Environmental Economists
O*NET 19-3011.01 · SOC 19-3011
Environmental Economist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $125k a year with +4.7% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 1,100 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Estimate the economic costs of pollution or environmental degradation.
- →Analyze cost-benefit tradeoffs of proposed environmental regulations.
- →Model the economic impact of carbon taxes on industry sectors.
- →Advise policymakers on market-based approaches to reducing emissions.
- →Research how natural resource depletion affects long-term economic growth.
Education & How to Get In
Environmental Economist roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Environmental Economist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Environmental Economist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Environmental Economist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Environmental Economists is projected to grow 4.7% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·37% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Environmental Economist make?
The median Environmental Economist earns $125k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Environmental Economist jobs?
Our model puts Environmental Economist at 34 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 37% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Environmental Economist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 4.7% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 1,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Environmental Economist?
Environmental Economist roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become an Environmental Economist?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Environmental Economist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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