Chemist Salary 2025: Median $91,240, Growth 4.9%
Chemists in the U.S. earn a median annual salary of $91,240, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average wage is $100,450, roughly $44 per hour, with the top 10% making over $160,830 and the bottom 10% earning $58,460 or less. That salary is for the 82,770 chemists employed nationwide as of May 2024.
How much Chemists earn
The middle half of chemists earn between $91,240 and $100,450; the mean wage is $100,450. Hourly, that works out to about $48.29 on average. The typical range stretches from $58,460 at the 10th percentile to $160,830 at the 90th. The median—$91,240—is well above the U.S. median for all occupations.
Pay varies by experience and industry. Chemists in pharmaceutical manufacturing tend to earn above the median, while those in testing labs or government agencies often sit closer to the midpoint. The BLS figures reflect all chemists, including those just starting out and those in senior roles.
Pay by state
Location matters a lot. The highest-paid chemists work in the District of Columbia, where the average salary is $149,860. Maryland is next at $140,670, followed by Delaware ($129,860), New Mexico ($126,960), and Massachusetts ($125,000). These states tend to have high concentrations of federal research, biotech, or energy-sector employers.
At the low end, chemists in South Dakota average $67,440, in Maine $64,440, and in Montana $61,890. That's a spread of nearly $90,000 between the top and bottom states—a reminder that relocating can dramatically change earning potential.
- Highest-paying state: District of Columbia, $149,860
- Lowest-paying state: Montana, $61,890
How to become Chemist
Most chemist jobs require a bachelor's degree in chemistry or a closely related field like biochemistry or chemical engineering. A master's or PhD is often needed for research and development roles, especially in pharmaceutical or academic settings. Lab experience is critical—internships or undergraduate research count heavily.
The typical path: earn a bachelor's (4 years), then get an entry-level lab technician or analyst job. Many chemists go on to earn a master's (2 years) or PhD (5–6 years) while working. Professional certification through the American Chemical Society is optional but can boost credentials. State licensure isn't usually required, but certain roles (e.g., forensic chemistry) do have specific certifications.
- Step 1: Earn a bachelor's in chemistry or related field.
- Step 2: Gain lab experience through internships or research.
- Step 3: Consider a master's or PhD for higher-level positions.
- Step 4: Optional: obtain ACS certification.
Job outlook
Employment for chemists is projected to grow 4.9% from 2024 to 2034, which the BLS rates as faster than average for all occupations. That translates to about 6,300 openings per year, mostly from workers retiring or moving to other roles. Demand will be driven by pharmaceutical research, environmental testing, and materials development. The number of new chemists entering the field each year is roughly in line with the number of graduates, so competition for research-focused roles is moderate.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary of a chemist in 2025?
The national median salary for chemists is $91,240; the mean is $100,450 (about $48.29/hour). Figures are from the Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2024 estimates.
How long does it take to become a chemist?
A bachelor's degree takes 4 years. Many positions require a master's (2 additional years) or PhD (5–6 years post-bachelor's). In total, expect 4–10 years depending on the role.
What is the job growth for chemists?
Job growth is projected at 4.9% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average. About 6,300 openings per year are expected, mostly due to retirements and turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Chemists data.