Physicist Salary in Chicago, Illinois
The median physicist salary in Chicago, IL is $163,100 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.
Physicist Pay in Chicago: What to Expect (2026)
Chicago offers a median physicist salary of $163,100, which is $18,291 above the Illinois state average of $144,809. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Chicago pays above average for this role.
Chicago's cost of living is 107% 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 Chicago spans from $83,460 at the 10th percentile to $254,660 at the 90th percentile — a $171,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $87,740, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $235,400. As a major metro area with a population of 2,693,976, Chicago typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Physicist Salary in Chicago by Experience
In Chicago, an entry-level physicist earns around $87,740, while experienced professionals earn up to $235,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL
| Percentile | Chicago |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $83,460 |
| 25th Percentile | $115,560 |
| Median (50th) | $163,100 |
| 75th Percentile | $208,650 |
| 90th Percentile | $254,660 |
Physicist Salary in Other Illinois Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Chicago
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Chicago 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 Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Chicago
Browse open physicist positions in Chicago, IL: