Science & Research Delaware (DE) Rank #15 of 50

Chemist Salary in Delaware

The median chemist salary in Delaware is $83,618 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $82,790.

Median Salary
$83,618
vs National
+$828
State Rank
#15 of 50
Cost of Living
101%

Chemist Salary Overview in Delaware (2026)

Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for chemist compensation. Delaware falls in the middle of the pack for chemist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $83,618 per year, chemists in Delaware earn $828 more than the national median of $82,790.

Delaware's cost of living is near the national average at 101%, meaning chemist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Delaware is significant: chemists at the 10th percentile earn $48,480, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $143,420 — a $94,940 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Delaware for this role is Wilmington, where the median reaches $86,930.

Nationally, chemist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for chemists across the country.

Chemist Salary in Delaware by Experience

In Delaware, an entry-level chemist earns around $50,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $136,350 per year. The cost of living index in Delaware is 101% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$50,500
+$500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$84,840
+$840 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$136,350
+$1,350 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $83,618 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in Delaware

Percentile DE Salary
10th Percentile $48,480
25th Percentile $62,620
Median (50th) $83,618
75th Percentile $110,090
90th Percentile $143,420

Chemist Salary by City in Delaware

The largest employment areas for chemists in Delaware include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Middletown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Chemist in Delaware

Education

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

Key Skills

Analytical ChemistryLab TechniquesSpectroscopyHPLCQuality ControlResearch Methods

Job Outlook in Delaware

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

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Chemists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $52,732 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Chemist Roles in Delaware?

Get matched with recruiters hiring chemists in Delaware at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Chemist Salary in Delaware

How much does a Chemist make in Delaware? ▼
The median chemist salary in Delaware is $83,618 per year, which is 1.0% above the national median of $82,790. Salaries range from $48,480 (10th percentile) to $143,420 (90th percentile).
How much does a Chemist make per hour in Delaware? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $83,618, a chemist in Delaware earns approximately $40 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Delaware a good state for chemists? ▼
Delaware ranks #15 out of 50 states for chemist pay. The cost of living index is 101% of the national average. Entry-level chemists earn $50,500, while senior professionals earn $136,350.
How does Delaware compare to other states for chemist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for chemists is Hawaii at $140,743. Delaware's median of $83,618 ranks #15 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Rhode Island ($86,930) and Virginia ($86,102).
What is the entry-level chemist salary in Delaware? ▼
An entry-level chemist in Delaware earns approximately $50,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $84,840. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $136,350.
What city in Delaware pays chemists the most? ▼
Wilmington is the highest paying city in Delaware for chemists, with a median salary of $86,930. Other cities include Dover and Newark.