Physicist Salary in Salem, Oregon
The median physicist salary in Salem, OR is $155,479 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 7.3% below the Oregon state average.
Physicist Pay in Salem: What to Expect (2026)
Salem offers a median physicist salary of $155,479, which is $12,194 below the Oregon state average of $167,673. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Salem pays above average for this role.
Salem's cost of living is 102% 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 Salem spans from $79,560 at the 10th percentile to $242,760 at the 90th percentile — a $163,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $83,640, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $224,400. With a population of 175,535, Salem is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Salem by Experience
In Salem, an entry-level physicist earns around $83,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $224,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Salem, OR
| Percentile | Salem |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $110,160 |
| Median (50th) | $155,479 |
| 75th Percentile | $198,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $242,760 |
Physicist Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Salem
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Salem 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 Salem may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Salem
Browse open physicist positions in Salem, OR: