Physicist Salary in Arlington, Virginia
The median physicist salary in Arlington, VA is $201,208 per year, which is 32.0% above the national median and 26.9% above the Virginia state average.
Physicist Pay in Arlington: What to Expect (2026)
Arlington offers a median physicist salary of $201,208, which is $42,681 above the Virginia state average of $158,527. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Arlington pays above average for this role.
However, Arlington's cost of living index is 132%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $201,208 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $152,430. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Arlington should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for physicists in Arlington spans from $102,960 at the 10th percentile to $314,160 at the 90th percentile — a $211,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $108,240, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $290,400. With a population of 238,643, Arlington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Arlington by Experience
In Arlington, an entry-level physicist earns around $108,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $290,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 132% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Arlington, VA
| Percentile | Arlington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $102,960 |
| 25th Percentile | $142,560 |
| Median (50th) | $201,208 |
| 75th Percentile | $257,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $314,160 |
Physicist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Arlington
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Arlington and the surrounding Virginia 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 Arlington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Arlington
Browse open physicist positions in Arlington, VA: