Chemist Salary in Columbus, Georgia
The median chemist salary in Columbus, GA is $71,199 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 7.5% below the Georgia state average.
Chemist Pay in Columbus: What to Expect (2026)
Columbus offers a median chemist salary of $71,199, which is $5,796 below the Georgia state average of $76,995. Compared to the national median of $82,790, Columbus pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Columbus's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 86% of the national average. This means the $71,199 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $82,790 in an average-cost city. This makes Columbus an attractive option for chemists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chemists in Columbus spans from $41,280 at the 10th percentile to $122,120 at the 90th percentile — a $80,840 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $43,000, while senior chemists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $116,100. With a population of 206,922, Columbus is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chemist Salary in Columbus by Experience
In Columbus, an entry-level chemist earns around $43,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $116,100 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbus, GA
| Percentile | Columbus |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $41,280 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,320 |
| Median (50th) | $71,199 |
| 75th Percentile | $93,740 |
| 90th Percentile | $122,120 |
Chemist Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Chemist in Columbus
Education
Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Columbus and the surrounding Georgia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, chemist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Columbus may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemist Jobs in Columbus
Browse open chemist positions in Columbus, GA: