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How much does a Biochemist make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Biochemist in the United States is $77,701 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $37.

However, a Biochemist's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $91,647
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $70,801 to $85,001
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $64,519

Key Factors That Influence Biochemist Salaries

A Biochemist's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

Top Paying Cities for Biochemists

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $97,901
  • San Francisco: $96,901
  • Oakland: $94,801

What Skills Can Increase a Biochemist's Salary?

Demanded Skills for the Role:

  • Analysis (Mentioned in 7.5% Job Postings): Analysis is the process of considering something carefully or using statistical methods in order to understand it or explain it.
  • Material Science (Mentioned in 2.93% Job Postings): Analyzing the properties of materials and using that information to build various products.
  • Cell Biology (Mentioned in 1.96% Job Postings): Utilizing techniques to study cell structures and functions for further research on human anatomy, physiology, and medications.
Skills Demand Percentage
Analysis 7.5%
Material Science 2.93%
Cell Biology 1.96%

Biochemist Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Biochemist salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $77,701. While startup companies pay approximate $77,701.

Biochemist Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $77,701
Growth Stage 51~500 $77,701
Established 501~5000 $77,701
Enterprise 5000+ $77,701

Biochemist Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Biochemist's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on September 01, 2026
$70,801
Average $77,701/year
$85,001
$5,900
Average $6,475/month
$7,083
$1,362
Average $1,494/week
$1,635
$34
Average $37/hour
$41
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $85,001 $7,083 $1,635 $41
Average $77,701 $6,475 $1,494 $37
25th Percentile $70,801 $5,900 $1,362 $34

Biochemist Salary Growth & Career Path

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Biochemist, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

Biochemist Salary Growth and Career Path
Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Pharmacokineticist III $111,200 43%
Bioinformatician III $110,700 42%
Senior Biochemist $84,101 8%
Biophysics Scientist $77,501 0%

Most common benefits for Biochemist

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

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FAQ about Biochemist

1. Is biochemist a stressful job?

Biochemists generally do not find their jobs to be stressful, which likely enhances their career satisfaction. With salaries ranging from $68,201 to $81,901, the financial stability may also contribute to a more balanced work-life experience, allowing them to focus on their research and projects without excessive pressure.

2. What is the highest paid PhD degree?

The highest paid PhD degree can vary by field, but biochemists often earn competitive salaries. According to recent data, the minimum salary for a biochemist is approximately $68,201, with a mid-range salary of about $74,801, and a maximum salary reaching around $81,901. This reflects the potential for lucrative earnings in this scientific discipline.

3. Is biochemistry a hard major?

Biochemistry can be a challenging major due to its complex concepts and the need for strong analytical skills. However, many students find it rewarding, especially considering the potential salary range for biochemists, which typically starts at around $68,201, with a mid-salary of $74,801 and a maximum of $81,901. This financial incentive can motivate students to persevere through the difficulties.

4. Is biochemistry a good career in USA?

Biochemistry is a promising career in the USA, offering flexibility and competitive salaries. Currently, biochemists earn between $68,201 and $81,901, with a median salary of $74,801. With 30,366 biochemists employed and a 15% wage increase over the past five years, the field continues to grow and provide rewarding opportunities.

5. What state pays biochemists the most?

The states that pay Biochemists the highest mean salary include California, Massachusetts, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Michigan. However, the salary range for Biochemists generally falls between $68,201 and $81,901, with a mid-salary of $74,801. This indicates that while some states offer higher salaries, the overall compensation can vary significantly.

6. What jobs can a biochemist get?

Career roles to pursue with a bachelor's degree in biochemistry include Laboratory Technician, Biological Technician, Junior Scientist, Research Analyst, Data Analyst, and Data Coordinator. Salaries for biochemists typically range from $68,201 to $81,901, with a mid-salary of $74,801, reflecting the diverse opportunities in this field.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

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