Physicists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 21,340 physicists, and they earn a median of $166,290/year. The range runs from starting around $80K. Minnesota pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level physicists start around $80K. The gap between that and the median ($166K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $223K | 60 |
| Florida | $209K | 240 |
| Pennsylvania | $208K | 540 |
| Arizona | $191K | 70 |
| Oregon | $184K | 120 |
| California | $181K | 6,220 |
| Missouri | $180K | 90 |
| New Hampshire | $179K | 30 |
| New Mexico | $176K | 770 |
| New York | $174K | 1,190 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physicists make?▼
The median physicists salary in the United States is $166,290 per year ($80/hour). Entry-level positions start around $80,020, while experienced professionals earn up to $0.
What education do you need to become a physicists?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for physicists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for physicists.
What are the highest paying states for physicists?▼
The highest paying states for physicists are Minnesota ($222,550), Florida ($209,020), Pennsylvania ($208,470), Arizona ($190,960), Oregon ($183,860). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.