Physicist Salary in Tampa, Florida
The median physicist salary in Tampa, FL is $152,430 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 2.0% above the Florida state average.
Physicist Pay in Tampa: What to Expect (2026)
Tampa offers a median physicist salary of $152,430, which is $3,049 above the Florida state average of $149,381. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Tampa pays above average for this role.
Tampa's cost of living is 100% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for physicists in Tampa spans from $78,000 at the 10th percentile to $238,000 at the 90th percentile — a $160,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $82,000, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $220,000. With a population of 384,959, Tampa is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Tampa by Experience
In Tampa, an entry-level physicist earns around $82,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $220,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tampa, FL
| Percentile | Tampa |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $78,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,000 |
| Median (50th) | $152,430 |
| 75th Percentile | $195,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $238,000 |
Physicist Salary in Other Florida Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Tampa
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Tampa and the surrounding Florida 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 Tampa may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Tampa
Browse open physicist positions in Tampa, FL: