Science & Research Mississippi (MS) Rank #50 of 50

Chemist Salary in Mississippi

The median chemist salary in Mississippi is $68,716 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $82,790.

Median Salary
$68,716
vs National
$-14,074
State Rank
#50 of 50
Cost of Living
83%

Chemist Salary Overview in Mississippi (2026)

Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for chemist compensation. Chemist salaries in Mississippi are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $68,716 per year, chemists in Mississippi earn $14,074 less than the national median of $82,790.

A key advantage of working in Mississippi is its below-average cost of living (83% of the national index). This means the $68,716 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $82,790 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Mississippi is significant: chemists at the 10th percentile earn $39,840, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $117,860 — a $78,020 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Mississippi for this role is Jackson, where the median reaches $70,372.

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 Mississippi by Experience

In Mississippi, an entry-level chemist earns around $41,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $112,050 per year. The cost of living index in Mississippi is 83% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$41,500
$-8,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$69,720
$-14,280 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$112,050
$-22,950 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $68,716 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in Mississippi

Percentile MS Salary
10th Percentile $39,840
25th Percentile $51,460
Median (50th) $68,716
75th Percentile $90,470
90th Percentile $117,860

Chemist Salary by City in Mississippi

The largest employment areas for chemists in Mississippi include Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, and Hattiesburg. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Chemist in Mississippi

Education

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

Key Skills

Analytical ChemistryLab TechniquesSpectroscopyHPLCQuality ControlResearch Methods

Job Outlook in Mississippi

Nationally, chemist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Mississippi'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 $43,334 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Chemist Roles in Mississippi?

Get matched with recruiters hiring chemists in Mississippi at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Chemist Salary in Mississippi

How much does a Chemist make in Mississippi? ▼
The median chemist salary in Mississippi is $68,716 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $82,790. Salaries range from $39,840 (10th percentile) to $117,860 (90th percentile).
How much does a Chemist make per hour in Mississippi? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $68,716, a chemist in Mississippi earns approximately $33 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Mississippi a good state for chemists? ▼
Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for chemist pay. The cost of living index is 83% of the national average. Entry-level chemists earn $41,500, while senior professionals earn $112,050.
How does Mississippi compare to other states for chemist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for chemists is Hawaii at $140,743. Mississippi's median of $68,716 ranks #50 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Arkansas ($69,544) and West Virginia ($69,544).
What is the entry-level chemist salary in Mississippi? ▼
An entry-level chemist in Mississippi earns approximately $41,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $69,720. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $112,050.
What city in Mississippi pays chemists the most? ▼
Jackson is the highest paying city in Mississippi for chemists, with a median salary of $70,372. Other cities include Gulfport and Southaven.