Chemists in Colorado
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Colorado | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $97,380 | $84,150 | +15.7% vs US |
| State Rank | #10 of 52 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 1,820 jobs | 83,250 jobs | 2.2% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Colorado
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $58,780 | $28.26 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,540 | $36.32 |
| Median | $97,380 | $46.82 |
| 75th Percentile | $128,040 | $61.56 |
| 90th Percentile | $168,730 | $81.12 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Chemists in Colorado in 2026?
With a median salary of $97,380 in Colorado and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +34.7%, chemists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can chemists increase their salary in Colorado?
Chemists in Colorado can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Colorado currently ranks #10 out of 52 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Chemists in Colorado?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Oil and Gas Extraction | $171,740 |
| Oil and Gas Extraction | $171,740 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $134,430 |
How are Chemists paid in Colorado compared to the national average?
The median salary for Chemists in Colorado is $97,380, which is 15.7% above the national median of $84,150.