Chemical Engineer Salary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The median chemical engineer salary in Philadelphia, PA is $108,385 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 6.2% above the Pennsylvania state average.
Chemical Engineer Pay in Philadelphia: What to Expect (2026)
Philadelphia offers a median chemical engineer salary of $108,385, which is $6,375 above the Pennsylvania state average of $102,010. Compared to the national median of $106,260, Philadelphia pays above average for this role.
Philadelphia's cost of living is 102% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for chemical engineers in Philadelphia spans from $69,360 at the 10th percentile to $175,440 at the 90th percentile — a $106,080 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $71,400, while senior chemical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $165,240. As a major metro area with a population of 1,603,797, Philadelphia typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Chemical Engineer Salary in Philadelphia by Experience
In Philadelphia, an entry-level chemical engineer earns around $71,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $165,240 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Philadelphia, PA
| Percentile | Philadelphia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $69,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,680 |
| Median (50th) | $108,385 |
| 75th Percentile | $140,760 |
| 90th Percentile | $175,440 |
Chemical Engineer Salary in Other Pennsylvania Cities
How to Become a Chemical Engineer in Philadelphia
Education
Most chemical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Philadelphia and the surrounding Pennsylvania 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 Philadelphia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemical Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia
Browse open chemical engineer positions in Philadelphia, PA: