Chemist Salary in Portland, Maine
The median chemist salary in Portland, ME is $89,413 per year, which is 8.0% above the national median and 10.2% above the Maine state average.
Chemist Pay in Portland: What to Expect (2026)
Portland offers a median chemist salary of $89,413, which is $8,279 above the Maine state average of $81,134. Compared to the national median of $82,790, Portland pays above average for this role.
Portland's cost of living is 108% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for chemists in Portland spans from $51,840 at the 10th percentile to $153,360 at the 90th percentile — a $101,520 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $54,000, while senior chemists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $145,800. Portland is a smaller market (pop. 68,408), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chemist Salary in Portland by Experience
In Portland, an entry-level chemist earns around $54,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $145,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 108% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Portland, ME
| Percentile | Portland |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,840 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,960 |
| Median (50th) | $89,413 |
| 75th Percentile | $117,720 |
| 90th Percentile | $153,360 |
Chemist Salary in Other Maine Cities
How to Become a Chemist in Portland
Education
Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Portland and the surrounding Maine 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 Portland may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemist Jobs in Portland
Browse open chemist positions in Portland, ME: