Physicist Salary in Illinois
The median physicist salary in Illinois is $144,809 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $152,430.
Physicist Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for physicist compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for physicist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $144,809 per year, physicists in Illinois earn $7,621 less than the national median of $152,430.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning physicist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: physicists at the 10th percentile earn $74,100, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $226,100 — a $152,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Illinois for this role is Naperville, where the median reaches $164,624.
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for physicists across the country.
Physicist Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level physicist earns around $77,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $209,000 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $74,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,600 |
| Median (50th) | $144,809 |
| 75th Percentile | $185,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $226,100 |
Physicist Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for physicists in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Physicist in Illinois
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physicists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $64,191 over your career trajectory.
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