Science & Research Pennsylvania (PA) Rank #23 of 50

Physicist Salary in Pennsylvania

The median physicist salary in Pennsylvania is $146,333 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $152,430.

Median Salary
$146,333
vs National
$-6,097
State Rank
#23 of 50
Cost of Living
96%

Physicist Salary in Pennsylvania by Experience

In Pennsylvania, an entry-level physicist earns around $78,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $211,200 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$78,720
$-3,280 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$148,800
$-6,200 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$211,200
$-8,800 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania

Percentile PA Salary
10th Percentile $74,880
25th Percentile $103,680
Median (50th) $146,333
75th Percentile $187,200
90th Percentile $228,480

Physicist Salary by City in Pennsylvania

The largest employment areas for physicists in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Physicist in Pennsylvania

Education

Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Mathematical ModelingExperimental PhysicsPython/MATLABData AnalysisScientific WritingLaboratory Equipment

Job Outlook in Pennsylvania

Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Pennsylvania's demand may vary based on local industry trends.