Science & Research Lafayette, LA Pop. 121,374

Chemist Salary in Lafayette, Louisiana

The median chemist salary in Lafayette, LA is $72,855 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 3.3% below the Louisiana state average.

City Median
$72,855
vs State Avg
$-2,484
vs National
$-9,935
Cost of Living
88%

Chemist Salary in Lafayette by Experience

In Lafayette, an entry-level chemist earns around $44,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $118,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$44,000
$-6,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$73,920
$-10,080 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$118,800
$-16,200 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Lafayette, LA

Percentile Lafayette
10th Percentile $42,240
25th Percentile $54,560
Median (50th) $72,855
75th Percentile $95,920
90th Percentile $124,960

Chemist Salary in Other Louisiana Cities

New Orleans, LA
$81,134
Pop. 383,997
Baton Rouge, LA
$76,167
Pop. 227,470
Lake Charles, LA
$71,199
Pop. 80,000
Shreveport, LA
$70,372
Pop. 187,593

How to Become a Chemist in Lafayette

Education

Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Lafayette and the surrounding Louisiana area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Analytical ChemistryLab TechniquesSpectroscopyHPLCQuality ControlResearch Methods

Job Outlook

Nationally, chemist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Lafayette may vary based on local industry and population growth.