Physicist Salary in Hilo, Hawaii
The median physicist salary in Hilo, HI is $231,694 per year, which is 52.0% above the national median and 10.6% below the Hawaii state average.
Physicist Pay in Hilo: What to Expect (2026)
Hilo offers a median physicist salary of $231,694, which is $27,437 below the Hawaii state average of $259,131. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Hilo pays above average for this role.
However, Hilo's cost of living index is 152%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $231,694 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $152,430. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Hilo should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for physicists in Hilo spans from $118,560 at the 10th percentile to $361,760 at the 90th percentile — a $243,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $124,640, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $334,400. Hilo is a smaller market (pop. 45,703), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Physicist Salary in Hilo by Experience
In Hilo, an entry-level physicist earns around $124,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $334,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 152% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Hilo, HI
| Percentile | Hilo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $118,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $164,160 |
| Median (50th) | $231,694 |
| 75th Percentile | $296,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $361,760 |
Physicist Salary in Other Hawaii Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Hilo
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Hilo and the surrounding Hawaii 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 Hilo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Hilo
Browse open physicist positions in Hilo, HI: