Chemical Engineer Salary in Columbia, Missouri
The median chemical engineer salary in Columbia, MO is $93,509 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 0.0% above the Missouri state average.
Chemical Engineer Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median chemical engineer salary of $93,509, which is $0 above the Missouri state average of $93,509. Compared to the national median of $106,260, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Columbia's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $93,509 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $106,260 in an average-cost city. This makes Columbia an attractive option for chemical engineers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chemical engineers in Columbia spans from $59,840 at the 10th percentile to $151,360 at the 90th percentile — a $91,520 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $61,600, while senior chemical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $142,560. With a population of 126,254, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chemical Engineer Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level chemical engineer earns around $61,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $142,560 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MO
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $59,840 |
| 25th Percentile | $73,920 |
| Median (50th) | $93,509 |
| 75th Percentile | $121,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $151,360 |
Chemical Engineer Salary in Other Missouri Cities
How to Become a Chemical Engineer in Columbia
Education
Most chemical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Columbia and the surrounding Missouri 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 Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemical Engineer Jobs in Columbia
Browse open chemical engineer positions in Columbia, MO: