Physicist Salary in Topeka, Kansas
The median physicist salary in Topeka, KS is $126,517 per year, which is 17% below the national median and 4.6% below the Kansas state average.
Physicist Pay in Topeka: What to Expect (2026)
Topeka offers a median physicist salary of $126,517, which is $6,097 below the Kansas state average of $132,614. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Topeka pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Topeka's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 83% of the national average. This means the $126,517 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $152,430 in an average-cost city. This makes Topeka an attractive option for physicists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for physicists in Topeka spans from $64,740 at the 10th percentile to $197,540 at the 90th percentile — a $132,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $68,060, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $182,600. With a population of 127,473, Topeka is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Topeka by Experience
In Topeka, an entry-level physicist earns around $68,060, while experienced professionals earn up to $182,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 83% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Topeka, KS
| Percentile | Topeka |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $64,740 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,640 |
| Median (50th) | $126,517 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,850 |
| 90th Percentile | $197,540 |
Physicist Salary in Other Kansas Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Topeka
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Topeka and the surrounding Kansas 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 Topeka may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Topeka
Browse open physicist positions in Topeka, KS: