Physicist Salary in Aurora, Illinois
The median physicist salary in Aurora, IL is $144,809 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 0.0% above the Illinois state average.
Physicist Pay in Aurora: What to Expect (2026)
Aurora offers a median physicist salary of $144,809, which is $0 above the Illinois state average of $144,809. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Aurora pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Aurora's cost of living is 95% 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 Aurora spans from $74,100 at the 10th percentile to $226,100 at the 90th percentile — a $152,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $77,900, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $209,000. With a population of 197,757, Aurora is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Aurora by Experience
In Aurora, an entry-level physicist earns around $77,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $209,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Aurora, IL
| Percentile | Aurora |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $74,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,600 |
| Median (50th) | $144,809 |
| 75th Percentile | $185,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $226,100 |
Physicist Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Aurora
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Aurora and the surrounding Illinois 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 Aurora may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Aurora
Browse open physicist positions in Aurora, IL: