Environmental Scientist Salary in Chattanooga, Tennessee
The median environmental scientist salary in Chattanooga, TN is $67,346 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.
Environmental Scientist Pay in Chattanooga: What to Expect (2026)
Chattanooga offers a median environmental scientist salary of $67,346, which is $766 below the Tennessee state average of $68,112. Compared to the national median of $76,530, Chattanooga pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Chattanooga's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $67,346 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $76,530 in an average-cost city. This makes Chattanooga an attractive option for environmental scientists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for environmental scientists in Chattanooga spans from $42,240 at the 10th percentile to $110,880 at the 90th percentile — a $68,640 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $44,000, while senior environmental scientists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $105,600. With a population of 181,099, Chattanooga is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Environmental Scientist Salary in Chattanooga by Experience
In Chattanooga, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $44,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chattanooga, TN
| Percentile | Chattanooga |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $42,240 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,920 |
| Median (50th) | $67,346 |
| 75th Percentile | $87,120 |
| 90th Percentile | $110,880 |
Environmental Scientist Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Chattanooga
Education
Most environmental scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. Chattanooga and the surrounding Tennessee 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 Chattanooga may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Environmental Scientist Jobs in Chattanooga
Browse open environmental scientist positions in Chattanooga, TN: