Science & Research Columbia, MD Pop. 104,681

Environmental Scientist Salary in Columbia, Maryland

The median environmental scientist salary in Columbia, MD is $90,305 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 7.3% above the Maryland state average.

City Median
$90,305
vs State Avg
+$6,122
vs National
+$13,775
Cost of Living
118%

Environmental Scientist Salary in Columbia by Experience

In Columbia, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $59,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $141,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$59,000
+$9,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$92,040
+$14,040 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$141,600
+$21,600 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MD

Percentile Columbia
10th Percentile $56,640
25th Percentile $69,620
Median (50th) $90,305
75th Percentile $116,820
90th Percentile $148,680

Environmental Scientist Salary in Other Maryland Cities

Silver Spring, MD
$93,367
Pop. 81,015
Germantown, MD
$88,010
Pop. 90,676
Baltimore, MD
$82,652
Pop. 585,708
Waldorf, MD
$80,357
Pop. 77,000

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Columbia

Education

Most environmental scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. Columbia and the surrounding Maryland area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook

Nationally, environmental scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.