Science & Research Colorado (CO) Rank #11 of 50

Chemist Salary in Colorado

The median chemist salary in Colorado is $86,930 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $82,790.

Median Salary
$86,930
vs National
+$4,140
State Rank
#11 of 50
Cost of Living
105%

Chemist Salary in Colorado by Experience

In Colorado, an entry-level chemist earns around $52,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $141,750 per year. The cost of living index in Colorado is 105% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$52,500
+$2,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$88,200
+$4,200 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$141,750
+$6,750 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Colorado

Percentile CO Salary
10th Percentile $50,400
25th Percentile $65,100
Median (50th) $86,930
75th Percentile $114,450
90th Percentile $149,100

Chemist Salary by City in Colorado

The largest employment areas for chemists in Colorado include Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, and Fort Collins. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Chemist in Colorado

Education

Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Colorado has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Analytical ChemistryLab TechniquesSpectroscopyHPLCQuality ControlResearch Methods

Job Outlook in Colorado

Nationally, chemist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Colorado's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Find Chemist Jobs in Colorado

Browse open chemist positions in Colorado:

Frequently Asked Questions: Chemist Salary in Colorado

How much does a Chemist make in Colorado?
The median chemist salary in Colorado is $86,930 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $82,790. Salaries range from $50,400 (10th percentile) to $149,100 (90th percentile).
How much does a Chemist make per hour in Colorado?
Based on the median annual salary of $86,930, a chemist in Colorado earns approximately $42 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Colorado a good state for chemists?
Colorado ranks #11 out of 50 states for chemist pay. The cost of living index is 105% of the national average. Entry-level chemists earn $52,500, while senior professionals earn $141,750.
How does Colorado compare to other states for chemist salary?
The highest paying state for chemists is Hawaii at $140,743. Colorado's median of $86,930 ranks #11 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Maryland ($91,069) and Oregon ($91,069).
What is the entry-level chemist salary in Colorado?
An entry-level chemist in Colorado earns approximately $52,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $88,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $141,750.
What city in Colorado pays chemists the most?
Boulder is the highest paying city in Colorado for chemists, with a median salary of $105,971. Other cities include Denver and Colorado Springs.