Science & Research Mississippi (MS) Rank #50 of 50

Environmental Scientist Salary in Mississippi

The median environmental scientist salary in Mississippi is $63,520 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $76,530.

Median Salary
$63,520
vs National
$-13,010
State Rank
#50 of 50
Cost of Living
83%

Environmental Scientist Salary Overview in Mississippi (2026)

Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for environmental scientist compensation. Environmental Scientist salaries in Mississippi are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $63,520 per year, environmental scientists in Mississippi earn $13,010 less than the national median of $76,530.

A key advantage of working in Mississippi is its below-average cost of living (83% of the national index). This means the $63,520 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $76,530 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Mississippi is significant: environmental scientists at the 10th percentile earn $39,840, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $104,580 — a $64,740 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Mississippi for this role is Jackson, where the median reaches $65,051.

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 Mississippi by Experience

In Mississippi, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $41,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $99,600 per year. The cost of living index in Mississippi is 83% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$41,500
$-8,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$64,740
$-13,260 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$99,600
$-20,400 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Mississippi

Percentile MS Salary
10th Percentile $39,840
25th Percentile $48,970
Median (50th) $63,520
75th Percentile $82,170
90th Percentile $104,580

Environmental Scientist Salary by City in Mississippi

The largest employment areas for environmental scientists in Mississippi include Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, and Hattiesburg. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Mississippi

Education

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

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook in Mississippi

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in Mississippi

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in Mississippi? ▼
The median environmental scientist salary in Mississippi is $63,520 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $39,840 (10th percentile) to $104,580 (90th percentile).
How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in Mississippi? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $63,520, a environmental scientist in Mississippi earns approximately $31 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Mississippi a good state for environmental scientists? ▼
Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for environmental scientist pay. The cost of living index is 83% of the national average. Entry-level environmental scientists earn $41,500, while senior professionals earn $99,600.
How does Mississippi compare to other states for environmental scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for environmental scientists is Hawaii at $130,101. Mississippi's median of $63,520 ranks #50 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Arkansas ($64,285) and West Virginia ($64,285).
What is the entry-level environmental scientist salary in Mississippi? ▼
An entry-level environmental scientist in Mississippi earns approximately $41,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $64,740. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $99,600.
What city in Mississippi pays environmental scientists the most? ▼
Jackson is the highest paying city in Mississippi for environmental scientists, with a median salary of $65,051. Other cities include Gulfport and Southaven.