Science & Research Idaho (ID) Rank #26 of 50

Chemist Salary in Idaho

The median chemist salary in Idaho is $77,823 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $82,790.

Median Salary
$77,823
vs National
$-4,967
State Rank
#26 of 50
Cost of Living
94%

Chemist Salary Overview in Idaho (2026)

Idaho ranks #26 out of 50 states for chemist compensation. Chemist salaries in Idaho are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $77,823 per year, chemists in Idaho earn $4,967 less than the national median of $82,790.

A key advantage of working in Idaho is its below-average cost of living (94% of the national index). This means the $77,823 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $82,790 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Idaho is significant: chemists at the 10th percentile earn $45,120, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $133,480 — a $88,360 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Idaho for this role is Boise, where the median reaches $82,790.

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 Idaho by Experience

In Idaho, an entry-level chemist earns around $47,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $126,900 per year. The cost of living index in Idaho is 94% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$47,000
$-3,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$78,960
$-5,040 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$126,900
$-8,100 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Idaho

Percentile ID Salary
10th Percentile $45,120
25th Percentile $58,280
Median (50th) $77,823
75th Percentile $102,460
90th Percentile $133,480

Chemist Salary by City in Idaho

The largest employment areas for chemists in Idaho include Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Idaho Falls. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Chemist in Idaho

Education

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

Key Skills

Analytical ChemistryLab TechniquesSpectroscopyHPLCQuality ControlResearch Methods

Job Outlook in Idaho

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Chemist Salary in Idaho

How much does a Chemist make in Idaho? ▼
The median chemist salary in Idaho is $77,823 per year, which is 6% below the national median of $82,790. Salaries range from $45,120 (10th percentile) to $133,480 (90th percentile).
How much does a Chemist make per hour in Idaho? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $77,823, a chemist in Idaho earns approximately $37 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Idaho a good state for chemists? ▼
Idaho ranks #26 out of 50 states for chemist pay. The cost of living index is 94% of the national average. Entry-level chemists earn $47,000, while senior professionals earn $126,900.
How does Idaho compare to other states for chemist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for chemists is Hawaii at $140,743. Idaho's median of $77,823 ranks #26 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Illinois ($78,651) and Montana ($78,651).
What is the entry-level chemist salary in Idaho? ▼
An entry-level chemist in Idaho earns approximately $47,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $78,960. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $126,900.
What city in Idaho pays chemists the most? ▼
Boise is the highest paying city in Idaho for chemists, with a median salary of $82,790. Other cities include Meridian and Nampa.