Physicist Salary in Memphis, Tennessee
The median physicist salary in Memphis, TN is $131,090 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 3.4% below the Tennessee state average.
Physicist Pay in Memphis: What to Expect (2026)
Memphis offers a median physicist salary of $131,090, which is $4,573 below the Tennessee state average of $135,663. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Memphis pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Memphis's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 86% of the national average. This means the $131,090 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $152,430 in an average-cost city. This makes Memphis an attractive option for physicists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for physicists in Memphis spans from $67,080 at the 10th percentile to $204,680 at the 90th percentile — a $137,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $70,520, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $189,200. As a major metro area with a population of 633,104, Memphis typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Physicist Salary in Memphis by Experience
In Memphis, 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.
Salary Percentiles in Memphis, TN
| Percentile | Memphis |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $67,080 |
| 25th Percentile | $92,880 |
| Median (50th) | $131,090 |
| 75th Percentile | $167,700 |
| 90th Percentile | $204,680 |
Physicist Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Memphis
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Memphis and the surrounding Tennessee 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 Memphis may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Memphis
Browse open physicist positions in Memphis, TN: