Chemical Engineer Salary in Owensboro, Kentucky
The median chemical engineer salary in Owensboro, KY is $87,133 per year, which is 18% below the national median and 5.7% below the Kentucky state average.
Chemical Engineer Pay in Owensboro: What to Expect (2026)
Owensboro offers a median chemical engineer salary of $87,133, which is $5,313 below the Kentucky state average of $92,446. Compared to the national median of $106,260, Owensboro pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Owensboro's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 82% of the national average. This means the $87,133 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $106,260 in an average-cost city. This makes Owensboro an attractive option for chemical engineers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chemical engineers in Owensboro spans from $55,760 at the 10th percentile to $141,040 at the 90th percentile — a $85,280 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $57,400, while senior chemical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $132,840. Owensboro is a smaller market (pop. 60,183), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chemical Engineer Salary in Owensboro by Experience
In Owensboro, an entry-level chemical engineer earns around $57,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $132,840 per year. The local cost of living index is 82% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Owensboro, KY
| Percentile | Owensboro |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $55,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $68,880 |
| Median (50th) | $87,133 |
| 75th Percentile | $113,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $141,040 |
Chemical Engineer Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Chemical Engineer in Owensboro
Education
Most chemical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Owensboro and the surrounding Kentucky area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, chemical engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Owensboro may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemical Engineer Jobs in Owensboro
Browse open chemical engineer positions in Owensboro, KY: