Physicist Salary in Missoula, Montana
The median physicist salary in Missoula, MT is $155,479 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 7.4% above the Montana state average.
Physicist Pay in Missoula: What to Expect (2026)
Missoula offers a median physicist salary of $155,479, which is $10,670 above the Montana state average of $144,809. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Missoula pays above average for this role.
Missoula's cost of living is 102% 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 Missoula spans from $79,560 at the 10th percentile to $242,760 at the 90th percentile — a $163,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $83,640, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $224,400. Missoula is a smaller market (pop. 75,516), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Physicist Salary in Missoula by Experience
In Missoula, an entry-level physicist earns around $83,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $224,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Missoula, MT
| Percentile | Missoula |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $110,160 |
| Median (50th) | $155,479 |
| 75th Percentile | $198,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $242,760 |
Physicist Salary in Other Montana Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Missoula
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Missoula 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 Missoula may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Missoula
Browse open physicist positions in Missoula, MT: