Physicist Salary in Portland, Oregon
The median physicist salary in Portland, OR is $179,867 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 7.3% above the Oregon state average.
Physicist Pay in Portland: What to Expect (2026)
Portland offers a median physicist salary of $179,867, which is $12,194 above the Oregon state average of $167,673. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Portland pays above average for this role.
However, Portland's cost of living index is 118%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $179,867 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $152,430. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Portland should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for physicists in Portland spans from $92,040 at the 10th percentile to $280,840 at the 90th percentile — a $188,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $96,760, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $259,600. As a major metro area with a population of 652,503, Portland typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Physicist Salary in Portland by Experience
In Portland, an entry-level physicist earns around $96,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $259,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Portland, OR
| Percentile | Portland |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $92,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $127,440 |
| Median (50th) | $179,867 |
| 75th Percentile | $230,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $280,840 |
Physicist Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Portland
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Portland and the surrounding Oregon 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 Portland may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Portland
Browse open physicist positions in Portland, OR: