Science & Research Maryland (MD) Rank #9 of 50

Environmental Scientist Salary in Maryland

The median environmental scientist salary in Maryland is $84,183 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $76,530.

Median Salary
$84,183
vs National
+$7,653
State Rank
#9 of 50
Cost of Living
110%

Environmental Scientist Salary Overview in Maryland (2026)

Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for environmental scientist compensation. This places Maryland in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for environmental scientists seeking high pay. At $84,183 per year, environmental scientists in Maryland earn $7,653 more than the national median of $76,530.

It's worth noting that Maryland's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $84,183 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $76,530.

The salary spread in Maryland is significant: environmental scientists at the 10th percentile earn $52,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $138,600 — a $85,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Maryland for this role is Silver Spring, where the median reaches $93,367.

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 Maryland by Experience

In Maryland, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $55,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $132,000 per year. The cost of living index in Maryland is 110% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$55,000
+$5,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$85,800
+$7,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$132,000
+$12,000 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Maryland

Percentile MD Salary
10th Percentile $52,800
25th Percentile $64,900
Median (50th) $84,183
75th Percentile $108,900
90th Percentile $138,600

Environmental Scientist Salary by City in Maryland

The largest employment areas for environmental scientists in Maryland include Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, and Germantown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Maryland

Education

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

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook in Maryland

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in Maryland

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in Maryland? ▼
The median environmental scientist salary in Maryland is $84,183 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $52,800 (10th percentile) to $138,600 (90th percentile).
How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in Maryland? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $84,183, a environmental scientist in Maryland earns approximately $40 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Maryland a good state for environmental scientists? ▼
Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for environmental scientist pay. The cost of living index is 110% of the national average. Entry-level environmental scientists earn $55,000, while senior professionals earn $132,000.
How does Maryland compare to other states for environmental scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for environmental scientists is Hawaii at $130,101. Maryland's median of $84,183 ranks #9 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Washington ($88,010) and Connecticut ($85,714).
What is the entry-level environmental scientist salary in Maryland? ▼
An entry-level environmental scientist in Maryland earns approximately $55,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $85,800. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $132,000.
What city in Maryland pays environmental scientists the most? ▼
Silver Spring is the highest paying city in Maryland for environmental scientists, with a median salary of $93,367. Other cities include Baltimore and Columbia.