Science & Research Los Angeles, CA Pop. 3,898,747

Physicist Salary in Los Angeles, California

The median physicist salary in Los Angeles, CA is $222,548 per year, which is 46.0% above the national median and 5.8% above the California state average.

City Median
$222,548
vs State Avg
+$12,195
vs National
+$70,118
Cost of Living
146%

Physicist Salary in Los Angeles by Experience

In Los Angeles, an entry-level physicist earns around $119,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $321,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 146% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$119,720
+$37,720 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$226,300
+$71,300 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$321,200
+$101,200 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Los Angeles, CA

Percentile Los Angeles
10th Percentile $113,880
25th Percentile $157,680
Median (50th) $222,548
75th Percentile $284,700
90th Percentile $347,480

Physicist Salary in Other California Cities

How to Become a Physicist in Los Angeles

Education

Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Los Angeles and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Mathematical ModelingExperimental PhysicsPython/MATLABData AnalysisScientific WritingLaboratory Equipment

Job Outlook

Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Los Angeles may vary based on local industry and population growth.