Entertainment, tech, aerospace — sprawling and high-paying. Here's how Chemical Engineers in Los Angeles get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Los Angeles metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $115,200 | $87,600 | $149,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $143,200 | $108,900 | $186,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $164,700 | $125,200 | $214,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $197,600 | $150,200 | $257,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $223,900 | $170,200 | $291,300 |
Highest-paying metros for Chemical Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Los Angeles metro economy.
The average Chemical Engineer salary in the Los Angeles metro is $164,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $125,200 to $214,200 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $271,800 or more.
Yes — Los Angeles pays +1% relative to the California state median for Chemical Engineers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Los Angeles vs. national: +32%. That puts Los Angeles among the stronger US markets for Chemical Engineers — though cost of living in Los Angeles is also typically elevated.
In Los Angeles, the median Chemical Engineer salary of $164,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Chemical Engineers in Los Angeles start around $115,200, while seniors (10+ years) reach $197,600 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
Get my personal salary report →