Biologist vs Chemist: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Biologist
Study living organisms and their interactions with the environment.
Chemist
Conduct chemical research and develop new compounds, materials, and processes.
Chemist earns more on average — the national median is $1,844/year (3%) higher than a Biologist. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Biologist vs Chemist — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Biologist | Chemist | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $104,471 | $104,738 | Biologist $267 |
| New York, NY | $85,420 | $88,925 | Biologist $3,505 |
| Seattle, WA | $104,628 | $102,191 | Biologist +$2,437 |
| Austin, TX | $77,983 | $80,473 | Biologist $2,490 |
| Chicago, IL | $76,685 | $77,615 | Biologist $930 |
| Boston, MA | $92,985 | $97,616 | Biologist $4,631 |
| London, UK | £54,717 | £56,605 | Biologist $1,888 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$95,380 | CA$100,209 | Biologist $4,829 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Biologist or Chemist earn more?+
A Chemist earns more on average. The national median salary for a Biologist is $71,906/year, compared to $73,750/year for a Chemist — a difference of $1,844 (3%).
Which has better career growth — Biologist or Chemist?+
Biologist roles are growing at 6% YoY while Chemist demand is growing at 5% YoY. Biologist has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Biologist to Chemist?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Biologist or Chemist?+
Biologist has a lower AI automation risk (32% vs 38%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.