Physicist Salary in Tucson, Arizona
The median physicist salary in Tucson, AZ is $141,760 per year, which is 7% below the national median and 4.1% below the Arizona state average.
Physicist Pay in Tucson: What to Expect (2026)
Tucson offers a median physicist salary of $141,760, which is $6,097 below the Arizona state average of $147,857. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Tucson pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Tucson's cost of living is 93% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for physicists in Tucson spans from $72,540 at the 10th percentile to $221,340 at the 90th percentile — a $148,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $76,260, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $204,600. As a major metro area with a population of 542,629, Tucson typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Physicist Salary in Tucson by Experience
In Tucson, an entry-level physicist earns around $76,260, while experienced professionals earn up to $204,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 93% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tucson, AZ
| Percentile | Tucson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,440 |
| Median (50th) | $141,760 |
| 75th Percentile | $181,350 |
| 90th Percentile | $221,340 |
Physicist Salary in Other Arizona Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Tucson
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Tucson and the surrounding Arizona 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 Tucson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Tucson
Browse open physicist positions in Tucson, AZ: