Science & Research Nebraska (NE) Rank #36 of 50

Environmental Scientist Salary in Nebraska

The median environmental scientist salary in Nebraska is $68,877 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $76,530.

Median Salary
$68,877
vs National
$-7,653
State Rank
#36 of 50
Cost of Living
90%

Environmental Scientist Salary Overview in Nebraska (2026)

Nebraska ranks #36 out of 50 states for environmental scientist compensation. Environmental Scientist salaries in Nebraska are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $68,877 per year, environmental scientists in Nebraska earn $7,653 less than the national median of $76,530.

A key advantage of working in Nebraska is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $68,877 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $76,530 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Nebraska is significant: environmental scientists at the 10th percentile earn $43,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $113,400 — a $70,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Nebraska for this role is Omaha, where the median reaches $71,173.

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 Nebraska by Experience

In Nebraska, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $45,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $108,000 per year. The cost of living index in Nebraska is 90% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$45,000
$-5,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$70,200
$-7,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$108,000
$-12,000 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Nebraska

Percentile NE Salary
10th Percentile $43,200
25th Percentile $53,100
Median (50th) $68,877
75th Percentile $89,100
90th Percentile $113,400

Environmental Scientist Salary by City in Nebraska

The largest employment areas for environmental scientists in Nebraska include Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, and Grand Island. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Nebraska

Education

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

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook in Nebraska

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in Nebraska

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in Nebraska? ▼
The median environmental scientist salary in Nebraska is $68,877 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $43,200 (10th percentile) to $113,400 (90th percentile).
How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in Nebraska? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $68,877, a environmental scientist in Nebraska earns approximately $33 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Nebraska a good state for environmental scientists? ▼
Nebraska ranks #36 out of 50 states for environmental scientist pay. The cost of living index is 90% of the national average. Entry-level environmental scientists earn $45,000, while senior professionals earn $108,000.
How does Nebraska compare to other states for environmental scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for environmental scientists is Hawaii at $130,101. Nebraska's median of $68,877 ranks #36 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Indiana ($68,877) and Michigan ($68,877).
What is the entry-level environmental scientist salary in Nebraska? ▼
An entry-level environmental scientist in Nebraska earns approximately $45,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $70,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $108,000.
What city in Nebraska pays environmental scientists the most? ▼
Omaha is the highest paying city in Nebraska for environmental scientists, with a median salary of $71,173. Other cities include Lincoln and Bellevue.