Chemist Salary in Helena, Montana
The median chemist salary in Helena, MT is $77,823 per year, which is 6% below the national median and 1.1% below the Montana state average.
Chemist Pay in Helena: What to Expect (2026)
Helena offers a median chemist salary of $77,823, which is $828 below the Montana state average of $78,651. Compared to the national median of $82,790, Helena pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Helena's cost of living is 94% 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 Helena spans from $45,120 at the 10th percentile to $133,480 at the 90th percentile — a $88,360 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $47,000, while senior chemists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $126,900. Helena is a smaller market (pop. 32,315), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Chemist Salary in Helena by Experience
In Helena, an entry-level chemist earns around $47,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $126,900 per year. The local cost of living index is 94% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Helena, MT
| Percentile | Helena |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,120 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,280 |
| Median (50th) | $77,823 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,460 |
| 90th Percentile | $133,480 |
Chemist Salary in Other Montana Cities
How to Become a Chemist in Helena
Education
Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Helena and the surrounding Montana 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 Helena may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemist Jobs in Helena
Browse open chemist positions in Helena, MT: