Environmental Engineers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 37,950 environmental engineers, and they earn a median of $104,170/year. The range runs from $65K to $162K. Oregon pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level environmental engineers start around $65K. The gap between that and the median ($104K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $162K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $130K | 740 |
| California | $128K | 4,770 |
| District of Columbia | $126K | 170 |
| Louisiana | $123K | 250 |
| Massachusetts | $117K | 1,410 |
| Washington | $116K | 1,330 |
| Alaska | $114K | 240 |
| Nevada | $112K | 210 |
| Texas | $109K | 1,710 |
| Connecticut | $108K | 500 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a environmental engineers make?▼
The median environmental engineers salary in the United States is $104,170 per year ($50/hour). Entry-level positions start around $64,950, while experienced professionals earn up to $161,910.
What education do you need to become a environmental engineers?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for environmental engineers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for environmental engineers.
What are the highest paying states for environmental engineers?▼
The highest paying states for environmental engineers are Oregon ($130,370), California ($127,660), District of Columbia ($125,980), Louisiana ($123,210), Massachusetts ($116,980). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.