Physicist Salary in Providence, Rhode Island
The median physicist salary in Providence, RI is $164,624 per year, which is 8.0% above the national median and 2.9% above the Rhode Island state average.
Physicist Pay in Providence: What to Expect (2026)
Providence offers a median physicist salary of $164,624, which is $4,572 above the Rhode Island state average of $160,052. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Providence pays above average for this role.
Providence's cost of living is 108% 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 Providence spans from $84,240 at the 10th percentile to $257,040 at the 90th percentile — a $172,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $88,560, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $237,600. With a population of 190,934, Providence is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Providence by Experience
In Providence, an entry-level physicist earns around $88,560, while experienced professionals earn up to $237,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 108% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Providence, RI
| Percentile | Providence |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $84,240 |
| 25th Percentile | $116,640 |
| Median (50th) | $164,624 |
| 75th Percentile | $210,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $257,040 |
Physicist Salary in Other Rhode Island Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Providence
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Providence and the surrounding Rhode Island 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 Providence may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Providence
Browse open physicist positions in Providence, RI: