Physicist Salary in Reno, Nevada
The median physicist salary in Reno, NV is $158,527 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median and 7.2% above the Nevada state average.
Physicist Pay in Reno: What to Expect (2026)
Reno offers a median physicist salary of $158,527, which is $10,670 above the Nevada state average of $147,857. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Reno pays above average for this role.
Reno's cost of living is 104% 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 Reno spans from $81,120 at the 10th percentile to $247,520 at the 90th percentile — a $166,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $85,280, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $228,800. With a population of 264,165, Reno is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Reno by Experience
In Reno, an entry-level physicist earns around $85,280, while experienced professionals earn up to $228,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 104% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Reno, NV
| Percentile | Reno |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $81,120 |
| 25th Percentile | $112,320 |
| Median (50th) | $158,527 |
| 75th Percentile | $202,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $247,520 |
Physicist Salary in Other Nevada Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Reno
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Reno and the surrounding Nevada 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 Reno may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Reno
Browse open physicist positions in Reno, NV: