Environmental Economists
Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed
Conduct economic analysis related to environmental protection and use of the natural environment, such as water, air, land, and renewable energy resources. Evaluate and quantify benefits, costs, incentives, and impacts of alternative options using economic principles and statistical techniques.
Median pay: $124,720/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +1.2% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Master's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Write technical documents or academic articles to communicate study results or economic forecasts.
• Conduct research on economic and environmental topics, such as alternative fuel use, public and private land use, soil conservation, air and water pollution control, and endangered species protection.
• Collect and analyze data to compare the environmental implications of economic policy or practice alternatives.
• Assess the costs and benefits of various activities, policies, or regulations that affect the environment or natural resource stocks.
• Prepare and deliver presentations to communicate economic and environmental study results, to present policy recommendations, or to raise awareness of environmental consequences.
• Develop programs or policy recommendations to achieve environmental goals in cost-effective ways.
• Develop economic models, forecasts, or scenarios to predict future economic and environmental outcomes.
• Demonstrate or promote the economic benefits of sound environmental regulations.
What's the median pay for Environmental Economists?
The median pay for Environmental Economists is $124,720 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Environmental Economists?
Employment for Environmental Economists is projected to change +1.2% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Environmental Economists?
Typical entry-level education: Master's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Environmental Economists?
About 900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.