Environmental Scientists and Specialists Salary in California
Also called: Environmental Scientists and Specialists
Environmental Scientists and Specialists in California earn a median of $106,510 a year, +30% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $106,510
- vs. U.S. median
- +30% ($82,220)
- Rank among states
- 2 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 12,490
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $65,350; the top 10% earn over $161,910. Nationally the range is $52,520 to $140,010.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Conservation Scientists$79,810 median in California
- Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists$98,530 median in California
- Soil and Plant Scientists$91,930 median in California
- Environmental Restoration Planners$106,510 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors$96,980 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health$61,220 median in California
Environmental Scientists and Specialists pay in California
How much do environmental scientists and specialists make in California?
The median is $106,510 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $65,350 and the top 10% earn over $161,910. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for environmental scientists and specialists?
On pay alone it ranks 2 of 51 (+30% vs. the national median of $82,220). Living costs are not included.