Science & Research San Francisco, CA
Pop. 873,965
Chemist Salary in San Francisco, California
The median chemist salary in San Francisco, CA is $150,678 per year, which is 82.0% above the national median and 31.9% above the California state average.
City Median
$150,678
vs State Avg
+$36,428
vs National
+$67,888
Cost of Living
182%
Chemist Salary in San Francisco by Experience
In San Francisco, an entry-level chemist earns around $91,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $245,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 182% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$91,000
+$41,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$152,880
+$68,880 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$245,700
+$110,700 vs national
Salary Percentiles in San Francisco, CA
| Percentile | San Francisco |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $87,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $112,840 |
| Median (50th) | $150,678 |
| 75th Percentile | $198,380 |
| 90th Percentile | $258,440 |
Chemist Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Chemist in San Francisco
Education
Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. San Francisco and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Analytical ChemistryLab TechniquesSpectroscopyHPLCQuality ControlResearch Methods
Job Outlook
Nationally, chemist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in San Francisco may vary based on local industry and population growth.