Chemist Salary in Rockford, Illinois
The median chemist salary in Rockford, IL is $67,888 per year, which is 18% below the national median and 13.7% below the Illinois state average.
Chemist Pay in Rockford: What to Expect (2026)
Rockford offers a median chemist salary of $67,888, which is $10,763 below the Illinois state average of $78,651. Compared to the national median of $82,790, Rockford pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Rockford's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 82% of the national average. This means the $67,888 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $82,790 in an average-cost city. This makes Rockford an attractive option for chemists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for chemists in Rockford spans from $39,360 at the 10th percentile to $116,440 at the 90th percentile — a $77,080 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $41,000, while senior chemists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $110,700. With a population of 148,655, Rockford is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chemist Salary in Rockford by Experience
In Rockford, an entry-level chemist earns around $41,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $110,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 82% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Rockford, IL
| Percentile | Rockford |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $39,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $50,840 |
| Median (50th) | $67,888 |
| 75th Percentile | $89,380 |
| 90th Percentile | $116,440 |
Chemist Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Chemist in Rockford
Education
Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Rockford and the surrounding Illinois 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 Rockford may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemist Jobs in Rockford
Browse open chemist positions in Rockford, IL: