Environmental Scientist Salary in Mitchell, South Dakota
The median environmental scientist salary in Mitchell, SD is $62,755 per year, which is 18% below the national median and 6.8% below the South Dakota state average.
Environmental Scientist Pay in Mitchell: What to Expect (2026)
Mitchell offers a median environmental scientist salary of $62,755, which is $4,591 below the South Dakota state average of $67,346. Compared to the national median of $76,530, Mitchell pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Mitchell's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 82% of the national average. This means the $62,755 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $76,530 in an average-cost city. This makes Mitchell an attractive option for environmental scientists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for environmental scientists in Mitchell spans from $39,360 at the 10th percentile to $103,320 at the 90th percentile — a $63,960 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $41,000, while senior environmental scientists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $98,400. Mitchell is a smaller market (pop. 15,660), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Environmental Scientist Salary in Mitchell by Experience
In Mitchell, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $41,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $98,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 82% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Mitchell, SD
| Percentile | Mitchell |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $39,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,380 |
| Median (50th) | $62,755 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,180 |
| 90th Percentile | $103,320 |
Environmental Scientist Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Mitchell
Education
Most environmental scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. Mitchell 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 Mitchell may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Environmental Scientist Jobs in Mitchell
Browse open environmental scientist positions in Mitchell, SD: