Environmental Scientist Salary in San Diego, CA
Environmental Scientist salary data for San Diego, CA — adjusted for local cost of living. Entry-level to senior pay ranges, take-home pay calculator, and local job market insights.
Environmental Scientist Salary in San Diego, CA — 2026
The median Environmental Scientist salary in San Diego, CA is $124,800 per year ($10,400/month, $60/hr). This reflects the local cost of living index of 160, which is 60% above the national average.
Environmental Scientist Take-Home Pay in San Diego
Tax Breakdown (Median Salary)
| Gross Annual | $124,800 |
| Federal Tax | -$19,199 |
| State Tax (9.3%) | -$11,606 |
| FICA (SS + Medicare) | -$9,547 |
| Annual Take-Home | $84,447 |
| Monthly Take-Home | $7,037 |
Living Cost Comparison
Environmental Scientist Requirements
Key Skills
San Diego Job Market Overview
San Diego, California has a population of 1,386,932 and an unemployment rate of 3.8%. The top industries are Military, Biotech, Tourism. The local job growth rate is 2.2%, and the average commute time is 25 minutes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Environmental Scientist salary in San Diego, CA?
How much does a Environmental Scientist take home in San Diego after taxes?
Is San Diego a good city for Environmental Scientists?
What skills are needed for a Environmental Scientist in San Diego?
How does Environmental Scientist salary in San Diego compare to the national average?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Environmental Scientist salary in San Diego, CA?
The median Environmental Scientist salary in San Diego, CA is $124,800 per year as of 2026. This is adjusted for the local cost of living index of 160. Entry-level Environmental Scientists earn around $81,600, while senior-level professionals can earn $152,000 or more.
How much does a Environmental Scientist take home in San Diego after taxes?
A Environmental Scientist earning the median salary of $124,800 in San Diego, CA takes home approximately $84,447 per year ($7,037/month) after federal, state, and local taxes. The effective tax rate is 32.3%.
Is San Diego a good city for Environmental Scientists?
San Diego, CA has a cost of living index of 160 (above national average). Environmental Scientists here earn above the city median. The local unemployment rate is 3.8% and top industries include Military, Biotech, Tourism.
What skills are needed for a Environmental Scientist in San Diego?
Key skills for Environmental Scientists include Environmental Sampling, GIS, Data Analysis, Report Writing, EPA Regulations. Typical education requirement is Bachelor's Degree. Valuable certifications include LEED, QEP, Hazmat Certification.
How does Environmental Scientist salary in San Diego compare to the national average?
The national median Environmental Scientist salary is $78,000. In San Diego, the adjusted salary is $124,800, which is 60.0% higher than the national average, reflecting the local cost of living.