Science & Research Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Environmental Scientist Salary in Massachusetts

The median environmental scientist salary in Massachusetts is $103,316 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $76,530.

Median Salary
$103,316
vs National
+$26,786
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Environmental Scientist Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for environmental scientist compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for environmental scientists seeking high pay. At $103,316 per year, environmental scientists in Massachusetts earn $26,786 more than the national median of $76,530.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $103,316 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $76,530.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: environmental scientists at the 10th percentile earn $64,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $170,100 — a $105,300 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Massachusetts for this role is Cambridge, where the median reaches $122,448.

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 Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $67,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $162,000 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$67,500
+$17,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$105,300
+$27,300 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$162,000
+$42,000 vs national

You May Qualify for Premium Rewards

Professionals earning $103,316+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.

View Offers You Qualify For →

Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $64,800
25th Percentile $79,650
Median (50th) $103,316
75th Percentile $133,650
90th Percentile $170,100

Environmental Scientist Salary by City in Massachusetts

The largest employment areas for environmental scientists in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Massachusetts

Education

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

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

Nationally, environmental scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Massachusetts'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 $58,684 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Environmental Scientist Roles in Massachusetts?

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

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median environmental scientist salary in Massachusetts is $103,316 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $64,800 (10th percentile) to $170,100 (90th percentile).
How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $103,316, a environmental scientist in Massachusetts earns approximately $50 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for environmental scientists? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for environmental scientist pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level environmental scientists earn $67,500, while senior professionals earn $162,000.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for environmental scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for environmental scientists is Hawaii at $130,101. Massachusetts's median of $103,316 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($130,101) and California ($105,611).
What is the entry-level environmental scientist salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level environmental scientist in Massachusetts earns approximately $67,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $105,300. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $162,000.
What city in Massachusetts pays environmental scientists the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for environmental scientists, with a median salary of $122,448. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.