Physicists vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists: Who Earns More?
Physicistss out-earn Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss by $82K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Physicistss land at $172,250 and Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss at $90,150. The education gap is real: physicist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while occupational health and safety specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Physicistss is Florida ($225,390); for Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss it's District of Columbia ($111,530).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Physicists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Physicistss or Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss?
Physicistss earn more nationally. The median is $172,250 for Physicistss versus $90,150 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss, a difference of $82K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Physicists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Physicists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Physicists typically requires bachelor's degree. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Physicistss get paid the most?
Florida is the top-paying state for Physicistss at $225,390/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Physicists vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New Hampshire, Physicistss earn $214,030 vs. $101,260 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.