Physicist Salary in Rochester, New York
The median physicist salary in Rochester, NY is $137,187 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 26.2% below the New York state average.
Physicist Pay in Rochester: What to Expect (2026)
Rochester offers a median physicist salary of $137,187, which is $48,778 below the New York state average of $185,965. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Rochester pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Rochester's cost of living is 90% 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 Rochester spans from $70,200 at the 10th percentile to $214,200 at the 90th percentile — a $144,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $73,800, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $198,000. With a population of 211,328, Rochester is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Rochester by Experience
In Rochester, an entry-level physicist earns around $73,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $198,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Rochester, NY
| Percentile | Rochester |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $70,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,200 |
| Median (50th) | $137,187 |
| 75th Percentile | $175,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $214,200 |
Physicist Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Rochester
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Rochester 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 Rochester may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Rochester
Browse open physicist positions in Rochester, NY: