Environmental Scientist Salary in Virginia
Based on 3K+ workers in Virginia
Median Annual Salary (VA)
$82,230
$39.53/hr
vs National Average
$80,042
+2.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$58K – $136K
3K employed in Virginia
Understanding the Environmental Scientist salary in Virginia reveals a median annual earning of $82,230. This figure positions Virginia professionals at 3% above the national average, indicating a strong market for these vital roles. With approximately 2,850 Environmental Scientists employed in the state, this data reflects a robust sector.
Several factors contribute to the salary range of $57,720 to $135,580 for an Environmental Scientist salary in Virginia. Experience level, specific specializations within environmental science, and the type of employer, whether government or private industry, all play a significant role. Geographic location within Virginia can also influence compensation due to varying cost of living and demand.
Salary Distribution — Environmental Scientist in Virginia
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $57,720 |
| 25th percentile | $68,030 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $82,230 |
| 75th percentile | $102,750 |
| 90th percentile | $135,580 |
Top-Paying Industries for Environmental Scientist (U.S.)
Which industries pay Environmental Scientists the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Environmental Scientists in Virginia tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Finance and Insurance | $134,100 | 110 |
| Transportation and Warehousing | $122,660 | 210 |
| Manufacturing | $120,930 | 1K |
| Utilities | $115,170 | 1K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $110,020 | 1K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Environmental Scientist in Virginia vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Virginia) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $72,630 |
| 2023 | $79,440 |
| 2024 | $78,140 |
| 2025 | $82,230 |
| 2026 (projected) | $86,534 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Virginia Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $72,630 | $70,215 |
| 2023 | $79,440 | $74,160 |
| 2024 | $78,140 | $77,423 |
| 2025 | $82,230 | $80,042 |
| 2026 (projected) | $86,534 | $84,232 |
Environmental Scientist Salary by Experience Level in Virginia
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $68,030 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $82,230 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $102,750 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $135,580 |
Environmental Scientist Salary in Other States
Related Environmental Scientist Salaries in Virginia
How other high-demand occupations in Virginia compare to Environmental Scientist ($82,230 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Environmental Scientist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physicist in VA | $145,040 | +76.4% | $69.73/hr |
| Biochemist and Biophysicist in VA | $105,780 | +28.6% | $50.86/hr |
| Chemist in VA | $96,650 | +17.5% | $46.47/hr |
| Medical Scientist in VA | $93,620 | +13.9% | $45.01/hr |
| Geoscientist in VA | $88,390 | +7.5% | $42.50/hr |
| Psychologist in VA | $86,520 | +5.2% | $41.60/hr |
| Urban and Regional Planner in VA | $86,030 | +4.6% | $41.36/hr |
| Commercial and Industrial Designer in VA | $82,230 | +0.0% | $39.53/hr |
| Human Resources Specialist in VA | $82,090 | -0.2% | $39.47/hr |
| Respiratory Therapist in VA | $82,910 | +0.8% | $39.86/hr |
| Multimedia Artist and Animator in VA | $81,510 | -0.9% | $39.19/hr |
| Instructional Coordinator in VA | $83,230 | +1.2% | $40.01/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for an Environmental Scientist in Virginia?
- The median salary for an Environmental Scientist in Virginia is $82,230 per year, which equates to approximately $40 per hour. This figure is 2.7% higher than the national average for this profession.
How much does an Environmental Scientist in Virginia typically earn?
- The salary range for Environmental Scientists in Virginia falls between $57,720 and $135,580 annually. The majority of professionals earn around the median salary of $82,230 per year.
Is the salary for Environmental Scientists in Virginia higher than the national average?
- Yes, Environmental Scientists in Virginia earn 2.7% more than the national average. The median salary in Virginia is $82,230 per year, compared to the national median.
How many Environmental Scientists are employed in Virginia?
- There are approximately 2,850 Environmental Scientists employed in Virginia. These professionals contribute to the state's environmental efforts, earning a median salary of $82,230 annually.