How to Become a Chemists in California
Chemists in California earn a median salary of $97,010/year, which is 15% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.3%. After taxes and rent, a chemists takes home approximately $4,544/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a chemists can afford in California
Becoming a chemists in California
Meet education requirements
Chemists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many chemists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for chemistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 8,480 chemists. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Chemists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $126K | $60.67/hr | 2,040 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $110K | $52.87/hr | 500 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $99K | $47.4/hr | 1,110 |
| Vallejo | $97K | $46.78/hr | 60 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $92K | $44.32/hr | 70 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $91K | $43.59/hr | 190 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $89K | $42.59/hr | 400 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $87K | $41.73/hr | 30 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $84K | $40.16/hr | 350 |
| Napa | $83K | $40/hr | 60 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $82K | $39.6/hr | 2,700 |
| Modesto | $81K | $39.03/hr | 90 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $81K | $38.75/hr | 90 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $80K | $38.39/hr | 60 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $79K | $38.05/hr | 180 |
Chemists salary range in California
Chemists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a chemists make in California?▼
The median chemists salary in California is $97,010 per year ($46.64/hr). This is 15% above the national median of $84,150. Salaries range from $58,750 to $164,640.
What are the requirements to become a chemists in California?▼
Chemists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a chemists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $97,010, a chemists in California would take home approximately $5,956/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 23.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for chemists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for chemists in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($126,190), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($109,960), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($98,600). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for chemists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.3%. On a $97,010 salary, this means roughly $5,160/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.