Science & Research South Dakota (SD) Rank #43 of 50

Environmental Scientist Salary in South Dakota

The median environmental scientist salary in South Dakota is $67,346 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $76,530.

Median Salary
$67,346
vs National
$-9,184
State Rank
#43 of 50
Cost of Living
88%

Environmental Scientist Salary in South Dakota by Experience

In South Dakota, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $44,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,600 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$44,000
$-6,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$68,640
$-9,360 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$105,600
$-14,400 vs national

Salary Percentiles in South Dakota

Percentile SD Salary
10th Percentile $42,240
25th Percentile $51,920
Median (50th) $67,346
75th Percentile $87,120
90th Percentile $110,880

Environmental Scientist Salary by City in South Dakota

The largest employment areas for environmental scientists in South Dakota include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, and Brookings. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Sioux Falls, SD
$70,408
Pop. 192,517 · COL 92%
Rapid City, SD
$68,877
Pop. 74,703 · COL 90%
Aberdeen, SD
$64,285
Pop. 28,324 · COL 84%
Brookings, SD
$65,816
Pop. 24,194 · COL 86%
Mitchell, SD
$62,755
Pop. 15,660 · COL 82%

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in South Dakota

Education

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

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook in South Dakota

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

Find Environmental Scientist Jobs in South Dakota

Browse open environmental scientist positions in South Dakota:

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Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in South Dakota

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in South Dakota? ▼
The median environmental scientist salary in South Dakota is $67,346 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $42,240 (10th percentile) to $110,880 (90th percentile).
How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in South Dakota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $67,346, a environmental scientist in South Dakota earns approximately $32 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is South Dakota a good state for environmental scientists? ▼
South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for environmental scientist pay. The cost of living index is 88% of the national average. Entry-level environmental scientists earn $44,000, while senior professionals earn $105,600.
How does South Dakota compare to other states for environmental scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for environmental scientists is Hawaii at $130,101. South Dakota's median of $67,346 ranks #43 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Tennessee ($68,112) and Missouri ($67,346).
What is the entry-level environmental scientist salary in South Dakota? ▼
An entry-level environmental scientist in South Dakota earns approximately $44,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $68,640. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $105,600.
What city in South Dakota pays environmental scientists the most? ▼
Sioux Falls is the highest paying city in South Dakota for environmental scientists, with a median salary of $70,408. Other cities include Rapid City and Aberdeen.