Science & Research Durham, NC
Pop. 283,506
Physicist Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median physicist salary in Durham, NC is $144,809 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
City Median
$144,809
vs State Avg
+$4,573
vs National
$-7,621
Cost of Living
95%
Physicist Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level physicist earns around $77,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $209,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$77,900
$-4,100 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$147,250
$-7,750 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$209,000
$-11,000 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $74,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,600 |
| Median (50th) | $144,809 |
| 75th Percentile | $185,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $226,100 |
Physicist Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Durham
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Mathematical ModelingExperimental PhysicsPython/MATLABData AnalysisScientific WritingLaboratory Equipment
Job Outlook
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.