Nuclear Engineer Salary in Rhode Island
The median nuclear engineer salary in Rhode Island is $126,399 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $120,380.
Nuclear Engineer Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for nuclear engineer compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for nuclear engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $126,399 per year, nuclear engineers in Rhode Island earn $6,019 more than the national median of $120,380.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning nuclear engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: nuclear engineers at the 10th percentile earn $79,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $186,900 — a $107,100 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $130,010.
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for nuclear engineers across the country.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $81,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $180,600 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,800 |
| Median (50th) | $126,399 |
| 75th Percentile | $155,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $186,900 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for nuclear engineers in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Nuclear Engineer in Rhode Island
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Rhode Island's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Nuclear Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $54,201 over your career trajectory.
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