Physicist Salary in Charleston, South Carolina
The median physicist salary in Charleston, SC is $152,430 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the South Carolina state average.
Physicist Pay in Charleston: What to Expect (2026)
Charleston offers a median physicist salary of $152,430, which is $16,767 above the South Carolina state average of $135,663. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Charleston pays above average for this role.
Charleston's cost of living is 100% 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 Charleston spans from $78,000 at the 10th percentile to $238,000 at the 90th percentile — a $160,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $82,000, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $220,000. With a population of 150,227, Charleston is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Charleston by Experience
In Charleston, an entry-level physicist earns around $82,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $220,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Charleston, SC
| Percentile | Charleston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $78,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,000 |
| Median (50th) | $152,430 |
| 75th Percentile | $195,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $238,000 |
Physicist Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Charleston
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Charleston and the surrounding South Carolina 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 Charleston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Charleston
Browse open physicist positions in Charleston, SC: