Chemist Salary in California (2026)
California · 42.0% above national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $185,346 | +55.0% | Medium |
| San Diego | $176,975 | +48.0% | Medium |
| San Jose | $205,674 | +72.0% | Medium |
| San Francisco | $221,219 | +85.0% | Medium |
| Fresno | $129,144 | +8.0% | Medium |
| Sacramento | $145,885 | +22.0% | Medium |
| Long Beach | $173,388 | +45.0% | Medium |
| Bakersfield | $129,144 | +8.0% | Medium |
| Anaheim | $169,801 | +42.0% | Medium |
| Santa Ana | $167,409 | +40.0% | Medium |
| Riverside | $153,060 | +28.0% | Medium |
| Stockton | $141,102 | +18.0% | Medium |
| Irvine | $185,346 | +55.0% | Medium |
| San Bernardino | $141,102 | +18.0% | Medium |
| Modesto | $133,927 | +12.0% | Medium |
| Fontana | $145,885 | +22.0% | Medium |
| Moreno Valley | $137,515 | +15.0% | Medium |
| Glendale | $176,975 | +48.0% | Medium |
| Fremont | $191,325 | +60.0% | Medium |
California is home to a very strong job market for Chemists. The state's key industries — Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $119,578 per year, California's Chemist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in California (index: 1.42) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in California can expect to earn $75,610–$99,904, while experienced Chemists can command $154,564–$175,724.
Looking ahead, the Chemist profession in California is projected to grow at 2.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Technology continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Chemist salary in California?The average Chemist salary in California is $119,578 per year in 2026, which is 42.0% above the national average of $84,210.
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What city in California pays Chemists the most?San Francisco and San Jose typically pay Chemists the highest wages in California due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is California a good state for Chemists?California has a very strong job market with major industries in Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Chemist employment.
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How does California Chemist salary compare to the US average?At $119,578/year, California Chemist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average of $84,210/year.