Environmental Scientist Salary in Aberdeen, South Dakota
The median environmental scientist salary in Aberdeen, SD is $64,285 per year, which is 16% below the national median and 4.5% below the South Dakota state average.
Environmental Scientist Pay in Aberdeen: What to Expect (2026)
Aberdeen offers a median environmental scientist salary of $64,285, which is $3,061 below the South Dakota state average of $67,346. Compared to the national median of $76,530, Aberdeen pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Aberdeen's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 84% of the national average. This means the $64,285 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $76,530 in an average-cost city. This makes Aberdeen an attractive option for environmental scientists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for environmental scientists in Aberdeen spans from $40,320 at the 10th percentile to $105,840 at the 90th percentile — a $65,520 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $42,000, while senior environmental scientists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $100,800. Aberdeen is a smaller market (pop. 28,324), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Environmental Scientist Salary in Aberdeen by Experience
In Aberdeen, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $42,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $100,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 84% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Aberdeen, SD
| Percentile | Aberdeen |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $40,320 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,560 |
| Median (50th) | $64,285 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $105,840 |
Environmental Scientist Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Aberdeen
Education
Most environmental scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. Aberdeen and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, environmental scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Aberdeen may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Environmental Scientist Jobs in Aberdeen
Browse open environmental scientist positions in Aberdeen, SD: