Environmental Economists
Environmental economists analyze the financial and economic dimensions of environmental issues like water quality, air pollution, land use, and renewable energy. They quantify the costs and benefits of different environmental policies and programs using economic data and statistical methods. Most work for government agencies, consulting firms, nonprofits, or universities.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against environmental economists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
An environmental economist might spend part of a week building a cost-benefit model for a proposed carbon tax, analyzing data on energy consumption and emissions. They could meet with policymakers to present findings on the economic impacts of wetland protection. Another day might involve reviewing research on the market value of ecosystem services or designing a study to measure how consumers respond to new environmental regulations.
Who this work suits
Holland code IEC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to be drawn to solving complex problems through research and evidence, and you're comfortable with statistics and economic theory. You're also enterprising—interested in influencing decisions and shaping policy outcomes—and you want your work to address real-world environmental challenges.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $115,910 | $167,590 | $224,080 | 3,000 |
| New Jersey | $126,940 | $167,550 | $192,960 | 280 |
| Delaware | $102,270 | $159,120 | $167,430 | 70 |
| Maryland | $118,460 | $144,680 | $178,780 | 1,130 |
| Kansas | $117,810 | $138,790 | $205,780 | 80 |
| Virginia | $93,920 | $137,590 | $179,730 | 950 |
| New York | $104,420 | $136,660 | $224,990 | 910 |
| North Carolina | $79,790 | $136,150 | $172,860 | 290 |
| Idaho | $86,960 | $131,270 | $141,600 | 130 |
| Alabama | $91,210 | $129,960 | $153,570 | 40 |
| Georgia | $98,790 | $122,570 | $162,410 | 260 |
| Oregon | $98,170 | $122,120 | $128,080 | 320 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Chartered Economist — American Academy of Financial Management
- Certified Environmental Professional in Training (CEP-IT) — Academy of Board Certified Environmental Professionals
- Registered Environmental Property Assessor (REPA) — National Registry of Environmental Professionals
- Certified Environmental Professional — Academy of Board Certified Environmental Professionals
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against environmental economists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-3011.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.