Chemist Salary in Raleigh, North Carolina
The median chemist salary in Raleigh, NC is $81,134 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.5% above the North Carolina state average.
Chemist Pay in Raleigh: What to Expect (2026)
Raleigh offers a median chemist salary of $81,134, which is $4,967 above the North Carolina state average of $76,167. Compared to the national median of $82,790, Raleigh pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Raleigh's cost of living is 98% 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 Raleigh spans from $47,040 at the 10th percentile to $139,160 at the 90th percentile — a $92,120 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $49,000, while senior chemists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $132,300. With a population of 467,665, Raleigh is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chemist Salary in Raleigh by Experience
In Raleigh, an entry-level chemist earns around $49,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $132,300 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Raleigh, NC
| Percentile | Raleigh |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $47,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,760 |
| Median (50th) | $81,134 |
| 75th Percentile | $106,820 |
| 90th Percentile | $139,160 |
Chemist Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Chemist in Raleigh
Education
Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Raleigh and the surrounding North Carolina 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 Raleigh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemist Jobs in Raleigh
Browse open chemist positions in Raleigh, NC: