$-7,020 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$109,200
$-10,800 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Louisiana

Percentile LA Salary
10th Percentile $43,680
25th Percentile $53,690
Median (50th) $69,642
75th Percentile $90,090
90th Percentile $114,660

Environmental Scientist Salary by City in Louisiana

The largest employment areas for environmental scientists in Louisiana include New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Lafayette. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

New Orleans, LA
$74,999
Pop. 383,997 · COL 98%
Baton Rouge, LA
$70,408
Pop. 227,470 · COL 92%
Shreveport, LA
$65,051
Pop. 187,593 · COL 85%
Lafayette, LA
$67,346
Pop. 121,374 · COL 88%
Lake Charles, LA
$65,816
Pop. 80,000 · COL 86%

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Louisiana

Education

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

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook in Louisiana

Nationally, environmental scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Louisiana'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 $39,558 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in Louisiana

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in Louisiana? ▼
The median environmental scientist salary in Louisiana is $69,642 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $43,680 (10th percentile) to $114,660 (90th percentile).
How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in Louisiana? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $69,642, a environmental scientist in Louisiana earns approximately $33 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Louisiana a good state for environmental scientists? ▼
Louisiana ranks #33 out of 50 states for environmental scientist pay. The cost of living index is 91% of the national average. Entry-level environmental scientists earn $45,500, while senior professionals earn $109,200.
How does Louisiana compare to other states for environmental scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for environmental scientists is Hawaii at $130,101. Louisiana's median of $69,642 ranks #33 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Wisconsin ($70,408) and Wyoming ($70,408).
What is the entry-level environmental scientist salary in Louisiana? ▼
An entry-level environmental scientist in Louisiana earns approximately $45,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $70,980. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $109,200.
What city in Louisiana pays environmental scientists the most? ▼
New Orleans is the highest paying city in Louisiana for environmental scientists, with a median salary of $74,999. Other cities include Baton Rouge and Shreveport.