Environmental Scientist Salary in Wheeling, WV: $59,693 (2026)

Environmental Scientist Pay in Wheeling: What to Expect (2026)

Wheeling offers a median environmental scientist salary of $59,693, which is $4,592 below the West Virginia state average of $64,285. Compared to the national median of $76,530, Wheeling pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Wheeling's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 78% of the national average. This means the $59,693 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $76,529 in an average-cost city. This makes Wheeling an attractive option for environmental scientists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for environmental scientists in Wheeling spans from $37,440 at the 10th percentile to $98,280 at the 90th percentile — a $60,840 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $39,000, while senior environmental scientists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $93,600. Wheeling is a smaller market (pop. 26,711), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.

Environmental Scientist Salary in Wheeling by Experience

In Wheeling, an entry-level environmental scientist earns around $39,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $93,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 78% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$39,000

$-11,000 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$60,840

$-17,160 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$93,600

$-26,400 vs national

Percentile	Wheeling	WV State	National
10th Percentile	$37,440	$40,320	$48,000
25th Percentile	$46,020	$49,560	$59,000
Median (50th)	$59,693	$64,285	$76,530
75th Percentile	$77,220	$83,160	$99,000
90th Percentile	$98,280	$105,840	$126,000

Percentile

Wheeling

10th Percentile

$37,440

25th Percentile

$46,020

Median (50th)

$59,693

75th Percentile

$77,220

90th Percentile

$98,280

How to Become a Environmental Scientist in Wheeling

Education

Most environmental scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. Wheeling and the surrounding West Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Environmental SamplingGISData AnalysisEnvironmental LawReport WritingField Research

Job Outlook

Nationally, environmental scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Wheeling may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Environmental Scientist Salary in Wheeling

How much does a Environmental Scientist make in Wheeling, WV? ▼

The median environmental scientist salary in Wheeling, West Virginia is $59,693 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $76,530. Salaries range from $37,440 (10th percentile) to $98,280 (90th percentile).

How much does a Environmental Scientist make per hour in Wheeling? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $59,693, a environmental scientist in Wheeling earns approximately $29 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Wheeling compare to the West Virginia state average for environmental scientist pay? ▼

Wheeling's median environmental scientist salary of $59,693 is 7.1% below the West Virginia state average of $64,285. The local cost of living index is 78% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Wheeling, WV? ▼

Wheeling has a cost of living index of 78% compared to the national average. This means a environmental scientist salary of $59,693 in Wheeling has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a environmental scientist in Wheeling? ▼

Most environmental scientist positions in Wheeling require a bachelor's degree. Key skills include Environmental Sampling, GIS, Data Analysis, Environmental Law. The job market is projected to grow 6% nationally over the next decade.

Environmental Scientist Salary in Wheeling, West Virginia