Chemist Salary in the United States
Based on 83K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$92,010
$44.236/hr
▲ 5.8% vs 2024Salary Range
$101K – $195K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
83K
workers nationwide
The median chemist salary in the United States is $86,969 per year, reflecting the value organizations place on chemical expertise and research capabilities. With approximately 83,310 chemists employed across the country, this profession remains a stable career path for those with advanced education in chemistry and related scientific disciplines.
Chemist salary in the United States varies significantly based on experience level, educational background, and industry sector. Entry-level positions typically start around $106,720 annually, while experienced chemists in specialized fields or senior roles can earn up to $191,880 per year. Factors such as geographic location, employer type, and specific chemical discipline also influence earning potential within this field.
Salary Distribution — Chemist
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $101,400 |
| 25th percentile | $128,610 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $92,010 |
| 75th percentile | $172,560 |
| 90th percentile | $195,190 |
Chemist Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Chemist
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | $149,860 | +62.9% | 280 |
| 2 | Maryland | $140,670 | +52.9% | 2K |
| 3 | Delaware | $129,860 | +41.1% | 1K |
| 4 | New Mexico | $126,960 | +38.0% | 280 |
| 5 | Massachusetts | $125,000 | +35.9% | 3K |
| 6 | Alaska | $106,010 | +15.2% | 60 |
| 7 | Oregon | $104,590 | +13.7% | 730 |
| 8 | Louisiana | $103,890 | +12.9% | 740 |
| 9 | Wyoming | $102,000 | +10.9% | 80 |
| 10 | Colorado | $101,980 | +10.8% | 2K |
Historical Salary Trend — Chemist
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $79,362 |
| 2023 | $83,812 |
| 2024 | $86,969 |
| 2025 | $92,010 |
Chemist Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do chemists make per hour in the United States?
- Chemists in the United States earn a median hourly rate of $42/hour. This translates to an annual median salary of $86,969, though actual hourly rates can vary based on experience, location, and employer.
What is the salary range for chemists in the US?
- Chemist salaries in the United States range from $106,720 to $191,880 annually. This wide range reflects differences in experience level, specialization, and geographic location within the country.
Which city pays chemists the highest salary?
- The District of Columbia offers the highest median salary for chemists at $153,320 per year. This is significantly higher than the national median of $86,969, making it the top-paying location for chemistry professionals.
How many chemists are employed in the United States?
- There are approximately 83,310 chemists currently employed in the United States. This represents a stable workforce in the chemistry field across various industries and research sectors.