Environmental Scientist Salary in Independence, MO: $65,051 (2026)

Environmental Scientist Pay in Independence: What to Expect (2026)

Independence offers a median environmental scientist salary of $65,051, which is $2,295 below the Missouri state average of $67,346. Compared to the national median of $76,530, Independence pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Independence's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 85% of the national average. This means the $65,051 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $76,531 in an average-cost city. This makes Independence an attractive option for environmental scientists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for environmental scientists in Independence spans from $40,800 at the 10th percentile to $107,100 at the 90th percentile — a $66,300 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $42,500, while senior environmental scientists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $102,000. With a population of 123,011, Independence is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.

Environmental Scientist Salary in Independence by Experience

In Independence, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $42,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $102,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$42,500

$-7,500 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$66,300

$-11,700 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$102,000

$-18,000 vs national

Percentile	Independence	MO State	National
10th Percentile	$40,800	$42,240	$48,000
25th Percentile	$50,150	$51,920	$59,000
Median (50th)	$65,051	$67,346	$76,530
75th Percentile	$84,150	$87,120	$99,000
90th Percentile	$107,100	$110,880	$126,000

Percentile

Independence

10th Percentile

$40,800

25th Percentile

$50,150

Median (50th)

$65,051

75th Percentile

$84,150

90th Percentile

$107,100

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Independence

Education

Most environmental scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. Independence and the surrounding Missouri 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 Independence may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in Independence

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in Independence, MO? ▼

The median environmental scientist salary in Independence, Missouri is $65,051 per year, which is 15% below the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $40,800 (10th percentile) to $107,100 (90th percentile).

How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in Independence? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $65,051, a environmental scientist in Independence earns approximately $31 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Independence compare to the Missouri state average for environmental scientist pay? ▼

Independence's median environmental scientist salary of $65,051 is 3.4% below the Missouri state average of $67,346. The local cost of living index is 85% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Independence, MO? ▼

Independence has a cost of living index of 85% compared to the national average. This means a environmental scientist salary of $65,051 in Independence has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a environmental scientist in Independence? ▼

Most environmental scientist positions in Independence require a bachelor's degree. Key skills include Environmental Sampling, GIS, Data Analysis, Environmental Law. The job market is projected to grow 6% nationally over the next decade.

Environmental Scientist Salary in Independence, Missouri