Physicist Salary in Buffalo, New York
The median physicist salary in Buffalo, NY is $140,236 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 24.6% below the New York state average.
Physicist Pay in Buffalo: What to Expect (2026)
Buffalo offers a median physicist salary of $140,236, which is $45,729 below the New York state average of $185,965. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Buffalo pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Buffalo's cost of living is 92% 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 Buffalo spans from $71,760 at the 10th percentile to $218,960 at the 90th percentile — a $147,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $75,440, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $202,400. With a population of 278,349, Buffalo is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Buffalo by Experience
In Buffalo, an entry-level physicist earns around $75,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $202,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Buffalo, NY
| Percentile | Buffalo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $71,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,360 |
| Median (50th) | $140,236 |
| 75th Percentile | $179,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $218,960 |
Physicist Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Buffalo
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Buffalo and the surrounding New York 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 Buffalo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Buffalo
Browse open physicist positions in Buffalo, NY: