Physicist Salary in Austin, Texas
The median physicist salary in Austin, TX is $160,052 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 14.1% above the Texas state average.
Physicist Pay in Austin: What to Expect (2026)
Austin offers a median physicist salary of $160,052, which is $19,816 above the Texas state average of $140,236. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Austin pays above average for this role.
Austin's cost of living is 105% 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 Austin spans from $81,900 at the 10th percentile to $249,900 at the 90th percentile — a $168,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $86,100, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $231,000. As a major metro area with a population of 978,908, Austin typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Physicist Salary in Austin by Experience
In Austin, an entry-level physicist earns around $86,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $231,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Austin, TX
| Percentile | Austin |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $81,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,400 |
| Median (50th) | $160,052 |
| 75th Percentile | $204,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $249,900 |
Physicist Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Austin
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Austin and the surrounding Texas 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 Austin may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Austin
Browse open physicist positions in Austin, TX: