Science & Research San Jose, CA
Pop. 1,013,240
Physicist Salary in San Jose, California
The median physicist salary in San Jose, CA is $256,082 per year, which is 68.0% above the national median and 21.7% above the California state average.
City Median
$256,082
vs State Avg
+$45,729
vs National
+$103,652
Cost of Living
168%
Physicist Salary in San Jose by Experience
In San Jose, an entry-level physicist earns around $137,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $369,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 168% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$137,760
+$55,760 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$260,400
+$105,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$369,600
+$149,600 vs national
Salary Percentiles in San Jose, CA
| Percentile | San Jose |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $131,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $181,440 |
| Median (50th) | $256,082 |
| 75th Percentile | $327,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $399,840 |
Physicist Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Physicist in San Jose
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. San Jose 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 San Jose may vary based on local industry and population growth.