Physicist Salary in Helena, Montana
The median physicist salary in Helena, MT is $143,284 per year, which is 6% below the national median and 1.1% below the Montana state average.
Physicist Pay in Helena: What to Expect (2026)
Helena offers a median physicist salary of $143,284, which is $1,525 below the Montana state average of $144,809. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Helena pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Helena's cost of living is 94% 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 Helena spans from $73,320 at the 10th percentile to $223,720 at the 90th percentile — a $150,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $77,080, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $206,800. Helena is a smaller market (pop. 32,315), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Physicist Salary in Helena by Experience
In Helena, an entry-level physicist earns around $77,080, while experienced professionals earn up to $206,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 94% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Helena, MT
| Percentile | Helena |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $73,320 |
| 25th Percentile | $101,520 |
| Median (50th) | $143,284 |
| 75th Percentile | $183,300 |
| 90th Percentile | $223,720 |
Physicist Salary in Other Montana Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Helena
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Helena and the surrounding Montana 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 Helena may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Helena
Browse open physicist positions in Helena, MT: