Science & Research Chattanooga, TN Pop. 181,099

Physicist Salary in Chattanooga, Tennessee

The median physicist salary in Chattanooga, TN is $134,138 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% below the Tennessee state average.

City Median
$134,138
vs State Avg
$-1,525
vs National
$-18,292
Cost of Living
88%

Physicist Salary in Chattanooga by Experience

In Chattanooga, an entry-level physicist earns around $72,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $193,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$72,160
$-9,840 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$136,400
$-18,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$193,600
$-26,400 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chattanooga, TN

Percentile Chattanooga
10th Percentile $68,640
25th Percentile $95,040
Median (50th) $134,138
75th Percentile $171,600
90th Percentile $209,440

Physicist Salary in Other Tennessee Cities

How to Become a Physicist in Chattanooga

Education

Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Chattanooga and the surrounding Tennessee 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 Chattanooga may vary based on local industry and population growth.