Science & Research Brookings, SD
Pop. 24,194
Physicist Salary in Brookings, South Dakota
The median physicist salary in Brookings, SD is $131,090 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 2.3% below the South Dakota state average.
City Median
$131,090
vs State Avg
$-3,048
vs National
$-21,340
Cost of Living
86%
Physicist Salary in Brookings by Experience
In Brookings, an entry-level physicist earns around $70,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $189,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$70,520
$-11,480 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$133,300
$-21,700 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$189,200
$-30,800 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Brookings, SD
| Percentile | Brookings |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $67,080 |
| 25th Percentile | $92,880 |
| Median (50th) | $131,090 |
| 75th Percentile | $167,700 |
| 90th Percentile | $204,680 |
Physicist Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Brookings
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Brookings and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Mathematical ModelingExperimental PhysicsPython/MATLABData AnalysisScientific WritingLaboratory Equipment
Job Outlook
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Brookings may vary based on local industry and population growth.