Science & Research Boulder, CO
Pop. 105,673
Physicist Salary in Boulder, Colorado
The median physicist salary in Boulder, CO is $195,110 per year, which is 28.0% above the national median and 21.9% above the Colorado state average.
City Median
$195,110
vs State Avg
+$35,058
vs National
+$42,680
Cost of Living
128%
Physicist Salary in Boulder by Experience
In Boulder, an entry-level physicist earns around $104,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $281,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 128% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$104,960
+$22,960 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$198,400
+$43,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$281,600
+$61,600 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Boulder, CO
| Percentile | Boulder |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $99,840 |
| 25th Percentile | $138,240 |
| Median (50th) | $195,110 |
| 75th Percentile | $249,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $304,640 |
Physicist Salary in Other Colorado Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Boulder
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Boulder and the surrounding Colorado 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 Boulder may vary based on local industry and population growth.