Physicist Salary in Rhode Island
The median physicist salary in Rhode Island is $160,052 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $152,430.
Physicist Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for physicist compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for physicist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $160,052 per year, physicists in Rhode Island earn $7,622 more than the national median of $152,430.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning physicist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: physicists at the 10th percentile earn $81,900, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $249,900 — a $168,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $164,624.
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for physicists across the country.
Physicist Salary in Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level physicist earns around $86,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $231,000 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $81,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,400 |
| Median (50th) | $160,052 |
| 75th Percentile | $204,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $249,900 |
Physicist Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for physicists in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Physicist in Rhode Island
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Rhode Island's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physicists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $70,948 over your career trajectory.
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