Chemist Jobs in Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina$82,925 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: May 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Chemist Jobs in Charleston

Looking for a Chemist job in Charleston? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Chemist in Charleston, SC.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Charleston has a strong job market for Chemists. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Chemist Salary in Charleston

Entry Level
$50,023
Median
$82,925
Senior Level
$123,050

Chemist salaries in Charleston are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Charleston is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Laboratory TechniquesAnalytical ChemistryQuality ControlData AnalysisResearch Methods

Chemist Job Market in Charleston

Charleston, SC is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Chemist professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Charleston offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Technology leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Chemist roles across various sectors. The market for Chemist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Chemists in Charleston

City of CharlestonCharleston County SchoolsCARTA

Major employers hiring Chemists in Charleston include City of Charleston, Charleston County Schools, CARTA. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Chemists in Charleston

Living in Charleston as a Chemist means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,700/month. Housing costs are manageable for Chemist salaries in the area. Suburban apartments average $1,300/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

107
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.7K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Chemist in Charleston

Charleston Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Chemists in Charleston: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Chemist professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in South Carolina

South Carolina has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Chemists

The job outlook for Chemists in Charleston is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Charleston offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Laboratory Techniques, Analytical Chemistry, Quality Control, Data Analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Chemist salary in Charleston, SC?

The average Chemist salary in Charleston, SC is $82,925 per year. Entry-level Chemists typically start around $50,023, while experienced professionals can earn $123,050 or more. The national average for Chemist roles is $77,500.

How many Chemist jobs are available in Charleston?

Charleston has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Chemist professionals. Major employers hiring Chemists include City of Charleston, Charleston County Schools, CARTA. The Technology and Tourism sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Charleston a good city for Chemists?

Charleston is an excellent choice for Chemists. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for science professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Chemists in Charleston?

Top skills for Chemists in Charleston include Laboratory Techniques, Analytical Chemistry, Quality Control, Data Analysis, Research Methods. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork. Relevant certifications like American Chemical Society certification can strengthen your candidacy.

What is the cost of living for Chemists in Charleston?

Charleston's cost of living is near the national average (107% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,700/month. Purchasing power in Charleston is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Chemists in Charleston?

Charleston Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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