Chemist Salary in Hawaii
The median chemist salary in Hawaii is $140,743 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $82,790.
Chemist Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for chemist compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for chemists seeking high pay. At $140,743 per year, chemists in Hawaii earn $57,953 more than the national median of $82,790.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $140,743 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $82,790.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: chemists at the 10th percentile earn $81,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $241,400 — a $159,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $144,883.
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 Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level chemist earns around $85,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $229,500 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $81,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,400 |
| Median (50th) | $140,743 |
| 75th Percentile | $185,300 |
| 90th Percentile | $241,400 |
Chemist Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for chemists in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Chemist in Hawaii
Education
Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, chemist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Hawaii'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 $88,757 over your career trajectory.
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