Science & Research South Carolina (SC) Rank #40 of 50

Chemist Salary in South Carolina

The median chemist salary in South Carolina is $73,683 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $82,790.

Median Salary

$73,683

vs National

$-9,107

State Rank

#40 of 50

Cost of Living

89%

Chemist Salary in South Carolina by Experience

In South Carolina, an entry-level chemist earns around $44,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $120,150 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$44,500

$-5,500 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$74,760

$-9,240 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$120,150

$-14,850 vs national

Salary Percentiles in South Carolina

Percentile	SC Salary	National	Difference
10th Percentile	$42,720	$48,000	$-5,280
25th Percentile	$55,180	$62,000	$-6,820
Median (50th)	$73,683	$82,790	$-9,107
75th Percentile	$97,010	$109,000	$-11,990
90th Percentile	$126,380	$142,000	$-15,620

Chemist Salary by City in South Carolina

The largest employment areas for chemists in South Carolina include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and North Charleston. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Charleston, SC

$82,790

Pop. 150,227 · COL 100%

Columbia, SC

$74,511

Pop. 131,674 · COL 90%

Greenville, SC

$76,167

Pop. 72,095 · COL 92%

North Charleston, SC

$78,651

Pop. 115,382 · COL 95%

Mount Pleasant, SC

$86,930

Pop. 94,171 · COL 105%

How to Become a Chemist in South Carolina

Education

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

Key Skills

Analytical ChemistryLab TechniquesSpectroscopyHPLCQuality ControlResearch Methods

Job Outlook in South Carolina

Nationally, chemist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.