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Chemists Salary in California
Last updated: 2025 BLS data · Page refreshed:
How much do Chemists make in California?
Last updated: 2025 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
$97,860
Median Annual Salary
▲
+0.9% vs 2024
$106,810
Mean Salary
$97,860
Median Salary
$47.05
Hourly Rate
9,820 people work as Chemists in California
Chemists salary by percentile in California
BLS-reported salary distribution — from entry-level (10th percentile) to top earners (90th percentile).
Chemists in California earn a median salary of $97,860 per year ($8,155/month).
This is 6.4% above the national average of $92,010.
California ranks #16 out of 51 states for Chemists pay.
Approximately 9,820 people work in this occupation across California.
Salaries increased by 0.9% compared to 2024.
About This Job: Chemists
Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.
Top Skills
Science
4.12
Reading Comprehension
4.0
Critical Thinking
4.0
Speaking
3.88
Active Listening
3.75
Key Knowledge Areas
Chemistry
4.92
English Language
4.01
Mathematics
3.79
Production and Processing
3.46
Administration and Management
3.39
Typical Education: Bachelor's Degree
(55.9% of workers)
Salaries for Chemists in California range from $60,930 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $164,150 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $76,340 and $127,790.
The median annual salary for Chemists in California is $97,860 as of 2025. The average (mean) salary is $106,810.
What is the salary range for a Chemists in California?
Salaries for Chemists in California range from $60,930 at the 10th percentile to $164,150 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% earn between $76,340 and $127,790.
What is the starting salary for a Chemists in California?
Entry-level Chemists positions in California typically start around $60,930 (10th percentile). With some experience, salaries rise to $76,340 (25th percentile).
How many people work as Chemists in California?
According to 2025 BLS data, approximately 9,820 people are employed as Chemists in California.
What is the hourly rate for a Chemists in California?
Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, the median hourly rate for a Chemists in California is approximately $47.05 per hour.
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2025 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
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