Physicist Salary in Ann Arbor, Michigan
The median physicist salary in Ann Arbor, MI is $160,052 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 16.7% above the Michigan state average.
Physicist Pay in Ann Arbor: What to Expect (2026)
Ann Arbor offers a median physicist salary of $160,052, which is $22,865 above the Michigan state average of $137,187. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Ann Arbor pays above average for this role.
Ann Arbor's cost of living is 105% 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 Ann Arbor spans from $81,900 at the 10th percentile to $249,900 at the 90th percentile — a $168,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $86,100, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $231,000. With a population of 123,851, Ann Arbor is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Ann Arbor by Experience
In Ann Arbor, an entry-level physicist earns around $86,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $231,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Ann Arbor, MI
| Percentile | Ann Arbor |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $81,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,400 |
| Median (50th) | $160,052 |
| 75th Percentile | $204,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $249,900 |
Physicist Salary in Other Michigan Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Ann Arbor
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Ann Arbor and the surrounding Michigan 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 Ann Arbor may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Ann Arbor
Browse open physicist positions in Ann Arbor, MI: