Chemist Salary in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
The median chemist salary in Pittsburgh, PA is $76,995 per year, which is 7% below the national median and 3.1% below the Pennsylvania state average.
Chemist Pay in Pittsburgh: What to Expect (2026)
Pittsburgh offers a median chemist salary of $76,995, which is $2,483 below the Pennsylvania state average of $79,478. Compared to the national median of $82,790, Pittsburgh pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Pittsburgh's cost of living is 93% 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 Pittsburgh spans from $44,640 at the 10th percentile to $132,060 at the 90th percentile — a $87,420 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $46,500, while senior chemists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $125,550. With a population of 302,971, Pittsburgh is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chemist Salary in Pittsburgh by Experience
In Pittsburgh, an entry-level chemist earns around $46,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $125,550 per year. The local cost of living index is 93% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Pittsburgh, PA
| Percentile | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $44,640 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,660 |
| Median (50th) | $76,995 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,370 |
| 90th Percentile | $132,060 |
Chemist Salary in Other Pennsylvania Cities
How to Become a Chemist in Pittsburgh
Education
Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Pittsburgh and the surrounding Pennsylvania 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 Pittsburgh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemist Jobs in Pittsburgh
Browse open chemist positions in Pittsburgh, PA: