Physicist Salary in Cambridge, Massachusetts
The median physicist salary in Cambridge, MA is $243,888 per year, which is 60.0% above the national median and 18.5% above the Massachusetts state average.
Physicist Pay in Cambridge: What to Expect (2026)
Cambridge offers a median physicist salary of $243,888, which is $38,107 above the Massachusetts state average of $205,781. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Cambridge pays above average for this role.
However, Cambridge's cost of living index is 160%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $243,888 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $152,430. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Cambridge should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for physicists in Cambridge spans from $124,800 at the 10th percentile to $380,800 at the 90th percentile — a $256,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $131,200, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $352,000. With a population of 118,403, Cambridge is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Cambridge by Experience
In Cambridge, an entry-level physicist earns around $131,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $352,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 160% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Cambridge, MA
| Percentile | Cambridge |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $124,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $172,800 |
| Median (50th) | $243,888 |
| 75th Percentile | $312,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $380,800 |
Physicist Salary in Other Massachusetts Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Cambridge
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Cambridge and the surrounding Massachusetts 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 Cambridge may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Cambridge
Browse open physicist positions in Cambridge, MA: