Science & Research Columbia, MO Pop. 126,254

Physicist Salary in Columbia, Missouri

The median physicist salary in Columbia, MO is $134,138 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 0.0% above the Missouri state average.

City Median
$134,138
vs State Avg
+$0
vs National
$-18,292
Cost of Living
88%

Physicist Salary in Columbia by Experience

In Columbia, an entry-level physicist earns around $72,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $193,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$72,160
$-9,840 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$136,400
$-18,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$193,600
$-26,400 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MO

Percentile Columbia
10th Percentile $68,640
25th Percentile $95,040
Median (50th) $134,138
75th Percentile $171,600
90th Percentile $209,440

Physicist Salary in Other Missouri Cities

Kansas City, MO
$140,236
Pop. 508,090
Saint Louis, MO
$137,187
Pop. 301,578
Independence, MO
$129,566
Pop. 123,011
Springfield, MO
$124,993
Pop. 169,176

How to Become a Physicist in Columbia

Education

Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Columbia and the surrounding Missouri area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Mathematical ModelingExperimental PhysicsPython/MATLABData AnalysisScientific WritingLaboratory Equipment

Job Outlook

Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.