Environmental Attorney Salary in 2025

As the world continues to focus on sustainability and climate change, the demand for environmental attorneys is on the rise. These legal professionals play a vital role in ensuring compliance with environmental laws, advocating for environmental justice, and advising corporations, governments, and nonprofits. If you’re considering a career in this field, understanding the environmental attorney salary in 2025 is crucial. This article explores average earnings, influential factors, job outlook, and how education and certifications impact salary.

Average Environmental Attorney Salary in 2025

In 2025, the average salary for an environmental attorney in the United States is approximately $103,000 per year, with variations depending on location, experience, and sector.

Entry-level (0–2 years): $68,000 – $85,000
Mid-level (3–7 years): $90,000 – $120,000
Senior-level (8+ years): $125,000 – $160,000+
Top-tier positions (partners, government heads): $170,000 – $200,000+

These figures reflect base salaries and exclude bonuses, profit-sharing, or other benefits.

Factors That Influence Salary

Several variables affect how much an environmental attorney earns in 2025:

1. Experience Level

Experience remains the strongest determinant of compensation. Seasoned attorneys command higher salaries due to their specialized knowledge and case history.

2. Location

High-paying states: California, New York, Washington D.C., and Massachusetts
Lower-paying regions: Midwest and rural areas, where demand is generally lower

3. Type of Employer

Private firms: Generally offer the highest pay, especially in environmental litigation or regulatory compliance
Government agencies (EPA, state DEQs): More stable but typically offer lower base pay
Nonprofits/NGOs: Passion-driven but often offer modest salaries

4. Specialization

Attorneys focusing on complex environmental litigation or corporate compliance tend to earn more than those in advocacy or education roles.

5. Education & Certifications

Holding advanced degrees or environmental law certifications (e.g., LEED accreditation, environmental law LLMs) can boost earning potential.

Salary Breakdown: Take-Home Pay on a $103K Salary

If your base salary is $103,000, here’s what your approximate take-home pay might look like in 2025:

Federal income tax: ~$18,000
State tax (varies): ~$4,000 (example for a moderate tax state)
Social Security & Medicare: ~$7,900
Net take-home (estimated): $73,000 – $76,000 annually, or about $6,000/month

Note: This estimate varies depending on deductions, state of residence, and benefits.

Salary by Experience Level

Experience Level	Average Salary (2025)
Entry-Level (0–2 yrs)	$75,000
Associate (3–5 yrs)	$95,000 – $110,000
Senior Associate (6–9 yrs)	$120,000 – $140,000
Partner / Director	$160,000+

Job Market Trends in 2025

The job market for environmental attorneys continues to grow, driven by:

Increased climate litigation (especially against corporations and governments)
Expansion of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) compliance in corporate law
Federal investments in green energy and environmental protection
More regulations under updated environmental legislation

Growth Outlook:

According to 2025 projections, employment for environmental lawyers is expected to grow 7–9% over the next five years, which is above average for legal professions.

Benefits of Becoming an Environmental Attorney

Meaningful work addressing global environmental challenges
Competitive salaries with growth potential
Diverse career paths in public, private, and nonprofit sectors
Job security in a growing regulatory environment

Education & Certifications That Impact Salary

To increase earning potential, environmental attorneys should consider:

1. Advanced Degrees

LL.M. in Environmental Law
Dual degrees (JD + Environmental Science or Public Policy)

2. Certifications

LEED Green Associate or AP
Certified Environmental Law Specialist (where available)

These credentials demonstrate expertise and often lead to higher-paying roles or leadership opportunities.

Final Thoughts

An environmental attorney’s salary in 2025 reflects the growing value placed on legal expertise in environmental protection and compliance. With increasing demand across sectors, now is a promising time to pursue this career. While pay can vary by location and experience, environmental law offers not only financial rewards but also the chance to make a tangible impact on the planet’s future.