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.
Physicist Pay in Sacramento: What to Expect (2026)
Sacramento offers a median physicist salary of $179,867, which is $30,486 below the California state average of $210,353. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Sacramento pays above average for this role.
However, Sacramento's cost of living index is 118%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $179,867 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $152,430. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Sacramento should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for physicists in Sacramento spans from $92,040 at the 10th percentile to $280,840 at the 90th percentile — a $188,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $96,760, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $259,600. As a major metro area with a population of 524,943, Sacramento typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
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.
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
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.
Find Physicist Jobs in Sacramento
Browse open physicist positions in Sacramento, CA: