Science & Research Virginia (VA) Rank #14 of 50

Environmental Scientist Salary in Virginia

The median environmental scientist salary in Virginia is $79,591 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $76,530.

Median Salary
$79,591
vs National
+$3,061
State Rank
#14 of 50
Cost of Living
104%

Environmental Scientist Salary in Virginia by Experience

In Virginia, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $52,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $124,800 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$52,000
+$2,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$81,120
+$3,120 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$124,800
+$4,800 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Virginia

Percentile VA Salary
10th Percentile $49,920
25th Percentile $61,360
Median (50th) $79,591
75th Percentile $102,960
90th Percentile $131,040

Environmental Scientist Salary by City in Virginia

The largest employment areas for environmental scientists in Virginia include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, and Arlington. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Virginia Beach, VA
$78,061
Pop. 449,974 · COL 102%
Norfolk, VA
$73,469
Pop. 238,005 · COL 96%
Richmond, VA
$76,530
Pop. 226,610 · COL 100%
Arlington, VA
$101,020
Pop. 238,643 · COL 132%
Chesapeake, VA
$74,999
Pop. 249,422 · COL 98%

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Virginia

Education

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

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook in Virginia

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

Find Environmental Scientist Jobs in Virginia

Browse open environmental scientist positions in Virginia:

Indeed → LinkedIn → ZipRecruiter → Glassdoor →

Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in Virginia

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in Virginia? ▼
The median environmental scientist salary in Virginia is $79,591 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $49,920 (10th percentile) to $131,040 (90th percentile).
How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $79,591, a environmental scientist in Virginia earns approximately $38 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Virginia a good state for environmental scientists? ▼
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for environmental scientist pay. The cost of living index is 104% of the national average. Entry-level environmental scientists earn $52,000, while senior professionals earn $124,800.
How does Virginia compare to other states for environmental scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for environmental scientists is Hawaii at $130,101. Virginia's median of $79,591 ranks #14 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Hampshire ($80,357) and Rhode Island ($80,357).
What is the entry-level environmental scientist salary in Virginia? ▼
An entry-level environmental scientist in Virginia earns approximately $52,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $81,120. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $124,800.
What city in Virginia pays environmental scientists the most? ▼
Arlington is the highest paying city in Virginia for environmental scientists, with a median salary of $101,020. Other cities include Virginia Beach and Norfolk.