Physicist Salary in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
The median physicist salary in Tuscaloosa, AL is $134,138 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% above the Alabama state average.
Physicist Pay in Tuscaloosa: What to Expect (2026)
Tuscaloosa offers a median physicist salary of $134,138, which is $1,524 above the Alabama state average of $132,614. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Tuscaloosa pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Tuscaloosa's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $134,138 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $152,430 in an average-cost city. This makes Tuscaloosa an attractive option for physicists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for physicists in Tuscaloosa spans from $68,640 at the 10th percentile to $209,440 at the 90th percentile — a $140,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $72,160, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $193,600. With a population of 101,129, Tuscaloosa is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Tuscaloosa by Experience
In Tuscaloosa, an entry-level physicist earns around $72,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $193,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tuscaloosa, AL
| Percentile | Tuscaloosa |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $68,640 |
| 25th Percentile | $95,040 |
| Median (50th) | $134,138 |
| 75th Percentile | $171,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $209,440 |
Physicist Salary in Other Alabama Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Tuscaloosa
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Tuscaloosa and the surrounding Alabama area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Tuscaloosa may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Tuscaloosa
Browse open physicist positions in Tuscaloosa, AL: