Chemistry textbooks, along with other scientific and mathematical textbooks, are some of the most expensive of all academic textbooks. Because of the nature of the subject, which requires intricate diagrams and illustrations to be effectively taught, the books are typically large, heavy volumes with thick spines. Academic publishers have done their best to reduce the cost of these books, but in certain aspects of publishing and printing, they are obliged to spend a lot and, therefore, charge a lot.

Chemistry textbooks are written by professors and academics in the field. They will typically update existing books with new findings rather than write entirely new books. In this way, the particular edition of a chemistry textbook is important to note, particularly if specifically assigned for a class. Older editions may be used, though some material may be missing.

Chemistry textbooks are very beautiful books, even for those not familiar with the subject matter. The heavy-bound paper and full-color illustrations that look like geometric abstractions have an intrinsic appeal for anybody interested in books or art. Whether anybody would buy them for this reason alone is debatable, but the high quality of chemistry textbooks should be noted.

At the high school level, general chemistry textbooks are used. As a student advances into university and graduate work, the field becomes more specified. Subsets of chemistry include molecular chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, organic chemistry, astrochemistry, and more. Individual textbooks may be required for each field.