Physicist Salary in Houston, Texas
The median physicist salary in Houston, TX is $146,333 per year, which is 4% below the national median and 4.3% above the Texas state average.
Physicist Pay in Houston: What to Expect (2026)
Houston offers a median physicist salary of $146,333, which is $6,097 above the Texas state average of $140,236. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Houston pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Houston's cost of living is 96% 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 Houston spans from $74,880 at the 10th percentile to $228,480 at the 90th percentile — a $153,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $78,720, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $211,200. As a major metro area with a population of 2,304,580, Houston typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Physicist Salary in Houston by Experience
In Houston, an entry-level physicist earns around $78,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $211,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Houston, TX
| Percentile | Houston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $74,880 |
| 25th Percentile | $103,680 |
| Median (50th) | $146,333 |
| 75th Percentile | $187,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $228,480 |
Physicist Salary in Other Texas Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Houston
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Houston 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 Houston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Houston
Browse open physicist positions in Houston, TX: