Chemist Salary in Chesapeake, Virginia
The median chemist salary in Chesapeake, VA is $81,134 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 5.8% below the Virginia state average.
Chemist Pay in Chesapeake: What to Expect (2026)
Chesapeake offers a median chemist salary of $81,134, which is $4,968 below the Virginia state average of $86,102. Compared to the national median of $82,790, Chesapeake pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Chesapeake'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 Chesapeake 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 249,422, Chesapeake is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chemist Salary in Chesapeake by Experience
In Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake, VA
| Percentile | Chesapeake |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $47,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,760 |
| Median (50th) | $81,134 |
| 75th Percentile | $106,820 |
| 90th Percentile | $139,160 |
Chemist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Chemist in Chesapeake
Education
Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Chesapeake and the surrounding Virginia 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 Chesapeake may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemist Jobs in Chesapeake
Browse open chemist positions in Chesapeake, VA: