Physicist Salary in Maryland
The median physicist salary in Maryland is $167,673 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $152,430.
Physicist Salary Overview in Maryland (2026)
Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for physicist compensation. This places Maryland in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for physicists seeking high pay. At $167,673 per year, physicists in Maryland earn $15,243 more than the national median of $152,430.
It's worth noting that Maryland's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $167,673 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $152,430.
The salary spread in Maryland is significant: physicists at the 10th percentile earn $85,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $261,800 — a $176,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Maryland for this role is Silver Spring, where the median reaches $185,965.
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 Maryland by Experience
In Maryland, an entry-level physicist earns around $90,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $242,000 per year. The cost of living index in Maryland is 110% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Maryland
| Percentile | MD Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $85,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $118,800 |
| Median (50th) | $167,673 |
| 75th Percentile | $214,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $261,800 |
Physicist Salary by City in Maryland
The largest employment areas for physicists in Maryland include Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, and Germantown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Physicist in Maryland
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Maryland has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Maryland
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Maryland'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 $74,327 over your career trajectory.
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