Chemist vs Environmental Scientist: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Chemist
Conduct chemical research and develop new compounds, materials, and processes.
Environmental Scientist
Study environmental issues and develop solutions to protect ecosystems.
Chemist earns more on average — the national median is $7,375/year (11%) higher than a Environmental Scientist. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Chemist vs Environmental Scientist — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Chemist | Environmental Scientist | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $104,738 | $93,981 | Chemist +$10,757 |
| New York, NY | $88,925 | $79,495 | Chemist +$9,430 |
| Seattle, WA | $102,191 | $96,917 | Chemist +$5,274 |
| Austin, TX | $80,473 | $72,941 | Chemist +$7,532 |
| Chicago, IL | $77,615 | $69,521 | Chemist +$8,094 |
| Boston, MA | $97,616 | $87,770 | Chemist +$9,846 |
| London, UK | £56,605 | £51,309 | Chemist +$5,296 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$100,209 | CA$89,843 | Chemist +$10,366 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Chemist or Environmental Scientist earn more?+
A Chemist earns more on average. The national median salary for a Chemist is $73,750/year, compared to $66,375/year for a Environmental Scientist — a difference of $7,375 (11%).
Which has better career growth — Chemist or Environmental Scientist?+
Chemist roles are growing at 5% YoY while Environmental Scientist demand is growing at 7% YoY. Environmental Scientist has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Chemist to Environmental Scientist?+
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 — Chemist or Environmental Scientist?+
Environmental Scientist has a lower AI automation risk (35% vs 38%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.