Science & Research Sacramento, CA
Pop. 524,943
Physicist Salary in Sacramento, California
The median physicist salary in Sacramento, CA is $179,867 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 14.5% below the California state average.
City Median
$179,867
vs State Avg
$-30,486
vs National
+$27,437
Cost of Living
118%
Physicist Salary in Sacramento by Experience
In Sacramento, an entry-level physicist earns around $96,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $259,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$96,760
+$14,760 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$182,900
+$27,900 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$259,600
+$39,600 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Sacramento, CA
| Percentile | Sacramento |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $92,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $127,440 |
| Median (50th) | $179,867 |
| 75th Percentile | $230,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $280,840 |
Physicist Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Sacramento
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Sacramento 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 Sacramento may vary based on local industry and population growth.