Physicist Salary in Lexington, Kentucky
The median physicist salary in Lexington, KY is $141,760 per year, which is 7% below the national median and 6.9% above the Kentucky state average.
Physicist Pay in Lexington: What to Expect (2026)
Lexington offers a median physicist salary of $141,760, which is $9,146 above the Kentucky state average of $132,614. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Lexington pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Lexington's cost of living is 93% 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 Lexington spans from $72,540 at the 10th percentile to $221,340 at the 90th percentile — a $148,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $76,260, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $204,600. With a population of 322,570, Lexington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Lexington by Experience
In Lexington, an entry-level physicist earns around $76,260, while experienced professionals earn up to $204,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 93% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Lexington, KY
| Percentile | Lexington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $100,440 |
| Median (50th) | $141,760 |
| 75th Percentile | $181,350 |
| 90th Percentile | $221,340 |
Physicist Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Lexington
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Lexington and the surrounding Kentucky 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 Lexington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Lexington
Browse open physicist positions in Lexington, KY: